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Hurghada is a famous resort town located on Egypt’s Red Sea. The region is known for its guaranteed sunshine, white sandy beaches, and luxurious hotels. A vacation in Hurghada is not only affordable but also incredibly diverse. For divers, Hurghada is a true highlight. The city on the Red Sea boasts a variety of diving schools. But if you prefer staying on land, a flight to Hurghada, Egypt, also offers plenty of excitement: the city features a perfect blend of modern neighborhoods and a traditional old town, all along a stunning coastline.
Hurghada International Airport is well-connected to major international airports in the US via connecting flights. While direct, nonstop cheap flights to Hurghada from the US are rare, there are several airlines that provide one-stop services, usually with a layover in Cairo or other Middle Eastern hubs. A flight to Hurghada from New York typically takes around 12 to 14 hours with a layover, depending on the airline and connection time.
For those traveling from the USA, connecting flights to Hurghada via EgyptAir or other international airlines are the most common options. If you’re coming from Cairo, a direct connection to Hurghada is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Traveling by land from Cairo is also possible, but it’s not the most efficient way to get to Hurghada. The journey by bus can take up to seven hours, so many travelers opt to fly directly to save time.
Hurghada is known for its luxurious hotel resorts. Smaller guesthouses and private accommodations are rare, but you can rent apartments or even entire vacation villas. In the lagoon city of El Gouna, apartments with hotel service are available.
All-inclusive vacations are very popular for meals in Hurghada and Safaga. Around two-thirds of Hurghada visitors book hotels with at least four stars, with around 20% choosing luxury hotels.
For US citizens, a visa is required for entry into Egypt. You can obtain a tourist visa before your trip at an Egyptian consulate in the US or upon arrival at Hurghada International Airport. The visa fee is generally around $25 USD, and it is valid for 30 days.
Visa on arrival is available for most American passport holders at the airport in Hurghada, making it a convenient option for many travelers. If you are booking a package tour, the visa fee may be included in your tour price.
An alternative to the tourist visa is entry via the Egyptian e-Visa system, which allows US citizens to apply for a visa online before arrival. This can be a quicker and more convenient option for travelers who prefer not to deal with the visa process at the airport.
American citizens can also enter Egypt with a valid US passport and, in some cases, may be eligible for entry with a temporary visa for specific travel circumstances. When booking flights to Hurghada and Hurghada vacations, it’s recommended to check the most up-to-date entry requirements on the US Department of State’s website or with the Egyptian Embassy before planning your trip.
The city of Hurghada is made up of various districts:
The traditionally influenced old town district, El Dahar, with Egyptian cafes and a market.
The newer district, Sekalla, offers many western-oriented bars and restaurants, hotels, dive schools, and dive shops.
The hotel complexes spread over a 25-mile coastal stretch south and north of the city.
Depending on whether you want to make use of the city’s offerings or prefer a secluded resort, your choice of hotel should reflect this. Many hotels offer shuttle buses to the center of Hurghada.
Pirate tip: 13.5 miles north of Hurghada, you can enjoy luxury in the newly built lagoon city of El Gouna!
Statistically, Hurghada has exactly three days of rain per year: one in December, one in January, and one in February. While it’s winter in Europe, Hurghada still enjoys pleasant temperatures, with water temperatures around 68°F and daytime temperatures up to 46°F. However, from June to August, it can get uncomfortably hot, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 100°F.
The best time to visit Hurghada depends on the activities you plan to enjoy: relaxing on the beach or sightseeing and adventure? According to our climate chart, the best months for a beach vacation are April to November. However, keep in mind that July and August fall in the peak season when prices are higher.
Even in cooler months like December, January, February, and March, temperatures can reach up to 75°F, but it can get cooler at night. During this weather, you can take sightseeing tours, and with water temperatures around 70°F, swimming is still possible. The best time for diving in Hurghada is from May to November, as the mild temperatures allow year-round swimming with dolphins — if you’re lucky enough to see them.
The highlight of Hurghada is undoubtedly the diving trips. South of the hotel district and further out in the sea, there are impressive coral reefs to explore. Also, north of Hurghada, in El Gouna, diving trips to the surrounding islands are available.
While Hurghada also boasts a large mosque, several beautiful buildings, and a lively souk (market) in the old town, most visitors are drawn to the long white beaches and water sports.
Safari tours with quads, jeeps, or camels through the desert
Various water sports: kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, or deep-sea fishing
Visiting a water park like Makadi Water World
Egypt is an Islamic country, and alcohol licenses are limited. However, exceptions are made for tourists, particularly within hotels. During the fasting month of Ramadan, it’s important to be respectful and refrain from eating in public. However, these rules do not apply inside hotels.
Respect for religious behavior is essential. Mosques must be entered without shoes and wearing appropriate clothing. Women should dress modestly, and men are advised not to wear shorts outside of the beach areas. On the markets in Hurghada, you should — and must — haggle when prices are not indicated.
Despite small cultural differences, hospitality is highly valued in Egypt, so be prepared to experience the warmth of this fascinating country! Ready to book your vacation? Then, explore our last-minute deals for your trip to Hurghada, Egypt.
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