Planning your first holiday in Hurghada and wondering which excursions are really worth it? This friendly roundup covers the best boat trips, desert safaris, snorkelling spots and day tours, with local tips on timing and booking – so first-time visitors can plan a full week in Hurghada without the guesswork.
1. Paradise Island Snorkelling Trip
A full day on the Red Sea with two reef stops, lunch on board and time on a white-sand island beach. It is the easiest introduction to snorkelling in Hurghada. See the Paradise Island trip.
Local tip: book it early in your holiday – if the sea is rough on your chosen day, you still have time to reschedule.
2. Orange Bay Island Escape
Famous for its shallow turquoise lagoon and soft sand, Orange Bay is perfect for families and beach lovers. Discover Orange Bay.
3. Dolphin House Snorkelling
A boat trip to the reef area where wild spinner dolphins often gather, with snorkelling at nearby coral gardens. Book the Dolphin House adventure.
4. Desert Quad Safari At Sunset
Ride across the dunes, visit a Bedouin camp and watch the sun set over the Eastern Desert mountains. Try the Super Safari or a shorter 3-hour quad safari.
5. Luxor Day Trip From Hurghada
Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut in one long, unforgettable day with an Egyptologist guide. See the Royal Luxor Experience.
Local tip: it is a long day – plan an easy beach day afterwards.
6. Cairo And The Pyramids
Stand in front of the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, then explore Egypt’s treasures at the museum. Choose the Golden Cairo Tour by road or the Cairo fly tour to save travel time.
7. Submarine Trip
Non-swimmers and young children can see the coral reef through large windows without getting wet. Explore the submarine adventure.
8. Horse Riding On The Beach
Ride along the shore and into the shallow waves – a magical experience at sunset. Book horse riding by the sea.
9. Hurghada City Tour
See the old town of El Dahar, the Marina, the Mosque and the local fish market with a guide. Join the Magic City Tour.
10. Stargazing In The Desert
Leave the city lights behind for a Bedouin dinner and telescope session under one of the clearest night skies in Egypt. Book the stargazing night.
A Sample First-Week Plan
- Day 1: arrive with a private Hurghada airport transfer and relax.
- Day 2: Paradise Island or Orange Bay boat trip.
- Day 3: beach and city tour.
- Day 4: Luxor day trip.
- Day 5: rest day at the hotel.
- Day 6: desert safari at sunset.
- Day 7: Dolphin House or submarine trip.
Booking Tips For First-Timers
- Check what is included – transfers, lunch, entrance fees and equipment.
- Book long day trips (Luxor, Cairo) early in your stay.
- Bring cash for tips and extras.
- Ask about our discount when you book three tours together.
Browse all tours and excursions from Hurghada or contact us and we’ll help you put your week together.
