viziteaza hurghada marina

What Can You Do in Hurghada, Egypt

If you're wondering what to do in Hurghada, Egypt, we share our experiences from our three visits and guarantee you won't get bored. There is a multitude of exciting activities that will make your stay unforgettable.

During our trips to Hurghada, we explored the following: Orange Bay island, Cairo with its famous pyramids, a short Nile cruise, visits to the papyrus factory and (old) Cairo Museum, a day safari, Hurghada city tour, visiting Luxor and nearby attractions, parasailing and more. So, if you are curious about what you can do in Hurghada, keep reading this article. We're sure you'll find something you like!

Below we will detail the activities carried out and provide you with useful information for booking trips in Hurghada.

If you're wondering what to do in Hurghada, Egypt, we share our experiences from our three visits and guarantee you won't get bored. There is a multitude of exciting activities that will make your stay unforgettable.

During our trips to Hurghada, we explored the following: Orange Bay island, Cairo with its famous pyramids, a short Nile cruise, visits to the papyrus factory and Cairo Museum, a day safari, Hurghada city tour, visiting Luxor and nearby attractions, parasailing and more. So, if you are curious about what you can do in Hurghada, keep reading this article. We're sure you'll find something you like!

Below we will detail the activities carried out and provide you with useful information for booking excursions in Hurghada.

Activities in Hurghada

In our list of activities in Hurghada, Egypt, you will mainly find excursions. We will also suggest sights in Hurghada that are worth visiting, that we did not manage to see, but would have liked to. An important aspect to remember is that you will not be able to participate in the tours every day, as it can be tiring. For example, if you plan to visit the pyramids, it will take up the whole day, and the next day you will be so exhausted that you will probably sleep a good part of it.

We will tell you what we did every day in Hurghada, Egypt.

Booking trips

To begin with, we note that everything is negotiable, including the prices of the tours. You can try to negotiate down to half the original price and go from there.

If the prices seem too high, you can book the tours with another tour operator. I had friends who used GetYourGuide and had better experiences than booking at a hotel. We'll post GetYourGuide deals for every trip we've done so you can see the costs and compare them to local guides if you're planning a trip to Hurghada, Egypt.

Day trip to Orange Bay, Hurghada

For the second day in Hurghada, we chose a day trip to the island Orange Bay. This is about an 8-9 hour experience that will take up your entire day, but it's well worth it.

In the morning, we were picked up from the hotel by a minibus and taken to Tito's marina. Depending on the travel agency through which you book your trip, the pick-up time may vary, but usually you should be ready at the reception or in front of the hotel. An important detail is that once you have paid for the trip, you will receive a ticket which you must have with you – this will be requested by the driver or guide.

The journey from the hotel to the port took approx 30 minutes, after which we boarded a comfortable and well-equipped vessel. On board, we were offered refreshments and the crew explained the day's schedule.

Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea

Before reaching the island, we made two stops for snorkeling. The Red Sea is famous for its spectacular coral reefs and diverse marine life, and we had the opportunity to swim with colorful fish and admire the underwater beauty. The instructors on the boat provided us with full equipment (masks, tubes and life jackets) and explained the safety rules before entering the water.

If you've never snorkeled before, don't worry! The guides are very friendly and give you all the necessary directions to enjoy this experience in a safe and relaxing way.

Relaxation on the dream beach of Orange Bay

After the snorkeling session, we continued our way to Orange Bay, an island that seems detached from one tropical postcard. Clear water, fine sand and exotic scenery create a perfect holiday atmosphere.

I spent approx two hours on the island, during which we relaxed on the sunbeds and enjoyed the cold cocktails and fresh fruit. On the island are also available wooden swings set in the water, perfect for Instagram photos!

If you want to do this trip, we recommend that you take sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and a towel, because the sun is very strong on the island.

Delicious lunch on the boat

Before returning to port, we were served with a buffet lunch on the vessel. The food was surprisingly good – we had a choice of local and international dishes including fresh fish, grilled chicken, salads and sides.

