4-Day Egyptian Adventure: Exploring Hurghada

Hurghada, Egypt

4 days

Sunbeds on a sandy beach at sunrise
Camel lounging in the sand
Aerial view of the Red Sea resorts
Domes of the El Mina Masjid mosque
Wooden pier at Orange Bay beach

About Hurghada, Egypt

Experience the exotic allure of Hurghada, Egypt, a captivating coastal city along the Red Sea. Renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and diverse marine life, Hurghada is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Explore the vibrant underwater world, or bask in the sun on pristine sandy beaches. The city also offers a rich cultural experience with its bustling markets, traditional eateries, and historic sites. For adventure seekers, desert safaris on quad bikes or camel rides are a must. As the sun sets, indulge in a luxurious stay at one of the many high-end resorts, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Hurghada, a blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture, promises an unforgettable Egyptian holiday.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Red Sea and Hurghada's Marine Life

Morning

Start your day with a refreshing swim in the Red Sea. The crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit for any traveler.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch. Try dishes like koshari, ful medames, and shawarma for a taste of the local cuisine.

Afternoon

Visit the Grand Aquarium, where you can see a variety of marine species, including sharks and turtles. It's a great place for families and anyone interested in marine life.

Dinner

Have a seafood dinner. Hurghada is known for its fresh seafood, so don't miss the chance to try some.

Evening

Take a stroll along the Marina. The area is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a lively place to spend the evening.

Morning

Embark on a desert safari. Experience the thrill of dune bashing and get a glimpse of Bedouin life.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch in the desert. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings as you eat.

Afternoon

Visit the Sand City, a unique open-air museum that showcases impressive sand sculptures.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner. Try dishes like lamb tagine and mint tea for a taste of the local culture.

Evening

Experience a traditional Egyptian folk dance show. It's a great way to learn about the country's rich cultural heritage.

Morning

Go snorkeling in Giftun Island. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its abundant coral reefs and marine life.

Lunch

Have a beachside lunch. Enjoy the stunning views of the Red Sea as you eat.

Afternoon

Relax on the beach. The island's white sandy beaches and clear waters make it a perfect place to unwind.

Dinner

Have a barbecue dinner on the beach. The fresh seafood and the beautiful sunset make it a memorable experience.

Evening

Take a boat ride back to Hurghada. The ride offers stunning views of the city's skyline at night.

Morning

Visit the Coptic Orthodox Church. The church's beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it worth a visit.

Lunch

Enjoy a Mediterranean lunch. Try dishes like falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh for a taste of the region's cuisine.

Afternoon

Explore the local markets. You can find everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.

Dinner

Have a farewell dinner. Try some of the local specialties one last time before you leave.

Evening

Take a final stroll along the Marina. It's a great way to end your trip.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Red Sea

1
Red Sea

Famous for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life, the Red Sea offers excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

Beaches
Landmarks
Tours
Sand City

2
Sand City

Sand City is a unique open-air museum and a popular tourist attraction in Hurghada. It features impressive sand sculptures depicting various themes and historical events.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Giftun Island

3
Giftun Island

Giftun Island is a beautiful offshore island known for its pristine sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It's a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and boat tours.

Attractions
Beaches
Tours
Coptic Orthodox Church

4
Coptic Orthodox Church

One of the most significant religious sites in Hurghada, the Coptic Orthodox Church is a beautiful example of Coptic architecture with intricate designs and a peaceful atmosphere.

Religious Sites
Hurghada Desert

5
Hurghada Desert

The Hurghada Desert is a vast, arid landscape that offers stunning views and unique natural beauty. It's a popular destination for desert safaris, quad biking, and camel rides.

Attractions
Tours
Hurghada Grand Aquarium

6
Hurghada Grand Aquarium

An aquarium showcasing a variety of marine life.

Attractions
Museums
Hurghada Marina

7
Hurghada Marina

A bustling marina with a variety of shops and restaurants.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ful Medames

Ful Medames

A traditional Egyptian dish made from fava beans, oil, and spices. It's a staple breakfast dish in Hurghada and is often served with bread.

Koshari

Koshari

A popular Egyptian dish consisting of lentils, rice, pasta, and a spicy tomato sauce, topped with caramelized onions. It's a common street food in Hurghada.

