Hurghada Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide
Hurghada International Airport (HRG) stands as the main gateway. This modern airport handles a high volume of international and domestic flights. HRG benefits from extensive service by numerous charter and scheduled airlines, mainly from Europe, like easyJet, TUI, Condor, Pegasus Airlines, and Wizz Air. Direct connections are available from hubs like London, Frankfurt, Paris, and Moscow. For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
Hurghada International Airport features two terminals. Facilities include duty-free shops, restaurants and cafes, currency exchange counters, ATMs, and car rental desks. Visa on arrival desks are clearly marked. The airport provides basic services for waiting and transit.
Prices for flights are highest during the high season (Oct-Apr).
Direct flights mainly from European cities. Other regions require connections via Europe or Cairo.
Some tour operators arrange shared shuttle services for clients with package holidays.
Duty-free shops for last-minute souvenirs or gifts.
A selection of restaurants and cafes for snacks or meals.
Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available.
Buses provide a comfortable and economical way to travel to and from Hurghada within Egypt. Go Bus is a popular and reliable intercity bus service. It operates frequent, comfortable, air-conditioned services connecting Hurghada with major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Go Bus offers different classes of service, with varying levels of amenities. East Delta Bus is another company, generally less luxurious but often with cheaper fares, serving similar routes.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed with your national driving license to drive in Egypt. The minimum age for car rental typically spans from 21 to 25. Major international car rental companies, like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar, have offices in Hurghada. Local rental agencies also operate. For car rentals, consider DiscoverCars.com.
Hurghada's coastal location means sea travel also forms a part of its transportation network, mainly for domestic connections. A high-speed ferry service has historically connected Hurghada (Port Ghalib) to Sharm El Sheikh across the Red Sea. The reliability of this service has varied, with operations sometimes intermittent. Hurghada functions as a port of call for some international cruise lines.
No specific exit fees are typically levied on departing tourists from Hurghada International Airport. Any departure taxes are generally included in the price of your airline ticket. For international flights, arrive at Hurghada International Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. For domestic flights, plan to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
A high-speed ferry service has historically linked Hurghada (Port Ghalib) to Sharm El Sheikh across the Red Sea. The reliability of this service has varied, with operations sometimes intermittent. Check the current operational status with local tour agencies or ferry operators before planning your travel based on this option. Hurghada functions as a port of call for some international cruise lines that explore the Red Sea. Passengers disembark directly into the city, with organized excursions usually waiting.
Immigration procedures at seaports match airport procedures if you arrive internationally. However, most sea arrivals in Hurghada are domestic ferries or cruise passengers who have already cleared immigration at a previous port. Taxis and pre-arranged transfers are available at Hurghada Port to transport you to your accommodation or other parts of the city.
Pre-arranged transfers from Hurghada Port help transport to your accommodation.
Always confirm the ferry service status with local agencies before making plans.
Hurghada's position on the Red Sea makes sea travel an integral part of its appeal.
No specific exit fees are typically levied on departing tourists from Hurghada International Airport. Any departure taxes are generally included in the price of your airline ticket. For international flights, arrive at Hurghada International Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in, security procedures, and any unforeseen delays. For domestic flights to Cairo or other Egyptian cities, plan to arrive 1.5-2 hours before your departure time.
Hurghada Airport offers duty-free shops where you can purchase last-minute souvenirs or gifts. A few food and beverage outlets provide options for a snack or meal while you wait. There are also lounges available for certain passengers. While facilities are somewhat limited compared to major international hubs, they are sufficient for waiting comfortably.
Arrive early at the airport to avoid stress and allow for all necessary procedures.
Utilize online check-in to reduce time spent at airport counters.
Have liquids and electronics ready for security screening.
