Forsan Island: Lake Timsah's Hidden Island Escape in Peaceful Egypt

If you’re looking for a peaceful and luxurious island escape in Egypt, Forsan Island is Lake Timsah's best-kept secret in Ismailia.

Lake Timsah is where life finally slows down in Egypt. There are no pyramids, no crowds, no bustling street vendors. Just shimmering blue waters, lush greenery, and the occasional lazy-eyed crocodiles – don’t worry, you won’t see them often.

Forsan Island on Lake Timsah is a private-island-meets-hidden-gem kind of place. Think peaceful picnics, quiet swims, and a sense of “I can’t believe more people don’t know about this place.”

For those craving a breezy, off-the-grid retreat without actually going off the grid, Forsan Island ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a long weekend escape from Cairo.

Make sure to base yourself at Mercure Ismailia Forsan Island Hotel, where you’ll be greeted by spacious rooms and suites, a pristine private beach, and a pool that practically begs you to dive in.

The hotel has everything you need to enjoy life on Lake Timsah, blending modern comfort with authentic Egyptian energy. Sip mint tea at the cosy Oriental Café, enjoy local flavours at the on-site restaurant, or if you’re here on business, make use of the well-equipped meeting rooms with a view. 

Located on the edge of peaceful Forsan Island, the hotel has all the things: the views, the vibes, and a luxurious ambience that makes you want to toss your itinerary in the lake and order room service.

Although the idea of staying cosied up at the hotel is seriously tempting, you’ll definitely want to venture out to explore Lake Timsah and downtown Ismailia. So we’ve put together the perfect guide to help you make the most of your stay.

Unlike busy Egyptian cities like Cairo or Alexandria, Lake Timsah is the kind of place where bird-songs replace city sirens, and we're here for it.

Lake Timsah, which literally means “Crocodile Lake” in Arabic, is nestled in northeastern Egypt in the Ismailia Governorate (we know the word “crocodile” keeps coming up, but don’t worry – Lake Timsah crocodiles are truly shy). This natural saltwater lake is a shallow body of water that links the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, just at the midpoint of the Suez Canal.

Forsan Island is the star of the show on Lake Timsah. This little-known haven is wrapped in lush palm gardens, marshes, and postcard-worthy views. It’s the perfect luxury island escape where you can discover Egypt’s quieter side. Although it offers serene seclusion, it’s still close enough to town to keep things convenient.

Whether you’re in the mood to soak up the luxury-by-the-lake lifestyle, or you want to add a touch of adventure to your stay, Forsan Island on Lake Timsah offers all of those experiences.

If you ask us, the best way to start off your day is stretched out on a lounger by the private beach or sparkling pool at Mercure Ismailia Forsan Island Hotel. Go for a swim at sunrise or soak up the afternoon sun on this calm, captivating lake.

When hunger strikes, dive right into local cuisine without leaving the hotel. We highly recommend freshly caught fish from Lake Timsah, paired with flavourful Ismailia mezze. If you’re not into seafood, you can also try comforting regional dishes by the pool from the chic onsite restaurant.

For a change of pace, wander into the heart of Ismailia, which is about 20 minutes away by car. Check out the coastal town, where you can stroll along canal-side boulevards or browse the lively local shops. You’re also just steps away from the Suez Canal Museum and the local fish market. 

When it’s all said and done – no trip to Ismailia is complete without tasting Egypt’s most beloved treasure: the famous Ismailia mangoes. Sweet, juicy, and bursting with tropical flavour, these mangoes are unlike any other in Egypt – or anywhere else in the world, for that matter. Their rich aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture have earned them cult status.

Every summer, the city comes alive with mango tourism as visitors flock to the local souq, where crates of these golden delights are stacked high and sellers proudly offer samples. But these mangoes rarely need sampling because they practically sell themselves.

If you're thinking of trying these local delicacies, consider getting in touch with Shagie Farms on Instagram. Located on Ismailia-Suez Desert Road, Shagie is a gorgeous, lush farm whose founders came up with the idea of mango tourism in Egypt. The family who owns it will gladly show you around and maybe even treat you to a traditional breakfast.

Every year, the farm owners participate in the annual Mango Festival in Ismailia. Yes, mango is that important here. Nearly a quarter of the farmland in Ismailia is devoted to this juicy treasure. While the city’s economy also taps into fishing, trade, and industry, mango season feels like the real main event.

After a great day out, head back to the private island and enjoy the calm waters, where you can take a boat ride across Lake Timsah for a different kind of escape. Glide through peaceful shallows, spot migrating birds, and catch a lakeside sunset. Life doesn’t get better than this.

Ready to trade the city buzz for some lakeside bliss? We don’t blame you.

There’s no need to rush here. This is the kind of trip where you can slow down and let the days unfold naturally. Take your time soaking up the calm breeze of the lake, and explore downtown Ismailia when the mood strikes. Pace yourself, unwind, and let the island work its magic.

Getting to Forsan Island is a breeze – it’s just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Cairo, or you can hop on a train to Ismailia for an easygoing ride. Just make sure to check the train schedule at Ramsis Train Station in Downtown Cairo.

The best time to visit Ismailia is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and the lake breeze feels extra fresh. Summer isn’t a bad idea either, since you’ll be able to cool off in the pool or private beach at Mercure Ismailia Forsan Island Hotel.

Pack modest clothing for exploring the town (you’ll blend right in at the souq), plus your favourite swimwear for pool or beach-side lounging.

Egyptian pounds are the currency here, but some people accept cards and dollars as well. Just make sure you carry small change. Arabic is the main language in Egypt, so a smile paired with a simple “shukran” (thank you) goes a long way. With a little local etiquette and the right essentials, you’re all set for an unforgettable private island escape.