By Amira Elhamy
Photo credit: Amira Elhamy
Our dear readers:
Despite the tough circumstances that the tourism sector is experiencing in Egypt, The Middle East Observer (MEO) team is keen to promote the beautiful touristic areas in Egypt.
In this article, we will take you on a tour to uncover the beauty of one of the most magical places in Egypt, Marsa Alam.
Marsa Alam is located on the western shore of the Red Sea in south eastern Egypt. It has recently become an increasingly popular holiday destination, as well as, a development site particularly following the inauguration of Marsa Alam International Airport in 2003.
Marsa Alam is located 700 kilometers south of Cairo and 280 kilometers south of Hurghada. The city is famous for its unmatched coral reefs and diving spots.
Abu Dahab beach is one of the most renowned beaches around Marsa Alam. It is well known for its rich and diversified marine wildlife.
Kite Surfing, wind surfing, Birds watching, desert trips, fishing and diving are the most common activities that you will enjoy in Marsa Alam.
Around 108 kilometres south of Marsa Alam, lies the village of Hamata which has a tiny population of 300 people. The distinctive characteristic of Hamata village is that it is the only spot in Egypt that has Mangrove trees.
Mangrove are actually special kinds of trees that grow in saline coastal sediment habitats in the tropics and subtropics. They require a number of physiological adaptations to overcome the problems of high salinity.
They are found in the middle of the sea in Hamata village, however the sea level is actually very low there. You will have to walk until the sea water is a couple of inches above your ankles to reach the mangrove trees, which are wide, strong and embracing.
Hamata with its open view of the sea and the mountains surrounding the bay is an ideal spot to chillax and detox away from Cairo.
Nature in Hamata is quite simple which even makes it more attractivg. The eyes see the sunrise that greets the sea every morning and the smart crab hiding away when it detects human presence.
There are also many marine birds which are constantly trying to catch small fish by the sea shore.
Many bedouins live Around the bay in Hamate. They live and work around the coast. Women and their children design ornaments, and sell beads jewelry.
Their smiling welcoming faces will greet you and they will show you their products. You will find it irresistible to buy a souvenir to remember the place, where you first saw the mangrove trees, and you will not see it anywhere in Egypt except in Marsa Alam.
