Hurghada Information

Hurghada Information

Hurghada

The golden sun setting over the majestic Red Sea, a desert landscape adorned with palm trees, the shimmering turquoise waters playing host to vibrant coral reefs, and the bustling markets filled with vibrant textiles, fragrances, and local cuisine; welcome to Hurghada, a hidden gem on the eastern coast of Egypt. Many travelers have dreamt about visiting Egypt's awe-inspiring pyramids and historic temples, but let me introduce you to the enchanting seaside delights that this otherworldly coastal city offers. Whether you're a thrill-seeking adventurer, an ocean aficionado, or a soul-searching wanderer, Hurghada is an enchanting oasis that entices you to explore its depths, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. So grab your sunscreen and bathing suit because we’re about to dive in and uncover the breathtaking wonders that await you in this magical corner of the world.

1. Introduction to Hurghada and its language links

Hurghada, a coastal city located along the Red Sea in Egypt, has become a popular holiday destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city's name originates from the Arabic name of a plant known as "Hurghada," which is mentioned in a hadith as the "tree of the Jews." Founded in the early 20th century as a small fishing village, Hurghada has undergone significant transformation since the 1980s due to considerable Egyptian and foreign investments. Nowadays, it boasts numerous holiday resorts and hotels catering to tourists and offering various water and sports activities.

Language connections in Hurghada span across various linguistic groups, as many Europeans visit the coastal city, particularly during the winter months. With growing popularity among tourists, it is common to find signs and information in several languages, such as English, Dutch, Russian, and Spanish, among others. The city's linguistic diversity reflects its status as an international destination and offers visitors the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges with locals and fellow travelers.

Hurghada's climate is characterized by warm weather, with daytime temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) for most of the year. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures sometimes rising above 40°C (104°F). Due to its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery, the city has become a popular choice for Europeans looking to spend their Christmas and New Year holidays basking under the sun.

Several areas in Hurghada cater to different needs and preferences. El Dahar, in particular, is the oldest part of the city and is home to traditional markets and long-distance bus stations. Meanwhile, El Mamsha, a pedestrianized street over 4 km (2.5 mi) long, houses many of the newer hotels, restaurants, and shops. For those attracted to the nightlife scene, Sakala in the city center is a prime spot, with an abundance of hotels, shops, and eateries.

2. History and origins of the city

The history of Hurghada, a now popular resort city on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, is quite different from other ancient Egyptian cities like Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria. In the early 20th century, between 1900 and 1920, Hurghada was just a tiny village inhabited by Arabian fishermen. Historical records show that in 1906, there were merely six primitive houses in the area. Back then, the city's main commercial activity involved drying and selling fish to caravans coming from the Nile Valley.

Hurghada's journey to becoming a prominent city began in 1909 when oil was first discovered in the region. However, the actual excavation and production process didn't start until after World War II. Before the 1920s, sailors coming from the Red Sea coast would fish near the Egyptian borders and meet at a large tree called Ghardaqa, which is where the city's name originated. This tree marked the spot where the first summer resort was built in Hurghada in 1952 for King Farouq, the last king of Egypt.

After Gamal Abdel Nasser, the former Egyptian president, carried out the nationalization process, this building was transformed into a club for the Egyptian armed forces. It wasn't until the early 1980s that touristic experts and the Egyptian government started recognizing Hurghada's potential to become a major tourist destination. The city's natural attributes, including a large number of islands, diverse coral reefs, and a long beach extending over 30 kilometers, attracted local and international investors from Europe, the United States, and the Gulf.

From that point onward, various hotels and resorts were established in and around the city center, helping Hurghada become the fantastic vacation destination it is today in Egypt. 

3. Tourist attractions and popular destinations

Hurghada, Egypt's oldest and most famous resort, is known for its colorful underwater world of coral and fish life, as well as its sandy white beaches and blue skies. This popular destination caters to northern European tourists seeking a winter sun-and-sea escape. While its main attraction is beach relaxation, there are plenty of other activities for adventurous travelers, both in the water and on dry land.

One of the top tourist attractions in Hurghada is the Giftun Islands, offering pristine swaths of white sand and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The islands are easily accessible by boat and are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, making them an ideal destination for scuba diving enthusiasts and novice snorkelers alike. In addition to the underwater spectacle, visitors can also soak up the sun on the island's stunning beaches.

Another popular destination in Hurghada is the Straits of Gubal, a narrow strip of water squeezed between the Red Sea coast and the western shore of the Sinai Peninsula. Known for its wreck diving, the area is home to several famous sites, including the SS Thistlegorm, a World War II cargo ship rediscovered by French diver Jacques Cousteau. Besides wreck diving, the Straits of Gubal offer numerous other opportunities for divers to explore the rich marine life that calls this area home.