Shawarma

Shawarma

A Middle Eastern dish that's also popular in Hurghada. It's made from thinly sliced cuts of meat, like chicken, beef, or lamb, rolled into a large piece of flatbread or pita.

Molokhia

Molokhia

A traditional Egyptian soup made from the leaves of the jute plant, chicken or rabbit, and spices. It's a common dinner dish in Hurghada.

Mahshi

Mahshi

A classic Egyptian dish made by stuffing vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini with a rice and herb mixture. It's a popular lunch or dinner option in Hurghada.

Ta'meya

Ta'meya

Egyptian version of falafel made from fava beans instead of chickpeas. It's a popular street food in Hurghada, often served in a pita with salad and tahini sauce.

Baba Ghanoush

Baba Ghanoush

A traditional Egyptian appetizer made from mashed cooked eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings. It's commonly served as a starter in Hurghada.

Om Ali

Om Ali

A traditional Egyptian dessert, similar to bread pudding, made with pastry, milk, and nuts. It's a popular sweet treat in Hurghada.

Egyptian Coffee

Egyptian Coffee

A strong, thick coffee with a foamy top, similar to Turkish coffee. It's a popular beverage in Hurghada, often enjoyed after meals.

Sugarcane Juice

Sugarcane Juice

A sweet, refreshing drink made from the juice of sugarcane. It's a popular thirst quencher in the hot climate of Hurghada.

Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus Tea

A traditional Egyptian drink made from dried hibiscus flowers. It's often served hot or cold in Hurghada, and is known for its deep red color and tart flavor.

Sahlab

Sahlab

A warm, creamy drink made from milk, sugar, and the powdered roots of the orchid plant. It's a popular winter beverage in Hurghada, often topped with cinnamon and nuts.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hurghada, Egypt is during the spring months of April and May or during the fall months of September and October. During these periods, the weather is warm but not overly hot, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months can be extremely hot and the winter months, while milder, can be a bit cool for activities like swimming and snorkeling.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 7

Sun

Coptic Christmas Day

January 25

Thu

Revolution Day January 25

April 10

Wed

Eid el Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid el Fitr Holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid el Fitr Holiday

April 25

Thu

Sinai Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 6

Mon

Spring Festival

June 16

Sun

Arafat Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 19

Wed

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 30

Sun

June 30 Revolution

July 4

Thu

Day off for June 30 Revolution

July 8

Mon

Muharram

July 23

Tue

Revolution Day July 23

July 25

Thu

Day off for Revolution Day July 23

September 16

Mon

Prophet Mohamed's Birthday

October 6

Sun

Armed Forces Day

October 10

Thu

Day off for Armed Forces Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Taxis are a common way to get around in Hurghada. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street or pre-booked. They are metered, but it's always a good idea to agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Microbuses are a popular and cheap way of getting around in Hurghada. They operate on fixed routes and you can get on or off anywhere along the route. They are usually crowded, but they offer an authentic local experience.

Renting a car is a good option if you plan on exploring Hurghada and its surroundings at your own pace. International and local car rental companies are available. Remember to drive on the right side of the road in Egypt.

Uber is available in Hurghada, offering a convenient and reliable way to get around. You can book a ride using the Uber app on your smartphone. It's a good option for those who prefer not to haggle over taxi fares.

Renting a bicycle is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Hurghada. There are several places where you can rent a bike, and many hotels also offer this service to their guests.

Public buses are the cheapest way to get around in Hurghada, but they can be crowded and confusing for tourists. They operate on fixed routes and have specific bus stops.

Private transfers are a convenient way to get around in Hurghada, especially for those traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage. You can book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel or for a day trip to the surrounding areas.

Boats are a great way to explore the Red Sea and its beautiful coral reefs. There are many boat tours available, offering snorkeling and diving opportunities.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency£ EGP

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 123; Fire: 180; Police: 122

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Hurghada, Egypt as a first time visitor

1

Egyptian Arabic is the most widely spoken language in Hurghada, but English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas.

2

The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

3

Tipping is customary in Egypt. It's known as 'baksheesh' and is expected in restaurants, hotels, and for services like guided tours.

4

Hurghada has a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 59°F (15°C) in winter to 95°F (35°C) in summer.

5

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts.

