Within easy reach of Hurghada, the Giftun Islands are a popular destination for boat trips. Twin desert islands offer crystalline blue water and sandy beaches, while offshore there are some of the best diving and snorkelling sites in Egypt. The Giftun Islands National Park was established in 1955 to protect the abundant marine life and birds.

There are a handful of beach clubs on the islands which have been developed sustainably, keeping the environmental impact to a minimum. You can enjoy your castaway experience on a day trip from Hurghada knowing that conservation is taken seriously. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency has approved only low-key development, ensuring the environment is protected, yet visitors benefit from great facilities like beach restaurants and comfy loungers.

The warm, shallow waters around the islands are a haven for almost 800 different species of fish. Pop on a snorkel and mask to see the underwater world in close-up, either straight from the beach or at an offshore snorkel stop, reached by boat. Vibrant coral reefs surround the Giftun Islands and the proximity of deep water means you might see some larger species including rays, octopus, moray eels and possibly even turtles and dolphins.