When we look at our statistics — and we do so regularly — one thing is clear: German-speaking guests make up more than half of everyone who visits us. Germany 37%, Switzerland 11%, plus Austria. Together, that’s a solid majority. And it’s no coincidence.
In this article, we’ll look at why Germans, Austrians, and Swiss specifically choose El Gouna as their kitesurfing destination — and why they keep coming back year after year.
Direct Flights From Germany — 4 to 5 Hours and You’re at the Spot
This is probably the most practical reason. From most German airports — Frankfurt, Munich, Dusseldorf, Berlin, Hamburg — you fly to Hurghada in approximately 4 to 5 hours. Direct flight, no connections. Depart in the morning, stand on the beach in the afternoon.
From Hurghada to El Gouna, it’s then 20-30 minutes by car. We offer airport transfer for €35-40, so the entire logistics are simple and painless.
For comparison — if a German wanted to go to a quality kite spot with warm water and reliable wind, alternatives like Tarifa, Dakhla, or Zanzibar mean either a longer journey or more complicated connections. El Gouna is simply the closest.
VDWS Certification — What Germans Want
In Germany, VDWS (Verband Deutscher Wassersport Schulen) is the standard. It’s not just a piece of paper — it’s a system that German kitesurfers understand and trust. When someone in Germany learns kitesurfing, they ask: “Do you have VDWS?”
We offer VDWS certification for €40 as an add-on to our kite courses. You can take the exam directly with us. We teach according to IKO methodology by default (Lukas is an IKO Head Instructor since 2009), but we’ll issue a VDWS certificate if you want one — and most German-speaking guests do.
Why does it matter? Because with a VDWS card, you can easily rent equipment in Germany or anywhere in the world. It’s an internationally recognized proof of your abilities.
German-Speaking Instructors — But Capacity Is Limited
This is an important point we state honestly: we have German-speaking instructors, but not unlimited. During peak season (September-November, March-May), they’re in high demand — because over 50% of our guests speak German.
If you want a guarantee of instruction in German, book early. During peak season, that can mean weeks or even months ahead. That’s not marketing, it’s reality.
The alternative? All our instructors speak English, many also other languages (7 languages total). But we understand that for someone learning a new sport who needs to understand safety instructions, their native language is simply more comfortable.
El Gouna Isn’t Typical Egypt
This is something Germans who’ve been here say most often: “El Gouna is different.” And they’re right.
El Gouna is a gated resort. It’s clean, safe, organized. It has its own hospital, supermarkets, restaurants, bars. Infrastructure works. There’s no chaos on the streets that you might know from other Egyptian cities.
For Germans who are used to order and reliability, this matters. It’s not a question of stereotypes — it’s simply the fact that when you plan a vacation and invest money, you want to know what you’re getting. In El Gouna, you do.
Organized Kite Spot with Clear Structure
Our spot on the north of El Gouna has been operating since 2016 — it’s the last base in the north, meaning unlimited space for downwind riding. The lagoon is 2-3 km wide, with a sandy shallow bottom, divided into 3 zones by level.
We have a rescue boat, 25 instructors during peak season, walkie-talkie communication during lessons. Flysurfer and Levitaz equipment — 250+ kites from 2.5 to 21 m², over 70 boards. This isn’t improvisation, it’s a system.
Kitepass costs €10 per day, equipment storage from €13 per day to €900 per season. Everything has its price and rules — and that’s what Germans appreciate.
Facilities for the Whole Day — Not Just Sport
Our spot isn’t just about kitesurfing. We have a restaurant right on the beach with food and cold drinks. A kids’ playground for families. A coworking space with air conditioning and a sea view for those who need to work.
Many German guests come for longer stays — 2-4 weeks — combining sport with work. Morning kite, afternoon laptop, evening restaurant in El Gouna. It works.
Why They Keep Coming Back?
80-90% of our guests are returning customers. That number speaks for itself. But what specifically draws them back?
- Trust: They know the spot, they know the instructors, they know what to expect. No surprises.
- Community: After years, the same faces meet on the spot. Friendships form.
- Value for money: Equipment, facilities, conditions — at a price that makes sense. Basic I course costs €465 for group or €695 for private — 8 hours, walkie-talkie, IKO certification included, optionally VDWS for €40.
- Reliability: Wind blows, lagoon is shallow, instructors are pros. Year after year.
We’ve been operating since 2004. In El Gouna’s north since 2016. Lukas and Andrea Vogeltanz are co-owners since 2022. We’ve been here a long time and plan to stay.
How It Works Practically
If you’re from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland and considering a kitesurfing holiday, here’s a simple plan:
- Book a flight to Hurghada (HRG) — direct flights from most German airports.
- Order a transfer — €35-40, we pick you up at the airport.
- Book your course or equipment — through our booking page or by email.
- If you want a German-speaking instructor — book as early as possible. The sooner, the more certain.
And if you don’t know when to go — read our seasonal guide where we break down conditions month by month.
Conclusion
Germans don’t love El Gouna by accident. It’s a combination of practical things — close, direct, safe, organized — and things that are hard to measure: community, trust, the feeling of knowing where you’re going and what you’ll find there.
We’re glad that over half our guests speak German. And we do everything to make them come back — with quality equipment, a professional approach, and spot facilities that work.
See you at the spot.