6

Hurghada is generally safe for tourists, but it's always important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

7

Bargaining is common in local markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.

8

Tap water in Hurghada is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

9

Hurghada is located in the Eastern European Time zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

10

Public transportation in Hurghada is limited. Taxis and private car hires are the most common ways to get around.

11

Hurghada's peak tourist season is from October to April, when the weather is most pleasant.

12

Hurghada has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

13

Egyptian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Try local dishes like ful medames (mashed fava beans) and kushari (a mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce).

14

Hurghada has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and beach parties.

15

Egypt requires a visa for most foreign visitors. Check the latest visa requirements before your trip.

16

Hurghada is known for its beautiful coral reefs. Don't miss the chance to go snorkeling or scuba diving.

17

The sun can be very strong in Hurghada. Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.

18

Hurghada has a modern hospital and several pharmacies, but it's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

19

Egypt uses the Type C and Type F plug. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

20

Respect local customs and traditions. Egyptians are generally friendly and hospitable, but it's important to be respectful of their culture.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

مع السلامة

Ma'a al-salama

Saying goodbye

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Making a request

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Expressing gratitude

Yes

نعم

Na'am

Agreeing or confirming

No

لا

La

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna al-hammam?

Asking for directions

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking the price of something

I need a doctor

أحتاج إلى طبيب

Ahtaj ila tabib

In case of a medical emergency

Help

مساعدة

Musa'ada

In case of an emergency

Water

ماء

Maa

Ordering water

Food

طعام

Ta'am

Ordering food

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

Asking for a taxi

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

Asking for a hotel

Airport

مطار

Mat'har

Asking for the airport

Can I use my credit card?

هل يمكنني استخدام بطاقتي الائتمانية؟

Hal yumkinuni istikhdam bitaqati al-i'timania?

Asking to use a credit card

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Swimwear

  • Beach cover-up

  • Sandals

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver’s license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and traveler's checks

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter and converter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel guide and map

  • Notebook and pen

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

Weather Conditions

Hurghada, Egypt is known for its hot desert climate, so it's essential to prepare accordingly. The city experiences high temperatures throughout the year, with the hottest months being June through September, where temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C). Even in the cooler months, from November to February, temperatures can still hover around 68°F (20°C), so lightweight clothing is recommended year-round. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, including sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat. The sun can be particularly intense, especially during the summer months. It's also important to stay hydrated, so always carry a bottle of water with you. Despite the high daytime temperatures, it can get quite cool in the evenings, especially in the winter months, with temperatures dropping to around 50°F (10°C). Therefore, it's a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Hurghada is located on the coast, so it can occasionally experience windy conditions. If you're planning on participating in water sports or beach activities, it's worth checking the local weather forecast for wind conditions. Lastly, while rain is rare in Hurghada, when it does occur, it can sometimes lead to flash floods. Always check the local weather forecast and heed any warnings or advisories. In summary, when visiting Hurghada, prepare for hot, sunny weather, but don't forget a jacket for cooler evenings and always stay informed about the local weather conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

23° / 12°

January is the coldest month in Hurghada, but it's still quite mild with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 23°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February

24° / 13°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, with lows of 13°C and highs of 24°C. The weather is pleasant, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

March

27° / 15°

In March, the weather starts to warm up with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. It's a good time to enjoy water sports and beach activities.

April

30° / 18°

April is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a perfect time to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Hurghada.

May

34° / 22°

May is quite hot with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C. It's an ideal time for sunbathing and enjoying the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea.

June

37° / 25°

June is one of the hottest months in Hurghada, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 37°C. It's a great time for swimming and snorkeling.

July

39° / 27°

July is the peak of summer in Hurghada, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 39°C. It's a perfect time for water-based activities and exploring the underwater world.

August

39° / 27°

August is equally hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 39°C. It's a great time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Hurghada.

September

37° / 25°

September sees a slight drop in temperature, with lows of 25°C and highs of 37°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places.

October

34° / 22°

October is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the local culture.

November

30° / 18°

November is a mild month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a good time to enjoy outdoor activities and desert safaris.

December

25° / 14°

December is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C. It's a perfect time to enjoy the festive season in Hurghada.

Did you know?

Did you know that Hurghada, Egypt was once a small fishing village and has now transformed into a bustling tourist hotspot?

1 of 10

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