After lunch, we had time to relax on the upper deck of the ship, enjoying the sea breeze and the gorgeous scenery.

Excursion to Orange Bay it is definitely one of the most beautiful experiences you can have in Hurghada. If you like snorkeling, swimming or just want to relax on an island paradise, this trip is perfect for you.

➡ Recommendation: You can book this excursion through the hotel agency or through online platforms such as GetYourGuide, where you have the option to read reviews and compare prices before making a choice.

Cairo and Giza Pyramids Tour from Hurghada, Egypt

One of the most anticipated moments of our holiday in Hurghada was the trip to a day in Cairo to visit the famous ones Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum. Although it is a long and tiring trip, the experience is truly unique and worth every minute.

How do you get from Hurghada to Cairo?

For this trip, you have two options:

  1. By bus – This is the most affordable option, but it takes between 5 and 6 hours on meaning. Departure is very early in the morning (around 2:00-3:00 AM) and return is late in the evening.
  2. By plane – Much more comfortable, but more expensive. The flight takes approx 1 hour, allowing you to spend more time sightseeing in Cairo.

We chose the trip with BUS, because the price was much more advantageous.

First stop: The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

After a long and tiring journey, we arrived in Cairo, a busy but fascinating city. Our first stop was at Egyptian Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts.

Among the most impressive exhibits are the golden masks of Tutankhamun, the royal sarcophagi and various statues of the pharaohs. The museum also has a special room dedicated the mummies, but to enter here you have to pay an additional ticket.

➡ Useful tip: If you're a history buff, we recommend hiring a local guide to better understand the stories behind the exhibits.

Lunch with a view of the Nile

After visiting the museum, we took a break for lunch at a local restaurant located on the banks of the Nile. I had one varied buffet, with traditional Egyptian dishes, incl kofta, grilled chicken, rice and fresh salads.

The long-awaited moment: the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

After lunch, we set off towards the most awaited objective of the day – The Pyramids of Giza. When you see them for the first time, the feeling is overwhelming. The pyramids are huge and much more impressive than in the photos.

We had time to explore the area, take pictures and even go inside The Great Pyramid of Cheops (the ticket for the interior is paid separately).

Next to the pyramids, we also visited the famous Sphinx, carved directly into the rock. It is incredible to see this monument up close that has endured for thousands of years.

➡ Useful tip: If you want to take good pictures, try to get as close as possible to the pyramids and avoid the crowds in the tourist areas. Also, watch out for locals who offer you souvenirs or camel rides – sometimes they may ask for more money than you originally agreed upon.

Return to Hurghada

After exploring the pyramids, we boarded the coach again for the return trip to Hurghada. Fatigue and heat took their toll, so most of the tourists slept on the road. I got back to the hotel around 1 p.m 23:00, exhausted, but happy we got a chance to see one of those Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Is the trip to Cairo worth it?

Yes, but you have to be prepared for it very long and tiring day. If you want to visit the pyramids without spending hours on the road, the plane option is more convenient.

➡ Recommendation: If you want to book this excursion, compare the offers of local agencies with those on GetYourGuide to get the best price and the best conditions.

Desert Safari in Hurghada, Egypt

If you want to try something different from sea trips, desert safari it is an excellent choice. I booked this trip through a local agency and had a thrilling experience that included ATV ride, visit to a Bedouin village, a traditional dinner and an entertainment show.

The start of the adventure: ATV ride through the desert

After being picked up from the hotel and taken to the starting point of the excursion, we were offered Atv and protective equipment (helmet and face scarf). The guide explained the safety rules to us, and then we set off in one adrenaline filled adventure through the desert.

The ATV ride was one of the best moments of the trip! I drove approx 45 minutes, passing over sand dunes and admiring the spectacular landscape of the Egyptian desert.

➡ Useful tip: Wear loose clothing that covers your hands and feet, as the dust and sand kicked up by ATVs can become a nuisance. Also, don't forget to take your sunglasses and cover your face with a scarf to avoid inhaling the sand.

