Marsa Matrouh Travel Guide
Matrouh is a hidden gem of Egypt and its beauty remains mostly unexplored by tourists. The coastal town, which is located on the Western coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is an important destination for all those seeking to explore the natural, cultural, and historical landmarks of Egypt. During your stay in Marsa Matrouh, you’ll be charmed by its white sandy beaches, lush green palm trees, and sparkling blue waters as well as the charming small villages scattered along the coast. If you are looking for tips about what to see in Matrouh and where to go, this article will help you plan your trip there.
The hidden treasures of Marsa Matrouh
Although Marsa Matrouh is a well-known destination among Egyptians, it remains relatively undiscovered by foreigners. The region has several hidden treasures that will make your trip extremely memorable. The most important one is the green oasis of Al-Qurs: one of the largest palm groves in the world. Many travelers visit Egypt to see the pyramids or explore the deep desert but few come to Matrouh to see this magnificent palm grove. Another hidden treasure of Matrouh is the great variety of wildlife that inhabits the region. The coast is home to several marine species including dolphins and sea turtles. If you are interested in marine life you should visit Corniche Beach to see the dolphins.
Hiking in the dunes of Marsa Matrouh
The vast dunes of Marsa Matrouh are home to one of the most beautiful deserts in Egypt. Although the Western Desert is not as famous as the eastern desert, the dunes of Matrouh are well worth exploring. The dunes are spread out over a large area, so you will have the opportunity to hike without bumping into other travelers. You can choose to walk or ride a camel through the dunes. If you decide to ride a camel, be sure to bring some water to share with your new friend. If you are more adventurous, you can also try sandboarding at the dunes of Abu Ghoural. This activity is not too difficult, but it is also recommended that you wear a helmet to protect yourself against falling sand.
Visiting the unique Temple of Ain el-Mudur
Ain el-Mudur is a small village located just west of Matrouh. The village is famous for the Temple of Ain el-Mudur—a place that dates back to the Greco-Roman era. It is believed that the temple was used as a place of worship for the god of fire. The temple consists of three large rooms with a beautiful gate and a courtyard. Another attraction in Ain el-Mudur is the great view of the Mediterranean Sea from the village’s mud-dredged hill. The village is also known for its fish and shrimp. If you are an art lover, you should also visit the village to see its colorful boats.
Seeing the breath-taking sunset at El-qantara Fortress
Built on a hill overlooking the sea, El-qantara Fortress is one of the main attractions of Marsa Matrouh. The fortress was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century to protect the city from invading ships. The fortress also served as a gathering place for the Ottomans and their troops as well as a place to store weapons and food. El-qantara Fortress is now a popular tourist destination, with many people coming to see the sunset from the top of the hill. Another attraction of the fortress is its small museum that exhibits war weapons and other historic artifacts. If you are visiting the fortress during the hot summer months, you may want to bring some water to stay hydrated.
Watching the colorful Fisherman’s Celebrations
Every October, the city of Marsa Matrouh hosts the colorful Fisherman’s Celebrations. During this time, the coastal city is filled with celebrations, music, and dance performances. The celebrations also include activities for children as well as food and other local products for sale. If you are visiting Marsa Matrouh during the Fisherman’s Celebrations, you should visit the celebrations. The celebrations are a great opportunity to see the unique culture of Matrouh and meet the locals. You can also buy some delicious local seafood from the fishermen’s boats that are docked on the sea.
Conclusion
Marsa Matrouh is an incredible destination for all visitors who want to explore the nature, history, as well as cultural aspects of Egypt. The city has many beautiful beaches and dunes as well as many interesting museums and festivals that you can attend during your stay. If you are planning to visit Egypt, don’t forget to add this charming coastal city to your travel plans.