Set against the crystalline waters of the Red Sea, Sandbox Festival is a three-day celebration of music, art, and adventure. Held in the chic resort town of El Gouna, the festival combines world-class electronic beats with a sun-soaked, beachside atmosphere, creating a unique playground for music lovers. From lively daytime stages to energising nights under starlit skies, every moment invites you to dance, connect, and immerse yourself in a world where music and community collide.

• Festival Dates: May 7-9, 2026
• Location: El Gouna, Red Sea, Egypt
• Lineup: A curated mix of international DJs and regional electronic talent spanning house, techno, melodic, and experimental beats
• Venue: Multiple beachfront and open-air stages with immersive production

Like a palace straight out of an Arabian dream, this resort is the ultimate relaxation destination. Nestled in the timeless village of El Gouna the Steigenberger Golf Resort El Gouna 5* has everything you need to enjoy some time away from your normal everyday. 

Play a round of golf on the large golf course or enjoy some time by the stunning blue lagoon with its own private beach. Guests will find plenty of time to swim in the pool and enjoy the view from their very own terrace overlooking the views from every angle. 

Bathed in soft natural light, the Premium Room blends cool greys, whites, and beiges with a serene, inviting atmosphere. King-size or twin beds in crisp cotton and a plush sofa promise comfort, while the private terrace offers sunbed seating and views of the golf course, glimmering lagoons, or pools.

The Junior Suite offers complete serenity with ample space and a newly remodelled design adorned with tiled floors, a separate living area and stunning amenities. Enjoy the view on the furnished terrace overlooking either the lagoon, pools, or 18-hole golf course.

This is a bed and breakfast stay.

Choose to upgrade to half board at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)

This hotel offers two truly spectacular large pools and two children’s pools so that everyone can enjoy a dip after a day in the warm Egyptian sun. Choose your favourite pool as you enjoy either the proximity to the Fairways Restaurant for some afternoon snacks or the view of the expansive lagoon and the large golf course. 

Set against the crystalline waters of the Red Sea, Sandbox Festival is a three-day celebration of music, art, and adventure. Held in the chic resort town of El Gouna, the festival combines world-class electronic beats with a sun-soaked, beachside atmosphere, creating a unique playground for music lovers. 

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for the modern traveller. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy a connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family, with no risk of going over the limit.

Note: 2GB of internet data represents around 25 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 2 to 3 hours of video streaming / social networking/video calls.

Experience 90 minutes of pure relaxation with a blissful escape into the world of spa indulgence. Immerse yourself in the soothing warmth of the hammam and let a rejuvenating massage melt away your stress. Enjoy a serene oasis where tranquil ambience and expert care transport you to a state of complete tranquillity, offering a revitalizing retreat in the heart of Egypt.

Discover the enchanting Mahmya Island, a tropical haven just off the coast of Hurghada. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters with two magical snorkelling stops in a protected nature reserve, and savour a delectable lunch in this idyllic paradise.

Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard a semi-submarine and unveil the wonders of the Red Sea. Delight in breathtaking underwater views from the observation deck, then dive into the crystal-clear waters for a snorkelling adventure among vibrant fish and colourful coral reefs.

Set sail on an enchanting adventure aboard a classic pirate ship for a full day on the Red Sea. This guided excursion includes snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, a delicious lunch, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages served throughout the day. Immerse yourself in the unforgettable experience of a pirate-themed sea voyage!

Dive into the heart of the Egyptian desert with an exhilarating quad safari, guided by a local expert. Explore breathtaking landscapes, feel the rush of off-road driving, and uncover the desert's hidden secrets for an unforgettable adventure.

Embark on an unforgettable quad adventure through the Egyptian desert, and savour a delectable barbecue dinner under a starlit sky. Delight in a captivating folklore performance, then cap off your evening by gazing at the celestial wonders through a telescope, immersing yourself in the magic of the desert night.

Embrace a rare and enchanting opportunity to journey through time with a day trip from Hurghada to Cairo, where the wonders of ancient civilization await. Lose yourself in the spellbinding history of Egypt as you stand before the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza and the majestic Sphinx. Let your senses be captivated by the priceless treasures housed within the Egyptian Museum, the true guardian of the nation's ancient secrets.

Discover the marvels of ancient Egypt on an enchanting bus excursion to Luxor. Wander through the majestic Temples of Karnak, Luxor, and Hatshepsut, and be mesmerized by the timeless splendour of the Valley of the Kings.

Set against the crystalline waters of the Red Sea, Sandbox Festival is a three-day celebration of music, art, and adventure. Held in the chic resort town of El Gouna, the festival combines world-class electronic beats with a sun-soaked, beachside atmosphere, creating a unique playground for music lovers. 

Comprised of lagoons, islands and shore beaches, El Gouna is the perfect place for a holiday by the beach. Packed with activities, sports, and places to unwind, this is truly a Red Sea paradise. This gated community has a low crime rate, making it one of Egypt’s safest destinations. 

Must-sees:

• Abu Tig Marina: A scenic waterfront area lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops.
• Zeytouna Beach: A laid-back beach and top snorkelling spot with soft sand, clear water, and a long wooden pier extending into the sea.
• Mangroovy Beach: A pretty, open beach, popular with kite surfers due to its steady winds.
• Downtown El Gouna: Discover a mix of Egyptian and Mediterranean architecture with pedestrian-friendly streets, small shops, and local restaurants, perfect for an evening stroll.

Culinary culture:

While El Gouna is an international resort town with plenty of European-style cafés and fine dining, there are plenty of spots to enjoy authentic Egyptian flavours. Given its Red Sea location, El Gouna has excellent seafood. Think grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari, served up with tahini, rice, and fresh bread. 

Dive deeper:

Dive into the depths of the Red Sea and discover wrecks, beautiful coral reefs and fascinating sea life in dive sites all around El Gouna, and discover what makes the Red Sea one of the world’s most popular diving destinations. Diving lessons are available from El Gouna’s nine local dive centres, where you can get professional training before heading out on a guided dive.

Good to know:

Cheap and quick, tuktuks are the easiest way to get around the local area, while water taxis provide a scenic way to move between lagoons and beaches. Many restaurants and shops accept cards, but smaller places and tuk-tuks often require cash. The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP).

This sunny destination enjoys a year-round tropical climate, making it ideal for both winter sun or a summer getaway. The shoulder season (March-May and September-November) offers warm and sunny days, with June-September hot and dry. Seek the sparkling waters of your hotel pool, icy cocktails, or the refreshing air-conditioning of your room between sunbathing and exploring.