Visit to the Bedouin village

After the ATV ride, we ended up in a bedouin village, where we had the opportunity to see how the locals live in the middle of the desert. We were greeted with traditional tea, and the guide told us about the Bedouin customs and lifestyle.

We also had the opportunity to walk with the camels, a unique experience, especially if you have never tried this before.

➡ Useful tip: If you choose to ride a camel, be sure to set the price in advance to avoid unexpected costs.

Traditional dinner and desert show

In the evening, we were invited to a Bedouin style dinner, where we tasted traditional dishes such as kebabs, rice, fresh salads and Egyptian bread. Everything was served in a relaxed atmosphere under the starry sky.

After dinner, a show began with traditional dances, belly dance and a fire show, which was extremely spectacular.

Stargazing

The last part of the trip was a session of stargazing with special telescopes. Since there is no light pollution in the desert, the sky is absolutely incredible at night and the guides showed us the constellations and told us about astronomy.

Excursion of safari in Hurghada it's an experience not to be missed if you want to explore the desert and have some adventure. From ATV ride, at dinner under the open sky and stargazing, every moment was memorable.

➡ Recommendation: If you want to book this trip, you can compare prices between local agencies and online platforms such as GetYourGuide, where you also have reviews from other tourists.

Hurghada City Tour, Egypt

If you want to discover more than beaches and sea trips, we recommend one Hurghada city tour. This is a great way to see the less touristy side of the resort and get a better understanding of the local culture.

The trip generally lasts half day and includes visits to the city's main points of interest such as the El Mina mosque, the Coptic church, the port and the local market.

El Mina Mosque

The first stop on our tour was at El Mina Mosque, one of the most beautiful and impressive mosques in Hurghada. Located close to the harbor, the mosque is a superb example of Islamic architecture, with elegant domes and imposing minarets.

To enter, you must remove your shoes and wear appropriate clothing (women must cover their heads and wear clothing that covers their arms and legs).

➡ Useful tip: Even if you are not a Muslim, it is worth visiting this mosque to admire its beauty and to better understand the local culture.

The Coptic Church of Hurghada

After visiting the mosque, we went to Saint Shenouda Coptic Church, a Christian place of worship that offers a different perspective on religion in Egypt. This is one of the most important churches of the Christian community in the city and has a quiet and welcoming atmosphere.

The local market and bazaar in Dahar

Another highlight of the tour was fruit and vegetable market in Hurghada, located in the neighborhood Of course. Here we saw an impressive variety of exotic fruits, spices, teas and local products.

If you want to buy souvenirs, the bazaar in Dahar is the ideal place. You will find jewelry, perfume essences, papyri, oriental lamps and more. Don't forget that negotiation is common practice, so try to get the best price!

➡ Useful tip: If you want to buy spices, look for shops frequented by locals – they usually have more authentic products and better prices.

The harbor and promenade area

The city tour ended with a walk around the area the marina and on the promenade of Hurghada. This area is more modern, with stylish restaurants, cafes and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for ending the day with a coffee or fresh mango juice.

Is the Hurghada city tour worth it?

If you want to discover more than hotels and beaches, a Hurghada city tour it's an interesting experience. You will have the opportunity to see local life, visit historical sites and explore traditional bazaars.

➡ Recommendation: You can book this trip through a local agency or through platforms such as GetYourGuide, where you can find packages that include transport and a guide.

Parasailing in Hurghada, Egypt

If you want to try something for real exciting and have a spectacular view of the sea and the city of Hurghada, then parasailing it is an unforgettable activity. It is one of the most popular water activities in Hurghada and offers a great dose of adrenaline, but also a great opportunity to see the resort from a completely different perspective.

What is parasailing?

Parasailing involves a flight with a parachute attached to a speedboat, which lifts you above the water. You will be attached to a special harness and pulled by the boat, flying above the water at impressive heights, having an amazing view of the sea and the beaches of Hurghada. Although it is an adrenaline sport, it is relatively safe and accessible even to those with no previous experience.

