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Things to Do in Hurghada

Things to Do in Hurghada

Hurghada Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Hurghada is a premier destination for outdoor and marine adventures, driven by its unique geography where desert meets sea.

Hiking & Trekking

Routes & Difficulty

Dedicated hiking trails around Hurghada are limited. Some desert safaris may include short, easy walks or climbs for panoramic views.

Serious Trekking

For serious hiking in the Red Sea Mountains, specialized tours with experienced guides and proper gear are necessary. The terrain is rugged and less accessible.

Desert Safaris

Desert excursions often combine thrilling rides through dunes and wadis with a stop at a Bedouin camp for tea or dinner, and sometimes a camel ride.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Diving: World-renowned destination. Numerous dive centers offer courses (PADI, SSI), discovery dives, and daily trips to reefs and wrecks (like El Mina).
  • Snorkeling: Excellent from beaches (Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh) or organized boat trips to Giftun Islands for pristine coral gardens.
  • Windsurfing & Kitesurfing: Ideal conditions with consistent winds. Centers along the coast offer lessons and rentals.
  • Parasailing: Available on main beaches, aerial perspective of coastline.

Adventure & Adrenaline

  • Quad Biking/Buggy Safaris: Thrilling rides through desert dunes, often with Bedouin camp stop.
  • Camel Riding: Traditional desert experience, part of safaris or independently.
  • Jet Skiing: Available for rent at many beach and watersports centers.
  • Banana Boat/Tube Rides: Fun activities common at resorts and beach excursions.

Wildlife Encounters & Safaris

  • Dolphin House (Sha'ab El Erg): Known for frequent dolphin sightings; tours often swim with dolphins.
  • Dugong Sightings: Rare but possible further south of Hurghada (Marsa Alam).
  • Desert Wildlife: Small mammals like foxes or birds possible during quiet desert safaris.
  • Cycling Routes & Mountain Biking: Limited infrastructure; mostly within resort grounds or El Gouna paths.

Book Your Adventures

  • Discover and book excursions online.
  • Find diving, snorkeling, and safari tours.
  • Secure your adventure experiences in advance.
  • Visit GetYourGuide for booking options.

Important Considerations

Always choose reputable operators for water and desert activities. Check equipment condition and guide qualifications.

Cultural Immersion

Opportunities for cultural immersion in Hurghada exist, though they often require seeking out local areas or specific tours.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Some resorts or local tour operators offer basic Egyptian cooking classes.
  • Arabic Language: Formal classes for tourists are very limited. Informal learning from locals is common.
  • Learn a few phrases for better interaction.
  • Participate in local craft demonstrations if available.

Cultural Performances

Belly Dancing & Tanoura Shows

Traditional Egyptian performances often form part of evening entertainment programs at resorts or special dinner shows (Nile cruises, Bedouin desert evenings).

Bedouin Evenings

Desert safaris frequently conclude with a visit to a Bedouin camp, featuring traditional dinner and a show with music and dancing.

Local Celebrations

Major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha bring public celebrations and shifts in business hours.

Community & Language

Community-based tourism initiatives are less developed. Choosing local restaurants and shops in El Dahar directly supports the local community.

Cultural Events

Major Islamic holidays are observed, leading to public celebrations and shifts in business hours. These moments offer unique cultural insights.

Local Interaction

Engaging respectfully with locals offers the best chance to learn basic Arabic phrases. Locals often appreciate efforts to speak their language.

Relaxation & Wellness

Hurghada caters to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, specifically within its resorts.

Spa & Wellness

  • Most luxury resorts (Steigenberger, Rixos, Oberoi) feature high-quality spas.
  • Treatments include massages, body wraps, facials.
  • Saunas, steam rooms, and traditional hammams are often available.
  • Independent spas exist in Sakkala.

Natural Therapy & Yoga

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs in the immediate Hurghada area. Wellness options focus on resort-based facilities and treatments.

Yoga & Meditation

Some resorts offer daily yoga classes (beach or studios). Dedicated multi-day retreats are less common here.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not a prominent tourist offering.

