Turtle Season in Marsa Alam

Imagine witnessing a ancient marine ritual: a sea turtle lumbering onto a moonlit beach to lay her eggs, or later in the season, seeing tiny hatchlings make their frantic dash to the sea. Marsa Alam is one of the best places in the world to experience this magic, thanks to its pristine beaches and protected bays.

This complete guide for 2025 will tell you everything you need to know to plan your visit during turtle season responsibly, ensuring these magnificent creatures are protected for generations to come.

When is Turtle Season in Marsa Alam?

The season spans a long period, with two key phases:

  1. Nesting Season (Late May – Late August): This is when female turtles come ashore at night to dig nests and lay their eggs.
  2. Hatching Season (Late July – October): After about 60 days of incubation, the eggs hatch, and the baby turtles begin their journey to the ocean.

Prime Viewing Months: For the best chance to see both nesting and hatching activity, plan your trip for July or August.

Top Spots for Turtle Watching in Marsa Alam

1. Abu Dabbab Bay (The Champion)

This protected bay is world-famous for its resident population of Green Turtles and is one of the few places where you might also spot the incredibly rare Dugong. The shallow, calm waters make it perfect for snorkeling, and turtles are often seen grazing on seagrass just meters from the shore.

  • Best for: Snorkeling with turtles in their natural habitat; high probability of sightings.
  • How to get there: A short drive from most Marsa Alam hotels. Cascia Taxi can drop you right at the entrance.

2. Samadai Reef (Dolphin House)

While famous for dolphins, the sandy beaches of this protected lagoon are also a known nesting ground for turtles. Access to the beach is often restricted during nesting season to protect the turtles, but boat tours from the marina sometimes offer guided viewings.

  • Best for: Combining a dolphin swim with potential turtle nesting sightings (from a respectful distance).
  • How to get there: Boats depart from Port Ghalib Marina. We provide reliable transfers to the marina.

3. Other Protected Beaches

Many of the resort beaches south of Marsa Alam, especially those near Wadi El Gemal National Park, are also vital nesting sites. These areas are often monitored and protected by local conservation projects.

The Cascia Taxi Advantage for Your Turtle Adventure

Visiting these sensitive areas requires careful planning and punctuality. Here’s how we make your turtle-watching trip seamless:

  • Early Morning/Late Evening Transfers: The best times for turtle activity are often outside normal tour bus schedules. We provide flexible, private transfers for sunrise or late-night beach visits.
  • Respect for the Environment: We support responsible tourism and will get you to the right spots without disturbing the natural habitat.
  • Local Knowledge: Our drivers know the best access points and current conditions at Abu Dabbab and other locations.
  • A Quiet Approach: Unlike large, noisy tour buses, our discreet arrival helps maintain the peaceful environment these sensitive creatures need.

🐢 Ready for a magical and responsible encounter? Book your quiet, reliable transfer to Abu Dabbab Bay with Cascia Taxi here!

Your Guide to Responsible Turtle Watching

DO:

  • Keep your distance (at least 10-15 feet from nesting turtles and hatchlings).
  • Observe quietly and minimize noise and light.
  • Use a red light if you must use a flashlight at night, as white light disorients turtles.
  • Snorkel responsibly: Don’t chase or touch turtles in the water.
  • Fill in any holes you make in the sand and remove all your trash.

DON’T:

  • Never use flash photography. It can scare turtles away from nesting or disorient hatchlings.
  • Do not touch or handle the turtles or hatchlings.
  • Avoid shining lights directly on them.
  • Do not disturb nests or mark their locations.

Frequently Asked Questions (2025 Edition)

Q: What is the best time of day to see turtles in Marsa Alam?
A: For snorkeling, early morning is best when the water is calm and the bay is quiet. For seeing nesting on the beach, you must go after dark with a licensed guide.

Q: Can I volunteer with turtle conservation in Marsa Alam?
A: Yes! Several local organizations and resorts run conservation programs. It’s best to contact them directly well in advance of your trip to inquire about volunteer opportunities.

Q: Is a guide necessary for turtle watching?
A: For beach nesting observation at night, a licensed guide is essential and often mandatory. For snorkeling at Abu Dabbab during the day, you can visit independently, but always follow the responsible guidelines.

Q: How can I get to Abu Dabbab Bay early in the morning?
A. Cascia Taxi specializes in early morning transfers for photographers and nature lovers. You can pre-book a pickup time that gets you to the bay as it opens, beating the crowds for a serene experience.

Conclusion: Be a Part of the Conservation Story

Witnessing a sea turtle in the wild is a profound and humbling experience. By choosing to visit responsibly and using a quiet, low-impact service like Cascia Taxi, you are directly contributing to the preservation of these ancient mariners.

Let us help you plan a trip that is not only unforgettable for you but also safe and respectful for the incredible wildlife of the Red Sea.

🚗 Book your responsible turtle-watching transfer today!