How does it work?

After you arrive at your departure point (a marina or beach), you will be equipped with a harness and a parachute. An experienced guide will explain everything you need to know for a safe experience. Then the boat will begin to speed up and the parachute will gradually rise into the air. At first, you'll feel a strong flutter of wind, and then you'll relax as you soar high and enjoy the scenery.

The duration of the flight usually varies between 10 and 15 minutes, but the sensations experienced and the incredible landscape make this experience unforgettable.

➡ Useful tip: If you are afraid of heights, be sure to communicate this to your guide before you start. They will take the necessary measures to help you feel as comfortable as possible during the flight.

What will you see during the flight?

As you rise into the air, you will notice the whole Hurghada city and the crystalline sea a Red Sea. You will have a panoramic view of beaches, seaside hotels and nearby islands. The distance you will fly can vary, but in general, you will be at a height of 50-100 meters, which will give you an incredible feeling of freedom and a spectacular view of the region.

Is parasailing for me?

Although it is an activity that may seem scary, parasailing it is quite safe for most people. It does not require any previous training and is an accessible activity for beginners. However, if you're afraid of water or heights, you might want to think twice before booking this trip.

How to book a skydiving flight in Hurghada

If you want to try parasailing in Hurghada, I recommend you book a trip through it local agency or on online platforms such as GetYourGuide. Prices vary by agency and season, but generally a parasailing trip costs between 30-50 euros.

➡ Recommendation: Check the reviews of other tourists and make sure you choose a reliable company with proper safety equipment.

If you are looking for an unforgettable activity in Hurghada, parasailing it definitely deserves to be on your list. You will live o adrenaline filled adventure and you will have the opportunity to see Hurghada from a completely different perspective.

Submarine ride in Hurghada, Egypt

If you want to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea without diving, o submarine ride it's the perfect choice. This activity allows you to discover marine life in a unique and comfortable way, without ever setting foot in the water.

What is a submarine ride?

A submarine ride is an underwater excursion aboard a specially adapted submarine, with large viewing hardware that allows you to see fascinating underwater landscapes and observe fish and coral species from the Red Sea.

The duration of the excursion is usually approx 1 hour, and during this time, you will be accompanied by a professional guide who will explain everything you see and give you interesting information about the underwater ecosystem of the area.

What will you see during the walk?

Depending on where you are and the weather, the submarine ride will give you a chance to see colorful corals, tropical fish and, if you're lucky, even dolphin or turtle tours. The Red Sea is known for its impressive biodiversity, and this trip will give you an extraordinary glimpse of it.

One of the most spectacular moments is when the submarine arrives at the depth of about 20-30 meters, and you can clearly observe underwater life in a natural environment.

What should you know about submarine rides?

  • Safety: The submarine rides are extremely safe and are organized by local agencies using modern equipment. However, it is recommended that you follow all the guide's instructions and make sure you are comfortable before boarding.
  • Who can participate: This activity is suitable for the whole family, including BOYS and people who don't know how to swim. You don't need to have diving experience or feel comfortable in the water to enjoy the ride.
  • Price: The price for a submarine ride usually varies between 30 and 50 euros per person. Often, tours also include round-trip transportation from the hotel to the departure location.

How to book a submarine ride in Hurghada

You can book a submarine trip through local agencies or on platforms such as GetYourGuide or Viator, which offers packages for a variety of activities in Hurghada, including submarine rides. It is recommended to book your place in advance, especially in the peak season, to avoid crowds.

The submarine ride is a fascinating activity and unique in Hurghada, which gives you the opportunity to explore the underwater world without diving. If you want an unforgettable experience and want to see marine life of the Red Sea in a relaxing and safe way, you must not miss this excursion.

Visit Mini Egypt Park in Hurghada

If you want a unique and interesting activity, perfect for the whole family, then Mini Egypt Park is a great option in Hurghada. This is an open-air theme park that provides an overview of Egypt's most famous monuments and attractions, all recreated on a small scale.

