The once tiny fishing village of Hurghada was one of the first Red Sea resorts to develop as a tourist destination. It still holds plenty to keep people coming back for more sun, sand and watersports. There are coral reefs close to the shore that are fantastic to explore on a dive yet accessible to snorkelers too. Further offshore there is even more superb diving and, when you finally come up for air, the restaurants, bars and clubs to the south of town, and in Sigala's swanky new marina, mean the fun need not stop when your gas tank runs out. Hurghada is conveniently situated for those who want to combine some time on the Red Sea Riviera with a sightseeing trip to the Nile Valley sites, so you can have your pyramids, deserts and your sandy beaches all in one!
Areas & Neighbourhoods around Hurghada
Ad-Dahar – This is the most ‘Egyptian’ part of Hurghada. Its name means the harbour, and here you will find lively backstreets and a bustling souq, where you can shop for crafts and souvenirs.
Sigala – Separated from the town proper by a sandy mountain called Gebel al-Afish is Sigala, whose stylish new marina is flanked by some excellent dining options and inviting bars.
New Hurghada – This is where the main resorts can be found, and it offers the best options for nightlife and watersports.
The Red Sea Mountains – Inland of Hurghada the Red Sea Mountains doggedly follow the coast all the way down to Ethiopia. Here you will find Egypt’s highest mountains outside of the Sinai region and this is where many Bedouin tribes still maintain their nomadic existence. Take a camel or jeep safari to appreciate the desolate beauty of the mountains before taking (highly sugared) tea in a Bedouin village.
The Red Sea Monasteries – North of Hurghada are the tranquil environs of the historic, but still functioning, monasteries of St Paul and St Anthony. View the manuscripts, take in the history and relish the silence.
Things to See in Hurghada
The main things to see will be found on dive or snorkel sites under the water. They include the Abu Hashish Cave, once used as dope smuggler’s cave, the psychedelic corals of Abu Ramada, the coral gardens of El-Fanous and you can even reach by boat trip the famous wreck of the Thistlegorm that lies off the coast of Sinai. The ancient monasteries to the north are worth a trip out to, and can be combined with a spot of birdwatching in the hills around. The sights of the pyramids at Giza, and the delights of Cairo, are all accessible on a day trip as are the funerary monuments at Luxor.
Things to Do in Hurghada
You don’t have to dive to enjoy the underwater action: families will love the Red Sea Aquarium and the Sindbad Submarine, which will convey you to depths of 22 metres without a gas tank or regulator in sight. The bustling souq of Ad-Dahar makes souvenir shopping fun and helps you dramatically sharpen your bargaining skills! There are no end of atmospheric restaurants, cool cafes and lively nightlife spots to enjoy in New Hurghada, and a wealth of trips to see the sights of the Nile valley available to enjoy.
