Itineraries for Your Trip to Hurghada
3 Days in Hurghada for First Timers
While my first visit to Hurghada was for one reason—to take an introductory scuba diving course—I’ve kept returning ever since. I quickly realized that this laid-back resort on Egypt’s Red Sea is prime for a chilled-out beach vacation. As well as its unrivaled marine life, year-round sunshine, and great beachside hotels—all perfect for days dedicated entirely to the sands and sea—it has plenty of other attractions, from desert expeditions to its day-trip proximity to both Cairo and Luxor. Three days is just about enough time to sample the best of Hurghada; here’s my recommended itinerary for getting the most from your stay.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a boat trip to snorkel over the Red Sea’s amazing reefs.
While it’s still warm enough to sunbathe in Hurghada in winter (between November and January), it can be breezy, and the sea can be cool to chilly.
The beach and ocean are key to Hurghada’s charms, so spend your first morning enjoying the sands, swimming, or joining a scuba course or a trip on a dive boat. Alternatively, if you’re keen to explore on land, consider getting your bearings with a Hurghada city tour that includes shopping for souvenirs in the El Dahar bazaars and seeing landmarks like the Al Mina Mosque and the Hurghada Marina.
Later, head out on a desert adventure: Roar across the plains aboard an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) to a Bedouin village, or ride a 4WD into the sands for dinner and a stargazing session.
Day two is prime for exploring more of Egypt, especially if it’s your first visit to the country. Take off on an overland day trip to Luxor to see its archaeological big-hitters like mighty Karnak and the Valley of the Kings. Tours are long but rewarding and typically include lunch and door-to-door hotel transfers for a seamless experience.
If Cairo rather than Luxor calls, grab the chance to visit Egypt’s compelling capital. Full-day tours by bus and air cover the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun’s treasures, making the trip worth the early start and long journey.
Your final day is ideal for wallowing in Hurghada’s Red Sea waters, enjoying the beaches, and diving into water sports. Join a cruise to the idyllic Giftun Islands or Dolphin House marine reserve to spot wild dolphins, laze on white sands, snorkel over bright corals, and enjoy other water sports like banana boats.
Alternatively, seize your last chance to try scuba diving with a boat trip that includes instructors and shallow dive sites perfect for beginners. Or, if you’re traveling with kids, enjoy your pick of Hurghada’s many kid-friendly entertainments, such as the Hurghada Grand Aquarium and Makadi Water World.