What is Mini Egypt Park?

Mini Egypt Park is a park of miniature where replicas of the most famous Egyptian structures and monuments are on display, including The Pyramids of Giza, Karnak Temple, Hatshepsut's mausoleum, but also Base of the Pyramid and other historical attractions. The park offers an interesting combination of history, culture and recreation for tourists who want to discover more about Egypt in a different way.

What will you see at Mini Egypt Park?

In this park, you will have the opportunity to explore miniatures of iconic locations in Egypt, all of which are reproductions on a reduced scale. Among the most impressive attractions are:

  • The Pyramids of Giza – One of the biggest attractions of the park, where you will be able to see detailed replicas of the three pyramids and the Sphinx.
  • Karnak Temple – Another impressive miniature, which recreates one of the most famous temples in Egypt.
  • Hatshepsut's mausoleum – A monument dedicated to one of the most important figures of ancient Egypt.
  • Other historical structures – In the miniature park there are other emblematic buildings, which will help you better understand the culture and history of Egypt.

In addition to these miniatures, the park is also equipped with outdoor rides and relaxation areas where you can rest and enjoy the atmosphere.

What activities can you do here?

Mini Egypt Park is not only a place to visit miniatures, but also a place to learn. Interactive activities are organized here, and guides provide information about each individual objective. If you are into history or just want to learn more about the civilizations that lived in Egypt, this park will be a perfect place.

What to know before visiting Mini Egypt Park?

  • Length of visit: A trip to Mini Egypt Park takes approx 1-2 hours, so it is an ideal place for an afternoon activity.
  • Open daily: The park is open daily and entry tickets are affordable, priced at approx 10-15 euros per person.
  • Location: Mini Egypt Park is only a few minutes' drive from most hotels in Hurghada, making it easily accessible.

If you want to enrich your knowledge about Egyptian history and culture in an interesting and relaxing way, Mini Egypt Park is definitely a destination worth visiting. It's a perfect family activity and the monumental replicas will fascinate you, giving you a global view of Egypt's top attractions.

Visit the Valley of the Kings in Egypt

Valley of the Kings is one of the most famous destinations in Egypt and is an unforgettable place for history and archeology lovers. Located near Luxor, this valley is the burial place of most of the pharaohs of ancient Egypt and is a place you should not miss when visiting Egypt.

What is the Valley of the Kings?

Valea Regilor is a complex of royal tombs located near the city of Luxor, on the west bank of the Nile. Here are the tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs from the 18th Dynasty to the 20th Dynasty, including those of some famous pharaohs, such as Tutankhamun and Ramesses II.

Each tomb in the Valley of the Kings is decorated with murals and hieroglyphics, which presents scenes from the pharaoh's life and from Egyptian mythology, having the role of guiding his soul in the afterlife. In total, there are more than 60 tombs in this valley, and some of them are open to the public for visits.

What will you see in the Valley of the Kings?

During your trip, you will explore ancient tombs, some of them being extremely well preserved, and others having outstanding frescoes and wall paintings. Among the most important tombs that can be visited are:

  • Tomb of Tutankhamun – Probably the most famous tomb in the Valley of the Kings, it contains a multitude of ancient artifacts, including the famous funerary mask of the pharaoh.
  • Tomb of Ramses II – One of the largest and most impressive tombs, with wonderful frescoes depicting battles and mythological scenes.
  • Tomb of Seti I – One of the most beautiful tombs, with impressive paintings and a special atmosphere.
  • Tomb of Amenhotep II – A tomb that is famous for his exquisite paintings and for the fact that it is less crowded than others.

How much time should you allow for a visit to the Valley of the Kings?

A visit to the Valley of the Kings can last between 3 and 5 hours, depending on how many tombs you want to visit and how much time you want to spend admiring the paintings and hieroglyphics. If you want to explore more tombs, you may need to plan an entire day trip.

What to know before visiting the Valley of the Kings?

