After soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches and diving into the crystal-clear waters that are central to the things to do in Hurghada, consider expanding your adventure with day trips from Hurghada. These excursions offer a deeper look into Egypt’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes, from the majestic deserts surrounding the city to the vibrant underwater life of the Red Sea.
Beyond the city, the vast array of things to do in Egypt opens up, inviting you to explore ancient pharaonic temples, the timeless flow of the Nile, and the cultural richness of Luxor and Aswan. Each journey from Hurghada is a gateway to understanding the multifaceted beauty of Egypt, blending the allure of its ancient civilizations with the breathtaking natural wonders.
Choosing where to stay in Hurghada is crucial for travelers seeking to balance their love for the sea with the desire to explore Egypt’s historical treasures. A well-located accommodation not only provides easy access to Hurghada’s top attractions but also serves as a comfortable base for embarking on memorable day trips to the country’s most iconic sites.
Discover Best Day Trips from Hurghada, Egypt
1. Luxor, Egypt
Luxor, known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, is home to the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. This ancient city offers a deep dive into Egypt’s rich history.
Distance: Approximately 290 km
Travel Time: About 4 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Temple of Hatshepsut
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- Valley of the Kings: $12
- Karnak Temple: $10
- Temple of Hatshepsut: $7
Budget: Approximately $70-$120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Nile River, Colossi of Memnon, Luxor Temple
Travel Tip: Start your day early to explore the sites before the heat and crowds peak, and consider a Nile River cruise for a unique perspective.
2. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The city also boasts the Egyptian Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Distance: Approximately 450 km
Travel Time: About 5 to 6 hours by car or 1 hour by flight
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com) or Flight
Main Attractions: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- Pyramids of Giza: $10
- Egyptian Museum: $6
- Sphinx: Included with Pyramids ticket
Budget: Approximately $100-$200 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Giza Plateau, Cairo Citadel, Al-Azhar Park
Travel Tip: Dress conservatively while exploring the city and be prepared for a busy, vibrant atmosphere.
3. Aswan, Egypt
Aswan, set on the Nile River, is known for its beautiful scenery and significant archaeological sites like the Temple of Philae and the Unfinished Obelisk. It’s a gateway to exploring the temples of Abu Simbel.
Distance: Approximately 500 km
Travel Time: About 5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Temple of Philae, Unfinished Obelisk, Aswan High Dam
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- Temple of Philae: $8
- Unfinished Obelisk: $4
- Aswan High Dam: $3
Budget: Approximately $80-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Elephantine Island, Nubian Village, Kitchener’s Island
Travel Tip: Consider a traditional felucca ride on the Nile at sunset for a memorable experience.
4. Dendera and Abydos, Egypt
Dendera and Abydos are two ancient sites that boast some of Egypt’s most well-preserved and less crowded temples. The Temple of Hathor at Dendera and the Temple of Seti I at Abydos are highlights.
Distance: Approximately 230 km
Travel Time: About 3 to 4 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Temple of Hathor at Dendera, Temple of Seti I at Abydos
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Temple of Hathor: $6
- Temple of Seti I: $7
Budget: Approximately $60-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Dendera Temple Complex, Osireion at Abydos
Travel Tip: Bring a good camera, as these sites are less visited and offer excellent photographic opportunities without the crowds.
5. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm El Sheikh, located at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is famous for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a wide range of water sports. It’s a paradise for snorkelers and divers.
Distance: Approximately 250 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by ferry
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Coral reefs, water sports, Ras Mohammed National Park
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- Ras Mohammed National Park: $5
- Snorkeling/Diving Excursions: Varies by provider
Budget: Approximately $60-$120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ras Mohammed National Park, Naama Bay, Shark’s Bay
Travel Tip: Don’t miss a trip to Ras Mohammed National Park for some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences.
6. Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine’s Monastery, Egypt
The Sinai Mountain offers a chance to hike up the biblical Mount Sinai, and the nearby St. Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world.
Distance: Approximately 400 km
Travel Time: About 6 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mount Sinai, St. Catherine’s Monastery
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- St. Catherine’s Monastery: $6
- Mount Sinai Entrance: $4
Budget: Approximately $70-$130 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mount Sinai Summit, Chapel of the Burning Bush
Travel Tip: Plan an early morning hike to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the mountaintop.
7. Marsa Alam, Egypt
Marsa Alam, a town on the Red Sea, is increasingly popular for its sandy beaches and coral reefs. It’s a quieter alternative to Hurghada for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the sea.
Distance: Approximately 270 km
Travel Time: About 4 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Elphinstone Reef, beaches, snorkeling, and diving
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Elphinstone Reef: $20 (diving permit)
- Abu Dabbab Beach: $5
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Elphinstone Reef, Abu Dabbab Beach, Wadi El Gamal National Park
Travel Tip: Visit the Elphinstone Reef for an exceptional diving experience, known for its vibrant marine life.
8. El Gouna, Egypt
El Gouna, a modern resort town near Hurghada, offers luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and a range of water activities like kite surfing, windsurfing, and diving.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Beaches, water sports, luxury resorts
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Beaches: Free (varies by resort)
- Kite Surfing/Windsurfing: Varies by provider
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation and activities)
Scenic Spots: El Gouna Marina, Mangroovy Beach, Downtown El Gouna
Travel Tip: Explore the lagoons by boat or take a stroll in the downtown area for dining and shopping.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Hurghada, Egypt
What are some recommended day trips from Hurghada?
From Hurghada, popular day trips include snorkeling or diving at the Giftun Islands, visiting the historic city of Luxor to see the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple, and exploring the desert by quad bike or camel safari.
Is a day trip to Luxor worth it from Hurghada?
Absolutely! A day trip to Luxor offers a fantastic opportunity to explore ancient Egyptian temples, tombs, and monuments, including the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Karnak Temple.
Can I visit the Pyramids of Giza from Hurghada?
Yes, it’s possible to visit the Pyramids of Giza from Hurghada. It usually involves a longer day trip or an overnight stay, as it requires a flight or a drive to Cairo, but it’s an unforgettable experience.
Are there snorkeling trips available to the Red Sea coral reefs?
Yes, there are numerous snorkeling trips available from Hurghada to the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs. These excursions often include stops at multiple snorkeling spots, where you can see a variety of marine life.
What desert activities can I do from Hurghada?
Hurghada offers a range of desert activities, including quad biking, jeep safaris, and camel rides. These adventures provide a unique way to experience the beauty and vastness of the Egyptian desert.
Is there a day trip to Abu Simbel from Hurghada?
While it’s possible to arrange a day trip to Abu Simbel from Hurghada, it involves a flight to Aswan followed by a drive. Due to the distance, it’s a long day, but seeing the temples of Ramses II and Nefertari is incredibly rewarding.
Can I experience Bedouin culture on a day trip from Hurghada?
Yes, several day trips from Hurghada offer the chance to experience Bedouin culture. These trips often include a visit to a Bedouin village in the desert, where you can learn about their traditional way of life, enjoy a Bedouin tea, and observe the stars at night.
Are there boat trips to Dolphin House from Hurghada?
Yes, boat trips to Dolphin House (Sha’ab Samadai) are popular. This protected area is known for its frequent dolphin sightings, and visitors have the chance to snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters alongside these friendly marine creatures.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/hurghada-l403?activity_type=dayTrip
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