Itineraries for Your Trip to Hurghada
2 Days in Hurghada for First Timers
As a swim and snorkel fanatic—and basic-level scuba diver—there’s no place I’d rather go for a cheap and cheerful vacation than Hurghada. That’s because staying here is largely about the big, beautiful Red Sea awaiting on the doorstep. And even if you’re not sold on seeing marine life, there are numerous other draws. Think near-guaranteed sunshine, a chilled-out pace, exciting desert expeditions, and long but utterly rewarding day trips to Egypt’s sightseeing epicenters: Cairo and Luxor.
If you’re a first-timer planning just two days in Hurghada, here’s our recommended itinerary for experiencing the highlights of this Red Sea resort.
Even if you’re here in winter, pack the sun cream: UV protection is a must, year-round.
If you only have time for one thing, try snorkeling or scuba diving for glimpses of the dazzling sea life.
As it’s your first time in Hurghada, dive straight into the Red Sea or head to one of its beaches. For the ultimate all-in-one experience, ride a boat to Orange Bay or Eden Island on the nearby Giftun Islands. Most private and shared cruises are day-long, and combine snorkel stops, lunch, and downtime at the sands and lagoons. Alternatively, do your own thing at your hotel beach, or explore underwater on a scuba taster or boat dive.
If you’re not already on a cruise or diving adventure, take a peek at the underwater world this afternoon. Book a speedboat trip to snorkel at coral gardens such as Dolphin House, frequented by wild dolphins, or Careless Reef, known for its stunning pinnacles. If you’re here with young kids or don’t like swimming, consider descending into the crystal clear waters in a semi-submarine to view the fabulous marine environment without getting wet.
Switch your attention tonight to Hurghada’s inland attractions. If you have energy to spare, join an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) desert adventure: Roar across the sands and enjoy camel rides and Bedouin-style food as the sun sets. Alternatively, hit the Hurghada Marina or Hurghada Old Town (El Dahar) to experience restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Another option is guided tours that feature must-see Hurghada attractions, last-minute souvenir shopping, and return hotel transfers.
Use today to shuffle your sightseeing and activity cards and enjoy experiences you missed yesterday. Take a full-day scuba course, a guided snorkeling trip, or laze the day away at the Giftun Islands. Meanwhile, avid explorers can sign up for day trips to visit Egypt’s ancient wonders: think Luxor’s Karnak and Valley of the Kings, or Cairo for the Giza Pyramids and museum treasures. Both trips might be long, but they promise to be unforgettable.
Didn’t take a day trip? If so, devote this afternoon to Hurghada’s outdoor adventures: take off on an ATV desert safari, or fly through the sky on a parasailing ride for aerial beach and ocean views. Got the gang in tow? A glass-bottom boat trip to spot exotic fish or a visit to Hurghada Aquarium could be just the ticket.
At night, Hurghada’s desert feels mystical, especially when its skies are blanketed with stars. The best way to experience this natural wonderland is on a 4WD safari that teams a candlelit Bedouin dinner with stargazing—the latter complete with an astrologer guide and telescopes trained on the constellations. Or, hit the town to sample Hurghada’s burgeoning nightlife scene at a dance club or cabaret show.