Marsa Nakari Village belongs to a different tradition from the big all-inclusive resorts that dominate the Red Sea coast: the village-style stay, where the sea is the main attraction and the buildings are modest, low and simple. This kind of property appeals to divers, snorkelers and independent travelers who are happy with a clean room, a shared dining area and a short walk to the water, and who would rather spend their budget on boat trips and dives than on a large pool complex. If you want waterslides, a nightly show and a wide choice of restaurants, look at the big resorts in this market. If you want quiet, stars and a day built around the reef, this is the sort of place to consider. As with any small property, facilities are limited and details should be confirmed when you book.
Location
The property is on the Marsa Alam coast, in the quieter stretch where the desert comes down to the water and the nearest town is a drive away. That isolation is part of the appeal, but it also means you will eat most meals on site and plan transport in advance. Ask about airport transfer time, because it can be long for southern properties, and about whether excursions and dive trips leave from the site.
Rooms and style
Expect simple rooms in low buildings, in the style of a beach camp rather than a hotel, with air conditioning or fans depending on the room type. Check the exact room type, bathroom arrangement and bedding before you book, and the board basis, which in places like this is often half board or full board because there is nowhere else to eat. Bring a flashlight for walking at night and a light layer for the evenings, which can be cool in winter.
Who it suits
Divers, snorkelers, nature lovers and travelers on a budget who are comfortable with a basic setting. It is less suited to guests who want entertainment, a spa or luxury, and families should consider how comfortable younger children will be with the setting. The reward is time on or in the water, and a calm, uncrowded atmosphere that the larger resorts cannot offer. Dugongs and turtles are wild, so treat sightings as a bonus.
Practical tips
Marsa Alam has few shops, cash machines or pharmacies away from the main resort areas, so bring what you need, including sun protection, reef shoes, a rash vest and any medication. Winter and spring are the most pleasant seasons, and summer is very hot. If you want day trips to Sataya Dolphin House or Wadi El Gemal, arrange them early, since boats and permits depend on conditions. Read recent traveler comments for the current state of rooms, food and the house reef.
Why stay here
- ✓Village-style layout
- ✓Coastal village setting
- ✓Simple rooms in low buildings
- ✓Shared dining on site
- ✓Reef-focused setting
- ✓Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere
- ✓Dive and boat trips can be arranged
- ✓Dark skies away from towns
Good questions
Is it a luxury resort?+
No. It is a simple village-style stay. Check the room type and board basis when you book.
Is it good for diving?+
The setting suits divers and snorkelers. Ask what dive and boat services are offered on site.
Will I need a car?+
The coast is remote, so arrange transfers and excursions in advance and expect to eat on site.