For those who prefer activities on dry land, one of Hurghada's most popular excursions is exploring the desert by Jeep or quad bike. Travelers can venture off-road to discover the region's acacia trees, rugged mountain terrain, and vast sand dunes while enjoying the unique experience of quad biking, dune buggy trips, or jeep expeditions. With a diverse array of attractions and activities, Hurghada offers an unforgettable vacation experience for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of both the sea and the desert. 

4. Hurghada's population and division into different areas

Hurghada, a beautiful city on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, is home to a population of 248,000 inhabitants. Famous for its enchanting underwater life, this rapidly growing tourist destination has become the perfect spot for those seeking a tropical getaway. With an ever-increasing number of visitors, Hurghada has expanded and developed into several distinct areas that cater to the diverse needs of tourists and locals alike.

The city is divided into various regions, each with its unique charm and attractions. El Kawsar, El Ahia, and El Helal make up the modern part of Hurghada, showcasing luxurious resorts, mid-range hotels, and upscale restaurants along with some of the most exquisite seaside views.

Sigala, the city center, is where you'll find a vibrant mix of leisure attractions and a range of hotels catering to different budgets. Many lively bars, nightclubs, and restaurants are dotted along this lively strip. In the south of Sigala, you'll find an array of luxury resorts perfect for those who wish to indulge in a lavish vacation experience.

El-Dahar, the old town, is filled with historical charm and a rich cultural ambiance. This area is famous for its vibrant bazaar, offering visitors a true taste of traditional Egyptian life. El-Dahar also houses some fantastic local resorts amidst its picturesque surroundings.

Lastly, El Memsha is a pedestrianized village road stretching over 4 km. This mesmerizing part of Hurghada is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil, laid-back experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

With something to offer everyone, Hurghada's diverse areas provide an array of experiences to suit all preferences. As the city flourishes and grows, so does its charm and appeal to visitors seeking a truly unforgettable Red Sea adventure.

5. Accommodation options and prominent hotels

Hurghada, a stunning Egyptian city located along the Red Sea coast, offers an array of accommodation options that cater to various preferences and budgets. With several prominent hotels and resorts, visitors are guaranteed to enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay.

One of the top choices for families is the SUNRISE Garden Beach Resort - All Inclusive. This family-friendly resort boasts a spacious family suite with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, perfect for a comfortable stay. The resort provides a wide variety of food, several swimming pools, and a decent-sized aqua park. The hotel has its own beach and is close to shopping facilities, making it an ideal choice for a fun and relaxing family vacation. Guests highly recommend the hotel, commending the staff for their friendly service and willingness to accommodate guest needs.

For a truly luxurious experience, consider staying at a five-star hotel such as the Pickalbatros Blu Spa Resort, which is adult-friendly and offers an ultra all-inclusive package. The resort features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and garden, ensuring a comfortable and rejuvenating stay. With a private beach and exceptional staff service, guests are sure to have an unforgettable vacation.

Steigenberger Pure Lifestyle, an adults-only resort, offers a unique experience with activities such as golfing, snorkeling, and canoeing available in the surroundings. Guests can enjoy the full all-inclusive experience without the hassle of constantly signing receipts or remembering room numbers.

Another top-rated accommodation in Hurghada is the Prima Life Makadi, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and garden. The resort caters to families, providing a kids' club and a water park. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests.

Lastly, the Pickalbatros White Beach Resort - Hurghada offers an all-inclusive stay with a kids' water park on-site. With a private sandy beach and various activities available, it's an ideal vacation destination for families and couples alike.

6. Hurghada as a hub for tourism and water sports

Hurghada, a bustling city on the Red Sea Riviera, has transformed itself from a small fishing village into an international hub for water sports and tourism in just a few short years. The city offers a wide range of aquatic activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottomed boat tours, attracting visitors from all over the world. With its warm and crystal-clear waters, Hurghada is the perfect destination to explore the beautiful underwater gardens and marine life.

The city's accommodation options cater to every kind of traveler, with unique and comfortable lodgings offering efficient personal service. Numerous restaurants can be found along the main thoroughfare, ensuring that visitors can indulge in diverse culinary experiences. For those who are not particularly keen on venturing into the water, the local aquarium and museum offer complete collections representing all local Red Sea plants and animals, providing an alternative way to explore the area's marine life.

