Things To Do
in Ra’s Ghārib
Ra’s Ghārib is a quiet coastal town on the Gulf of Suez known for its stark desert scenery and fishing traditions. Nestled between golden dunes and turquoise waters, it offers an off-the-beaten-path base for coastal and desert adventures. The town has a small, welcoming community and a pace that invites authentic Egyptian experiences away from mass tourism.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, dramatic sunsets, and panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided snorkeling tour at the beautiful El Gouna reefs. As you glide through the clear waters, marvel at the vibrant coral formations and the diverse marine life swimming around you. After a refreshing swim, enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café, savoring local fruits and pastries.
In the afternoon, venture to the nearby Giftun Islands for some relaxation and sunbathing on pristine beaches. Take part in beach games or simply enjoy a good book while listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. As the sun begins to set, capture stunning photos of the glowing horizon over the sea.
Return to Ra's Ghārib and indulge in a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant. Try local specialties such as koshari or grilled seafood while enjoying the lively atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Embark on an exhilarating desert safari early in the morning, where the golden sands of the Eastern Desert await. Experience the thrill of dune bashing in a 4x4 as you navigate the stunning landscape. Stop for a moment to appreciate the breathtaking views and snap some photographs of the unique desert formations.
After lunch at a Bedouin camp, immerse yourself in the local culture by trying your hand at traditional crafts like carpet weaving or pottery. Explore the surrounding area on a camel ride, allowing you to experience the desert at a leisurely pace while taking in the stunning scenery. As the sun begins to dip, prepare for a spectacular sunset over the dunes.
As night falls, gather around a campfire for a traditional Bedouin feast under the stars. Enjoy live music and dancing while sharing stories with fellow travelers. The experience of sleeping in a tent surrounded by the tranquil desert will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal desert experience with genuine local life
- Quiet base for exploring the Gulf of Suez and nearby desert scenery
- Fresh seafood and cost-effective lodging compared with more touristy Red Sea towns
- Stunning sunsets and wide-open skies ideal for photography
- Limited hustle-and-bustle nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Fewer directly accessible attractions; some services require local guidance
- Longer travel times to major airports and larger cities
- Occasional water and power disruptions in very remote periods
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please (masculine)
- "Min fadlik" - Please (feminine)
- "Ayna al-suq?" - Where is the market?
- "Hal tatakallam al-Ingleeziya?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bikam hatha?" - How much is this?
- "Law samaht" - Excuse me
- "Shukran jidan" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Ra’s Ghārib
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over fishing boats and quiet quay activity makes for atmospheric seaside photographs.
Long, rugged coastline with dramatic horizons, ideal for sunset silhouettes and sea-scape shots.
Desert remnants against a vast sky provide stark, textured contrasts for architectural and landscape photography.
Candid street photography opportunities of vendors, buyers, and daily commerce.
Food in Ra’s Ghārib
Ra’s Ghārib Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught reef or sea bass grilled simply, served with lemon, herbs, and a side of salad or rice.
Must-Try!
A fragrant fish and rice dish with tomato, onion, and spices inspired by coastal fishing towns.
Green leaf stew commonly served with rice or bread; can be prepared vegetarian or with light broth.
Everyday Egyptian staple of lentils, pasta, rice, and tomato sauce; great for a budget-friendly meal.
Slow-cooked fava beans served with olive oil, lemon, and herbs; a hearty vegetarian option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls with freshly caught seafood, where you can watch the vendors and sample grilled seafood right by the quay.
Casual spots along the promenade offering fried fish, taameya, and simple salads—perfect for quick lunches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Light, respectful clothing is advised; shoulders and knees should be covered in religious sites or more traditional settings.
Ask permission before photographing people. A handshake is common; use polite language and greetings when entering shops or homes.
Tea or small offers of hospitality are common; accepting such offers is polite and part of local etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in Ra’s Ghārib
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated if service is good. Small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are common but not obligatory.
Cash in Egyptian pounds is widely accepted. Many hotels and some restaurants in Ras Ghārib accept cards; ATMs are available in town or nearby hubs. Carry small denominations for markets and stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with strong sun; humidity is low but there is intense heat. Hydrate, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons. Sea breezes can be pleasant, but beaches can be crowded on weekends.
Mild to cool days with comfortable temperatures; evenings can be chilly by the water. This is a good time for coastal walks and photography with clear skies.
Pleasant temperatures and little rainfall; coastal and desert landscapes are particularly photogenic in softer light.
Warm days with cooling evenings; good for outdoor activities and sunset photography as days shorten.
Ra’s Ghārib at Night
Hiking in Ra’s Ghārib
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Low-altitude hikes with sea views and expansive desert panoramas, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Inland routes offering panoramic overlooks and photographic opportunities during golden hours.
Airports
How to reach Ra’s Ghārib by plane.
Major regional airport with intercity and international connections; typically the closest major air gateway for Ras Ghārib travelers.
Egypt’s largest international hub; useful for connections if you’re combining Ras Ghārib with a broader itinerary in the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Arabic-speaking Egyptians with a strong fishing and desert-dwelling tradition.
Residents involved in coastal trades and mining-related activities in the region.
A small number of foreign visitors and temporary residents attracted by the remote coastline.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Egypt; local teams and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Coastal communities engage in fishing and casual boating; snorkeling and sea activities are enjoyed when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ra’s Ghārib.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy staples like molokhia, koshary without meat, falafel-style taameya options, fresh breads, salads, and fruit. When ordering seafood-free dishes, ask for oil-and-butter-free preparations if needed and confirm there’s no cross-contamination with shellfish.