Hurghada Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide
Summer (June – September): Intense heat marks this period. Daytime temperatures frequently go over 35°C (95°F) and often hit 40°C (104°F) or higher. The sun shines with immense power, making midday outdoor activities a challenge. Humidity stays low, giving some relief from the dry heat. Sea temperatures during these months become very warm, from 28-30°C (82-86°F), making water sports enjoyable. Rainfall is nearly non-existent, bringing clear skies.
Autumn (October – November): Autumn marks a comfortable change. Temperatures span 25°C to 35°C (77-95°F). The intense summer heat lessens, but the weather stays warm enough for beach activities and water sports. Sea temperatures stay perfect for swimming and diving. Humidity levels stay low, making for pleasant days and evenings.
Each season holds its own set of conditions for visitors.
Consider your priorities when choosing your Hurghada visit time. If comfort for land excursions is paramount, winter months are preferred. If water activities and value are your focus, the shoulder seasons or even summer present excellent opportunities.
(Oct – Apr, peaks Christmas/New Year/Easter)
Ideal weather for almost all activities. Comfortable temperatures for sunbathing, diving, and land excursions. Most comfortable conditions for exploring beyond the resort.
Higher prices for flights and accommodation. Popular attractions and dive sites often crowded. Early booking is a good idea for this period.
(May, September)
Good weather, though temperatures begin to climb in May and stay hot in September. Fewer crowds than high season. Often slightly lower prices for good value. Sea remains wonderfully warm for all water activities.
Temperatures increase, especially in May and September, making midday desert trips or extensive walking less comfortable.
(June – August)
Lowest prices for flights and accommodation. Minimal crowds, leading to a peaceful experience. Sea temperatures are excellent for water sports, offering welcome relief from the heat.
Extremely hot temperatures make daytime land-based activities very uncomfortable. Some local businesses may have reduced hours or close.
Diving and Snorkeling are excellent year-round. Water visibility and warmth are highest from May to November. Cooler months (December-February) still offer good visibility and marine life, but a Wetsuit provides comfort.
October to May provides the most comfortable temperatures for extended time on the beach.
Early morning or late afternoon/evening trips are best, especially from May to September, to avoid midday heat.
Winter months (November-February) are ideal for excursions to historical sites inland. Summer temperatures for such trips can be extreme.
Heatstroke and dehydration are risks, especially in summer. Always drink plenty of water.
Strong winds occasionally impact boat trips or make beach days less comfortable by stirring up sand.
The region does not experience monsoons or hurricanes.
Regulations can vary based on your nationality.
Many nationalities qualify for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), obtainable directly at Hurghada International Airport for USD 25, valid for 30 days. Citizens of over 70 countries can apply for an e-Visa online via the Official Egyptian e-Visa portal or VisaHQ, which is highly recommended for faster airport processing. Citizens not eligible for VoA or e-Visa must apply at an Egyptian embassy or consulate. The Sinai Only Visa is not valid for Hurghada.
Your passport must hold at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date from Egypt. Carry a printout of your e-Visa confirmation or ensure your physical visa is affixed. Immigration officers may request proof of a return or onward ticket and accommodation booking. Passport-sized photos are generally not required for tourist visas but are useful for unforeseen needs.
Applying for an e-Visa before you travel simplifies your arrival process at Hurghada Airport. It saves time and removes the need to handle currency for the visa fee immediately after a long flight.
Costs vary greatly depending on your travel style, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resort stays.
The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), often denoted as LE (Livre Égyptienne). One Egyptian Pound divides into 100 piastres. Exchange rates change. Before your trip, check the current official bank rate. Always use official banks or exchange offices for exchanging currency to avoid complications and ensure fair rates.
Banks and official exchange offices (Forex) provide the best rates. ATMs are widely available throughout Hurghada. These offer a convenient way to get local currency. Avoid exchanging large amounts at the airport; rates there might be slightly less favorable. Credit cards accept payments in resorts, larger restaurants, and established shops. Smaller local shops, street vendors, and taxi drivers prefer cash. Carry enough cash for daily needs.
Stays in hostels or basic guesthouses. Eats local street food. Uses microbuses for transport. Enjoys free activities like beach time and walking.
Daily total: $30-70 USD
Accommodation: $10-25 USD
Stays in comfortable 3-4 star hotels. Dines at mid-range restaurants, mixing local and international cuisine. Uses taxis or ride-sharing apps. Includes organized snorkeling trips or desert safaris.
Daily total: $110-250 USD
Accommodation: $40-100 USD
Stays in 5-star resorts or luxury villas. Dines at fine dining or exclusive resort restaurants. Uses private transfers. Engages in private diving tours or exclusive experiences.
Daily total: $370-1000+ USD
Accommodation: $150-500+ USD
| Category | Budget | Luxury |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $10-40 | $150-500+ |
| Meals | Street food: $1-3 | Fine dining: $40-80+ |
| Attractions | Beach time: Free | Diving trip: $60-100+ |
No specific vaccinations are required for entry unless from a Yellow Fever risk country. In such cases, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is needed.
Consult a travel health clinic or your doctor (4-6 weeks before departure). Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio) should be current. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are strongly recommended. Hepatitis B, Rabies, and Cholera may also be advised.
Mosquitoes can be present. Use Insect repellent. Consider Permethrin-treated clothing for desert excursions.
Traveler's Diarrhea:
A very common ailment. Drink only sealed Bottled water. Avoid ice unless certain it comes from purified water. Consume food cooked thoroughly and served hot. Peel all fruits. Consider carrying Imodium and oral rehydration salts.
The intense Egyptian sun presents a significant risk. Use high-SPF Sunscreen (reapply often). Wear Wide-brimmed hats and Sunglasses. Stay hydrated with plenty of bottled water. Avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM).
Hurghada is a diving hub. Only dive with reputable, certified dive centers. Ensure equipment is well-maintained and instructors possess proper certifications. Always follow safe diving practices.
Hurghada offers private hospitals and clinics for tourists. Facilities include El Gouna Hospital, Nile Hospital, and International Hospital Hurghada. Pharmacies are plentiful and well-stocked.
Tap water in Hurghada is generally not safe for direct consumption. Stick to sealed Bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, and making ice. Consider a LifeStraw for added security.
Exercise caution with street food. Choose freshly cooked and hot food. Avoid salads washed with tap water, unpeeled fruits, and raw seafood from questionable sources. Look for busy local places.
Hurghada is generally considered a safe destination. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas like markets (El Dahar) or busy tourist spots.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. It should cover medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation (which can be very costly), trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability. Ensure your policy covers any activities you plan to do, like scuba diving. Research reputable providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing, or compare options through Insubuy. For flight compensation, AirHelp might be useful.
General Emergency: 122 (Police), 123 (Ambulance), 180 (Fire).
126 (specifically for tourist-related issues).
Keep contact details for your country's embassy or consulate in Cairo. Some may have honorary consulates in Hurghada.
