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Day Trips from Hurghada

Day Trips from Hurghada

Hurghada Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide

Accessible Locations

El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay, and Safaga are prime spots for quick getaways from Hurghada.

These towns offer varied experiences, from luxurious resorts to tranquil beaches and local charm.

Transportation Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber/Careem) serve El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay.
  • Hotel transfers and shuttle services are often available for nearby resorts.
  • Local microbuses offer a budget option for travel to Safaga.
  • Private cars with drivers arrange customized trips to destinations.

Excursion Planning

Trip Styles Compared

Organized tours offer ease for complex trips, while independent travel suits closer destinations.

Choosing Your Way

  • Organized tours provide transport and guides for Luxor or Cairo.
  • Independent travel offers flexibility for El Gouna or Sahl Hasheesh.
  • Consider logistics for longer, independent journeys.

Suggested Trip Durations

Each destination offers a distinct experience, from quick escapes to full-day adventures.

Planning Your Time

  • Half to full-day visits for El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, or Makadi Bay.
  • Luxor requires a full-day, typically 12-14 hours travel and visit time.
  • Cairo is often a very long day trip or better as an overnight stay.

Natural Escapes

The Red Sea and surrounding desert boast stunning natural beauty for various excursions.

Explore protected marine parks and vast desert landscapes near Hurghada.

Explore Nature's Wonders

  • Giftun Islands National Park for exceptional snorkeling and diving.
  • Pristine white sands on Giftun for beach relaxation.
  • Eastern Desert for stark and beautiful safari tours.
  • Red Sea underwater world offers unparalleled beauty for marine life.

Cultural Excursions

For exploring Egypt's historical and cultural roots, excursions from Hurghada access world-renowned sites.

  • Luxor, 'the world's greatest open-air museum', features Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings.
  • Cairo is home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.
  • Significant ancient religious sites are found in Luxor and Cairo.
  • Important Islamic and Christian sites are present in Cairo.
  • Day trips to Luxor are highly recommended for ancient history enthusiasts.
  • Cairo visits are often flying day trips or better as overnight stays due to travel.
  • Consider local interactions away from typical tourist zones for insights.
  • Embrace opportunities to learn about traditional Bedouin culture.

Planning Tip

Booking tours through a reputable provider streamlines logistics and offers expert guidance for historical sites. Consider using GetYourGuide for easy day trip booking.

Multi-Day Extensions

For a comprehensive Egypt experience, extend your itinerary beyond Hurghada.

Luxor 2-day, 1-night

Explore East and West Banks in depth, with sunset felucca rides or hot air balloon options.

Cairo 2-day, 1-night

Comfortably see the Pyramids, Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, plus Islamic Cairo.

Nile Cruise 3-4 days

Combine beach holidays with ancient history, sailing between Luxor and Aswan.

Liveaboard Diving Safari

Serious divers find unparalleled opportunities to explore remote Red Sea sites.

Diving Beyond Day Trips

  • 3-7 day liveaboard trips access pristine dive sites.
  • Explore famous wrecks and remote marine parks.
  • Encounter diverse marine life in secluded locations.

Logical Next Destinations

Beyond Hurghada, Egypt offers further unique experiences.

Seamless Transitions

  • Luxor/Aswan for Nile River culture and temples.
  • Sharm El Sheikh/Dahab/Marsa Alam for diverse Red Sea diving.
  • Cairo for the capital's historical and city life.

Transportation Connections

Flights connect Hurghada to Cairo and Luxor swiftly.
Comfortable Go Bus services link major cities.
Begin Nile cruises from Luxor or Aswan.
Coordinate flights to your cruise embarkation point.
Long-Term Stay Recommendations: Consider renting a furnished apartment or villa in Hurghada or El Gouna for a slower pace.
Engage with local life and explore activities at your leisure.

Travel Insight

  • Planning these day trips and extensions transforms your Hurghada visit.
  • It broadens your exploration of Egypt's diverse offerings.
  • Experience the stunning underwater world and timeless historical landscapes.
  • Tailor your journey to balance relaxation with adventure and cultural immersion.
  • Create lasting memories across different facets of Egypt.

Airport Services

services and local financial practices for a smooth journey.

Airport & Flight Services

Lounge Access

Priority Pass offers access to independent airport lounges globally, enhancing your travel comfort.

Flight Compensation

Compensair helps travelers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Baggage Services

Airport facilities assist with baggage handling, lost and found, and general information points.

Money & Banking

  • Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency.
  • Exchange offices and banks available for currency exchange.
  • Major credit cards accepted in hotels and larger establishments.
  • ATMs are widely distributed across Hurghada for cash access.
  • ATMs are conveniently located at airports, hotels, and malls.
  • Major banks like National Bank of Egypt and HSBC have branches.

Local Shopping & Souks

  • Bargaining is common and expected in local markets.
  • Approach bargaining good-naturedly, viewing it as a friendly exchange.
  • Agree on a price before committing to a purchase.
  • Souks are most in the evenings, offering a lively atmosphere.
  • Support local artisans by purchasing authentic crafts.
  • Enjoy people-watching and the unique ambiance of traditional markets.

Accessibility Support & Services

Visual Impairments

Limited dedicated services are available; personal assistance is often advised.

Hearing Impairments

Specialized services are limited; consider booking through tour operators catering to specific needs.

Mobility Aids

Private pre-booked transfers are the most practical option for getting around Hurghada.

Financial Insight

Carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds for local purchases and tips. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but cash helps for smaller transactions.