Beach and Pool Clubs

Resort Amenities

Many resorts boast excellent pool areas and private beaches, equipped with comfortable loungers, cabanas, and attentive beach service.

Independent Clubs

Some independent beach clubs also exist, often requiring an entry fee but offering a relaxed atmosphere with music and food service.

Waterfront Relaxation

Enjoy the sun, sea, and serene environment directly from the beach or by the pool.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Hurghada offers a lively entertainment and nightlife scene, especially in its more modern areas.

Live Music & Venues

  • Live music mainly found within resort hotels and along Hurghada Marina.
  • Genres vary from Arabic music to international pop and live bands.
  • Some independent venues also host performances.
  • Check hotel schedules for specific acts.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Papas Beach Club Sakkala

Popular spot for beach parties and DJs, attracts a younger crowd.

Little Buddha Sakkala

Upscale lounge bar and club, known for stylish ambiance and music.

Resort Clubs

Many larger resorts operate their own discos or nightclubs, providing convenient entertainment options for guests.

Bar Districts & Pubs

Hurghada Marina and the Sakkala area feature concentrations of bars and pubs. No formal pub crawls, but easy to walk between venues.

Late-Night Options

Restaurants and shisha cafes often remain open late into the night, offering relaxed settings for conversation and enjoyment. A quieter alternative to nightclubs.

Theater & Performance Spaces

No dedicated theater venues exist in Hurghada. Performances are typically part of resort entertainment programs, featuring various shows and cultural acts.

Nightlife Safety Note

Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when out late. Use reputable transport.

Shopping & Markets

Hurghada offers diverse shopping from bustling traditional markets to upscale boutiques.

Traditional Markets

  • El Dahar Souk: The main traditional market for local goods, spices, clothing, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected.
  • New Marina Bazaar: Features more tourist-oriented stalls along the promenade, a relaxed shopping experience.
  • Authentic local goods at competitive prices.
  • Cultural immersion through shopping.

Artisan & Crafts

Local Craftsmanship

Some shops in El Dahar showcase local craftsmen, specifically for leather goods, basic jewelry, or hand-painted items.

Unique Items

Seek out these places for unique, handmade items.

Support Local

Support local economy by purchasing directly from artisans.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Papyrus scrolls (confirm authenticity, avoid banana leaves).
  • Alabaster figures.
  • Aromatic spices.
  • Traditional shisha pipes.

Luxury & Boutique

  • Found mainly within high-end resorts and at the Hurghada Marina.
  • Offer international brands, fine jewelry, and upscale fashion items.
  • Modern shopping experience with premium selections.
  • Ideal for high-quality purchases.

More Souvenirs

  • Cotton clothing and small pyramids.
  • Various Pharaonic-themed trinkets.
  • Local textiles and traditional garments.
  • Hand-painted items and local artwork.

Ethical & Practical Shopping

Ethical Shopping
  • Support local artisans and small businesses directly.
  • Wary of items from protected marine life (corals, large shells); illegal and harms ecosystem.
  • Ensure purchases benefit the local economy responsibly.
Shipping & Customs
  • For larger purchases (carpets, furniture), specialized companies arrange international shipping.
  • Confirm shipping costs and customs duties for your home country.
  • For 'antiques,' obtain official documentation. Strict rules apply to exporting genuine antiquities.

Shopping Overview

From bustling souks to modern boutiques, Hurghada offers a varied shopping experience for every taste and budget.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximizing Your Trip

  • Hurghada's blend of outdoor and cultural experiences creates rich memories.
  • Embrace marine adventures like diving and snorkeling.
  • Explore the desert with quad biking or camel rides.
  • Savor local cuisine and traditional dining experiences.

Tips for Enjoyment

  • Navigate neighborhoods for varied ambiances and attractions.
  • Capture stunning natural beauty and street scenes.
  • Discover unique souvenirs in local markets and boutiques.
  • Indulge in resort wellness and lively nightlife.