Imagine standing at the foot of the Pyramids in the morning and dipping your toes into the turquoise waters of the Red Sea by the afternoon. This is the reality of Ain Sokhna.
Located just a 90-minute drive from Cairo, Ain Sokhna (Arabic for "Hot Spring") is the capital's favorite coastal escape. It transforms the Red Sea from a distant destination into an easily accessible day trip or weekend retreat. Famous for its pristine sandy beaches, calm crystalline waters, and the dramatic backdrop of the Eastern Desert mountains meeting the sea, Sokhna offers the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury convenience.
For travelers using Tourzstore, Ain Sokhna is the ideal way to add a relaxing beach break to a culturally intensive Cairo itinerary without the hassle of extra airports.
A: Ain Sokhna is approximately 120 km (about 75 miles) east of Cairo. On the modern highway, the drive typically takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your starting point in Cairo and traffic.
A: It is okay, but manage your expectations. Sokhna is better known for sandy swimming beaches than vibrant coral reefs. While you can find some marine life, serious divers usually prefer Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. However, for a casual snorkel in clear water, it is still enjoyable.
A: absolutely. This is one of the most popular ways to visit. Many tours on Tourzstore offer pick-up from a Cairo hotel in the morning, a full day accessing a resort beach and lunch, and drop-off back in Cairo by evening.
A: Ain Sokhna is a year-round destination. The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer the most comfortable temperatures (around 25°C - 30°C). It is very popular in summer for Cairo residents escaping the city heat. It is also a great winter sun destination, though the water might be brisk for swimming from December to February.
A: Not exactly in the traditional sense. Ain Sokhna is stretched along the coast and is composed mostly of gated resorts, hotels, and private villa compounds. The main "attractions" outside of your chosen resort would be the new Galala City area up on the mountain or the Porto Sokhna complex for restaurants and shops.