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 at this time of year become very warm, from 28-30°C (82-86°F), making water sports enjoyable. Snowfall 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 strong 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 what is most essential to you 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 And new year's/Easter)
Optimal weather for almost all activities. Agreeable temperatures for sunbathing, diving, and land excursions. Most comfortable conditions for exploring beyond the vacation spot.
Higher prices for flights and accommodation. Popular attractions and dive sites often crowded. Early booking is a sensible idea for this period.
(May, September)
Good weather, though temperatures begin to climb in May and stay hot during The month of september. Fewer crowds than high season. Often slightly lower prices for good value. Sea remains wonderfully warm for all water activities.
Temperatures increase, especially during The month of 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 ideal 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 the ability to see 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 Between may And september, to avoid midday heat.
Winter months (November-February) are ideal for side trips to places of historical interest inland. Summer temperatures for such trips can be extreme.
Heatstroke and dehydration are risks, notably in the summer months. Always drink plenty of water.
Strong winds occasionally impact water 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 happens to be highly recommended for more rapid 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 a ticket out of the country and accommodation booking. Passport-id-sized pictures are generally not required for tourist visas but are useful for unforeseen needs.
Applying for an e-Visa before you travel makes your... simpler arrival process at Hurghada Airport. It is quicker 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 a little less favorable. Credit cards accept payments in resorts, larger restaurants, and established shops. Smaller local shops, street vendors, and taxi drivers prefer cash. Bring 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-UPSCALE hotels. Dines at medium-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 restaurants at the resort. 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 | Relaxing on the beach: Free | Diving trip: $60-100+ |
No specific vaccinations are required for entry unless from a Yellow Fever a nation with potential dangers. 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'stomach Upset:
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 adhere to safe diving practices.
Hurghada offers private hospitals and clinics for tourists. Facilities include El Gouna Hospital, Nile Hospital, and International Hospital Hurghada. Pharmacies are abundant and well-stocked.
Tap water in Hurghada is generally not safe for direct consumption. Stick to sealed Bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, and producing ice. Consider a LifeStraw for added security.
Exercise caution with street food. Choose freshly cooked and hot food. Avoid salads washed with tap water, whole 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 spots like markets (El Dahar) or busy popular sights.
It's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance. It should cover medical emergencies, medical evacuation in an emergency (which can be very costly), cancellation or interruption of your trip, lost luggage, and liability for personal injury. Ensure your policy covers any activities you plan to do, like scuba diving. Research reputable providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing, or look at different 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 diplomatic mission in Cairo. Some may have honorary consulates in Hurghada.