  • Clothing: As the Valley of the Kings is an arid and hot place, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun.
  • Entrance tickets: There is an admission fee for the Valley of the Kings, and some tombs may require additional tickets.
  • Guided tours: It is recommended to book a guided tour to better understand the significance of each tomb and the history behind them. The guide will be able to explain interesting details about each tomb and provide you with valuable information.
  • Lamps or flashlights: Since some tombs are deep and not very well lit, you may find it more comfortable to visit if you have a flashlight with you (or ask your guide about these details).

How to get to the Valley of the Kings?

If you are in Hurghada, the Valley of the Kings can be visited with the bus, car or guided tours organized by travel agencies. Day trips from Hurghada are very popular and usually include transport, guide and entrance fees.

It is important to keep in mind that the road to the Valley of the Kings takes approx 4-5 hours by car, so it's quite a long trip. I recommend starting early to get the most out of your time there.

The Valley of the Kings is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Egypt, offering a fascinating foray into ancient history of Egypt and a rare opportunity to explore the tombs of the pharaohs. If you are passionate about archaeology and history, this trip is definitely one of the most interesting you can do in Egypt.

Visit the Karnak Temple in Luxor

Karnak Temple it is one of the largest and most impressive religious structures in the world, and a visit here will give you a fascinating insight into the culture and religion of ancient Egypt. Located near the city of Luxor, the Karnak Temple is a vast complex of temples, chapels and obelisks dedicated to the god Amun-R, the king of the gods in Egyptian mythology.

What is Karnak Temple?

Karnak Temple is a monumental religious complex which was built over a period of more than 2,000 years, from the 12th Dynasty to the Greco-Roman period. This was one of the most important places of worship in ancient Egypt and was used for religious ceremonies and festivities dedicated to the gods. Over the centuries, the pharaohs of Egypt added various structures and chapels, so that today Karnak represents an impressive architectural ensemble.

What will you see at Karnak Temple?

Karnak Temple is known for Hypostyle Hall, a huge room with 134 huge columns, each having a height of 21 meters. This hall, which was used for religious ceremonies, is one of the most remarkable attractions of the complex. Other major attractions include:

  • The obelisks of Hatshepsut – Two large obelisks, located at the entrance to the temple, which were erected during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut, one of the most powerful female rulers in Egypt.
  • The sacred lake – An artificial lake used for religious rituals, located in the center of the temple complex.
  • Temple dedicated to Amun-Ra – The main part of the temple, where statues and hieroglyphs depicting various religious and mythological scenes are found.
  • The chapel of Pharaoh Thutmose III – A smaller structure, but full of impressive details, dedicated to the god Amun.

How much time do you need to allow for a visit to Karnak Temple?

A full visit to Karnak Temple usually takes approx 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring every corner of the complex and admiring the architectural details. If you are passionate about history and want to learn more about the meaning of each element of the temple, I recommend opting for a guided tour.

What to know before visiting Karnak Temple?

  • Clothing: As the visit is outdoors, it is important to bring light and comfortable clothing, sunscreen and water. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be quite dusty.
  • Entrance tickets: There is an entrance ticket to Karnak Temple, and some attractions inside may require additional tickets.
  • Guided tours: To better understand the significance of each structure and learn more about the history of the temple, I recommend booking a guided tour. The guides will be able to give you detailed information about the history and importance of the place.

How to get to Karnak Temple?

Karnak Temple is located in the city of Luxor, which is approx 4-5 hours away by car from Hurghada. There are several organized tours from Hurghada that include transport to Luxor, guides and entrance tickets, making it a great option for a day trip. If you prefer to travel alone, you can rent a car or take a bus to Luxor.

Karnak Temple is a fascinating place full of history, and a visit here will give you a unique opportunity to understand the religion and culture of ancient Egypt. It is a perfect place for all lovers of history, mythology and architecture, and the grand scenery and impressive details will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Hurghada is a perfect destination for any type of traveler, whether you want adventure, relaxation or cultural exploration. No matter what you choose to do, you will have an unforgettable experience in the heart of Egypt!

You might also be interested in: