Kitesurfing in Marsa Alam, Egypt
Marsa Alam, located on the western shore of the Red Sea in Egypt, is a hidden gem for kite surfers looking for an exotic and relatively uncrowded spot. Casa Mare lagoon lays just below Port Ghalib and 52km north of Marsa Alam's city center. With its stunning natural beauty and reliable winds, it's a destination that promises adventure and excitement for kitesurfing enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about kitesurfing in Marsa Alam.
What to Expect?
Marsa Alam is a paradise for those seeking a blend of sun, sea, and sand. The town is renowned for its beautiful coral reefs and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for both kitesurfing and diving. Expect warm weather, clear skies, and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxation after a thrilling day on the water.
Wind
The Red Sea trade wind blows from the north (side-shore) year-round, but its strength inland is boosted by the thermal gradient — hot desert air rising inland creates a pressure difference that accelerates onshore flow. Marsa Alam’s open desert plateau and mountain alignment funnel this wind toward the coast, reinforcing it around midday. So the most reliable wind is present between 9am and 3.30pm.
The wind ranges from 15 to around 22 knots year-round. With the prime season being May through October.
Kitesizes
The specific kite sizes to use can vary based on the day's wind conditions. However, it's advisable to bring a 9m and 12m for 75kg riders.
Kiteseason
The prime kitesurfing season in Marsa Alam is typically from May through October. In the other periods it still very windy but there can be 3 days of no wind in between windy periods, so it's advised to stay 2 weeks in this period to have sufficient kitessessions.
Water Conditions
The water conditions in Marsa Alam are quite diverse. Near the beach and at the reef, the water is shallow during low tide, making it accessible for beginners. Between these areas, the water is consistently deep enough, ranging from head to hip high. The lagoon, known as Casa Mare lagoon, offers flat to choppy water, catering to different kitesurfing preferences.
Launch Area
The launch areas in Marsa Alam are generally spacious, but caution is needed due to the presence of bystanders. It's important to maintain an awareness of your surroundings to ensure a safe launch and landing.
Lessons & Gear
Marsa Alam is home to several kitesurfing schools that offer lessons for beginners and advanced riders. These schools provide rental gear as well, so if you don't want to travel with your equipment, you can easily rent high-quality gear on-site. The schools almost all have there own similar kitespot nearby Marsa Alam.
Hazards
While kitesurfing in Marsa Alam, be mindful of the following hazards:
- Water Hazards: Swimmers and reefs can pose potential dangers. Always stay alert and maintain a safe distance from these hazards.
- Beach Hazards: Bystanders can occasionally wander into the launch area, so it's crucial to be vigilant and communicate clearly when launching or landing your kite.
Level of Riding
Marsa Alam caters to all levels of kitesurfers. Beginners will appreciate the shallow areas during low tide, while more advanced riders can take advantage of the deeper waters and consistent winds to practice and perfect their skills.
How to Get There
Reaching Marsa Alam is relatively straightforward. The town is served by Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF), which offers flights from various international destinations. From the airport, it's a short drive to the main kitesurfing spots. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Hurghada and take a scenic three-hour drive south to Marsa Alam.