Ain Soukhna

Ain Soukhna is on the west shore of the Gulf of Suez. Most passengers use it as the departure point for an organised tour to Cairo.

This port is mainly visited by “Clipper”-style cruise ships.

Hotels and cruise schedules.

Ain Soukhna is also called Ain Sukhna, Ein Soukhna, Ein Sukhna, Ain Sokhna and el-Soukhna. On Egypt’s Red Sea Coast, it is often referred to as a town, though it is not really one. Its Egyptian name means “hot spring”, referring to sulphur springs on nearby Gebel Ataqa.

It is a popular weekend destination with fine beaches, coral reefs, dolphins, fishing and water sports.

The region runs from just south of Suez for about sixty kilometers down the coast. Along its coast-hugging road are a port, resort complexes, independent restaurants, petrol stations and other tourist businesses. Its development is unsurprising, as these are the closest beaches to Cairo, one of the world’s largest cities.

The port of Ain Soukhna lies 55 km south of Cairo.

Important: many companies offer reliable excursions in Egypt, but the ship will wait only for passengers on its own excursions. Carry a mobile phone and the ship’s telephone number in case of delay.

St. Anthony’s in the Eastern Desert is considered the world’s oldest working monastery, founded in honour of the Saint credited with founding monasticism. Much has recently been restored, and the ancient monastery of St. Paul is nearby.

Experience Cairo’s chaos, from ancient pyramids to the treasures of the Cairo museum; it is likely to leave you utterly awe-struck.

A cruise on the Nile.

The Pyramids just outside Cairo are essential to a visit.

Souvenir shops readily accept US dollars and the Euro.

Language: Arabic.

Internet facilities exist, though many use Arabic keyboards.

Sahara means desert in Arabic, so avoid saying “the Sahara desert”.

Egypt’s national holidays.