As the sun sets, Hurghada becomes a party town, with numerous clubs and bars coming to life along its main streets. Catering mainly to young visitors, Hurghada's nightlife offers a variety of entertainment for all ages. Many of the more exclusive resorts in the area are all-inclusive, offering an array of amenities such as playgrounds, discos, bars, multiple pools, small theaters, and even zoos to ensure a fulfilling vacation.

Despite its popularity, Hurghada is still a city under development, with new hotels, restaurants, and facilities continuously being constructed. The city's surrounding areas, including Safaga, Soma Bay, and El Gouna, offer even more activities for tourists, such as golfing, bowling, or fishing. A day trip to the Red Sea Mountains offers the opportunity to explore Egypt's rich history, while nearby islands like Giftun Island provide idyllic settings for snorkeling and barbecues.

In summary, Hurghada is a versatile and ever-growing hub for tourism and water sports, providing a wide array of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. With its beautiful waters, vibrant nightlife, and diverse attractions, it's no wonder that this city has become a top destination for travelers from around the world.

7. Best public beaches in Hurghada for visitors to explore

Hurghada, the renowned city situated on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, boasts of some of the world's most beautiful beaches. For those looking to soak in the sun and immerse themselves in the crystal-clear waters, here are seven best public beaches in Hurghada that are worth exploring.

Firstly, consider visiting the calm and picturesque Old Vic Beach. This family-friendly beach is perfect for water-ski enthusiasts, and its clean, soft sands provide an excellent space for relaxation. Entrance fees may vary depending on the season, but expect to pay around 100 Egyptian pounds per person.

Next, the Public Beach No. 4, also known as Abu Ashara Beach, offers an affordable yet delightful experience with an entry fee of just 15 pounds. This beach, though simple, provides a serene atmosphere, perfect for spending a quiet day by the sea.

Another option is Soma Bay, located between Hilton Plaza Hotel and the village of Aljesium. For an entry fee of 25 pounds, you'll have access to a beautiful beach with soft sands and various water activities.

For a slightly more luxurious beach experience, head over to Giftun Island. This picturesque island can only be reached by boat and is well worth the trip. The stunning white-sand beach has crystal-clear waters, allowing visitors to gaze at the colorful marine life beneath the surface.

For those who don't mind splurging a bit, VIP Beach on Giftun Island offers an exclusive experience with prices reaching up to 900 LE per person. This pristine beach provides top-class services and a variety of food and beverage choices to satisfy every palate.

Coral Beach Resort and Hotel's private beach is another option for guests seeking a lavish experience. With an entry fee ranging from 300 to 500 pounds, you can enjoy the resort's amenities, such as the on-site dive center, gourmet restaurants, and pool bar.

Lastly, Fayrous Beach (Public Beach No. 5) or Turquoise Beach, is a small but charming public beach located near Sherton Street. With an entry fee of 20 LE, visitors get to enjoy sunshades, seats, and a children's playground.

In conclusion, Hurghada offers a wide array of stunning public beaches catering to different budgets and preferences. From serene, budget-friendly options to luxurious, exclusive beaches, there's something for every visitor to enjoy in this beautiful Red Sea resort city. [13][14]

8. Top-rated hotels and resorts in Hurghada

Hurghada, a popular beach destination on Egypt's Red Sea coast, is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The city is home to a wide range of luxurious hotels and resorts that cater to every traveler's needs, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay. Here is a list of the top-rated hotels and resorts in Hurghada.

One of the most prestigious resorts in the area is the Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh, nestled in the heart of Sahl Hasheesh Bay. This luxurious haven extends over 600 m2 of private sandy beach and has elegantly designed suites and villas that offer beachfront accommodation. The Steigenberger Resort Ras Soma, another luxurious property, offers stylish half-board and all-inclusive accommodation options. The resort's impeccably appointed guest rooms provide stunning views of the lush surroundings and the Red Sea

SUNRISE Tucana Resort -Grand Select- offers a premium all-inclusive experience in Hurghada. Situated just 27 km from New Marina and 28 km from Giftun Island, this 4-star hotel features activities and amenities catering to adults and families. An exceptional option for golf enthusiasts is the ROBINSON Soma Bay, which offers full-board accommodation along with access to the beautiful Cascades Golf Club, located directly on Soma Bay's sandy beach.

For a serene adults-only stay, the White Beach Resort is a contemporary property that offers air-conditioned rooms overlooking the Red Sea or the landscaped pool area. Guests can also indulge in activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the exotic natural seascape. The Pickalbatros Blu Spa Resort is another beachfront adults-only option that offers 5-star accommodation in Hurghada. Besides a variety of recreational activities, the resort also features a spa and wellness center with an indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub for relaxation.

Located in the heart of Hurghada, Steigenberger Pure Lifestyle (Adults Only) offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, private parking, and excellent room service. The resort also offers evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk. Families traveling with children can enjoy a stay at the Prima Life Makadi, a 5-star resort that features an outdoor fitness center, a garden, and a kids' club.

In conclusion, Hurghada offers a wide array of luxurious accommodations that cater to the varying needs of visitors. Whether you're looking for an adults-only getaway or a family-friendly resort, you can expect to find top-notch service, exceptional amenities, and stunning views in this beautiful Red Sea destination.

9. Family-friendly activities and entertainment options

Hurghada, a bustling coastal city on the eastern coast of Egypt, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities and entertainment options for tourists. The city has transformed from a small fishing village to a sought-after tourist spot, attracting thousands of visitors yearly. With its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, happening nightlife, and temperate climatic conditions, Hurghada is a perfect destination for families looking to make memorable moments together.

One of the most popular activities for families in Hurghada is basking on the pristine white sand beaches. The city boasts over 36 kilometers of coastline, with the shimmering waters of the Red Sea offering a stunning backdrop. There are plenty of private and public beaches to choose from, ensuring that families can find the perfect spot for relaxation and fun.

Snorkeling is another activity that shouldn't be missed when visiting Hurghada. The city is known as one of the top snorkeling destinations in Egypt, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, including colorful coral reefs. Families can embark on snorkeling tours to places like Utopia Island, Makadi Beach, and Giftun Islands National Park, where they can enjoy the underwater world and witness the awe-inspiring sea life.

Families interested in learning about Egypt's marine life can visit Hurghada Grand Aquarium. This award-winning aquarium not only showcases the stunning sea creatures of the Red Sea but also educates visitors about the importance of marine conservation and preservation.

For the more adventurous families, a desert safari is an excellent way to experience Hurghada's beautiful desert landscape. Whether it's exploring the dunes on a quad bike or camel, these adventures offer unforgettable experiences under the vast Egyptian skies.

Another unique attraction in Hurghada is Sand City, an open-air museum showcasing impressive sand sculptures made by talented artists. These artworks, ranging from pyramids to cartoon characters, represent centuries of Egyptian sand art tradition and offer a fascinating experience for the whole family.

In conclusion, Hurghada is a fantastic destination for family vacations, offering a wide range of entertainment options and activities to suit every member of the family. From beach relaxation to desert adventures, this stunning coastal city promises an unforgettable experience for all.

10. Luxurious seaside retreats and deluxe suites in Hurghada

Hurghada, Egypt, is a stunning seaside paradise that attracts tourists from all over the world. Known for its crystal-clear waters, world-renowned coral reefs, and endless sunshine, it is a perfect destination for a luxurious and unforgettable vacation on the shores of Egypt's idyllic Red Sea region. Visitors seeking ultimate luxury can choose from numerous elegant resorts and hotels that offer world-class service, fine dining, and an array of lavish amenities to ensure a memorable stay.

One of the top luxury hotels in Hurghada is the Pickalbatros Citadel Resort, a beautiful all-inclusive beachfront accommodation. Built using natural coral stones, it features four outdoor swimming pools, six hot tubs, and six restaurants alongside a state-of-the-art fitness center. The luxuriously-appointed guest rooms boast stunning views of the Red Sea, with each equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and a balcony or terrace.

Another impressive option is Rixos Premium Magawish, a 5-star all-inclusive resort that offers only villas and suites with beachfront accommodations. This property boasts a 1 km private sandy beach, 30 swimming pools, five à la carte restaurants, one buffet restaurant, and ten bars. The air-conditioned suites and villas come with a minibar, an espresso machine, and a pillow menu, all set in a picturesque garden with pool and sea views.

For those seeking world-class service, the Cleopatra Luxury Resort is an excellent choice. Situated near Hurghada City and the Red Sea Coast, this resort features eight outdoor pools, an on-site diving center, a bazaar, a supermarket, and various shops. The guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV, minibar, and a small seating area, while the suites offer balconies overlooking the Red Sea. Guests can indulge in the state-of-the-art spa for pampering treatments and relaxation.

Finally, the KaiSol Romance Resort is an adults-only retreat that boasts a private beach, outdoor pool, luxury spa, and a choice of six restaurants and bars. With contemporary and stylish guest rooms featuring a private balcony or terrace, satellite TV, and a minibar, this resort offers a serene and sophisticated atmosphere for a romantic getaway.

In conclusion, Hurghada offers a selection of luxurious seaside retreats and deluxe suites that cater to different traveler preferences, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience of the Egyptian Red Sea coast.