EGYPT
Hurghada

Hurghada

Hurghada in the Evening_{Photo: Aligatorek CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

A holiday in Egypt offers you an abundance of treasures from a distant past, but there is also an ideal climate for a beach holiday on the Red and Mediterranean Sea. Hurghada has become Egypt's most popular holiday destination in that light. The city is in fact a long ribbon along the Red Sea. The city is no less than 38 kilometers long, which consists of various parts, such as an old part, a special part with almost only hotels and resorts and a modern center.

Location

Port ofHurghada_{Photo: Alexander Vasenin CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

Hurghada is centrally located in Egypt on the east coast of the country. It is therefore more southerly than comparable places in Sinai. The town has a marina and a fishing port. There are hardly any cities of comparable size in the vicinity. The airport of the Egyptian resort is located just outside the city.

Weather

Most of Egypt has a desert climate. That is to say: hardly any rain, high temperatures and many hours of sunshine. In the summer months the temperature can reach into the high thirties, but in the winter months it is better. Temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees are the rule rather than the exception. The temperature of the water is also very pleasant all year round. Ideal conditions for a wonderful beach holiday.

History

Modern Hurghada was founded in the early twentieth century. Until the 1970s and 1980s, the Egyptian seaside resort was a small fishing village. By the end of the twentieth century, European, Arab and American investors were quick to invest in the tourism industry. They soon foresaw the gold mine that would turn out to be Hurghada. The history of Egypt is extensively described on the Egypt page of Landenweb.

Sights

Hurghada Excursion to the Sphinx and the pyramids _{Photo: Mstyslav Chernov CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

The lack of a long history and the remote location make Hurghada an unspectacular destination for those who enjoy cultural attractions. The rest of Egypt, on the other hand, has many world-famous cultural attractions, such as the pyramids and the Sphinx.

Luxor Temple Excursion from Hurghada_{Photo: Marc Ryckaert CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

From Hurghada to Luxor is about 300 kilometers away. A day in Luxor is therefore not really an option, but what many tourists do, is to make a multi-day excursion. This way you can effortlessly combine a relaxing beach holiday with the countless treasures that the North African country has to offer.

Beach Hurghada_{Photo: Kallerna CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

The most attractive of Hurghda is of course its coastline. Many beaches in Hurghada are affiliated with hotels, but there are also some nice public beaches, which may charge a small fee for admission. Old Vic Village is a large sandy beach on a bay to the south and well shielded from the wind and waves. The Chill Beach Bar is a small cozy beach bar with tropical huts and hammocks and is a popular meeting place for the local divers and surfers. Papas Beach Club is a small sandy beach that is popular with young people and is ideal for those taking a lazy day after going out.

Aquarium Hurghada_{Photo: Hatem Moushir CC 4.0 International no changes made}

The Aquarium in Hurghada itself offers an excellent opportunity to see the great variety of marine life in the Red Sea. The information about the fish is clearly documented in English with diagrams and texts about each species. Children and families can learn how to identify the different species and where to spot them when diving or snorkeling the reef.

Market in Hurghada_{Photo: Roitner CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

The lively market that stocks its stalls every day in Hurghada's old town is called El-Dahar. The market has all the hallmarks of a traditional Egyptian bazaar. You will find everything from polished copperware to wooden tea tables. Visitors negotiate and traders loudly praise their goods. Pack donkeys determine the street scene.

Tips

Giftun Island near Hurghada_{Photo: E v Schoonhoven CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

The Giftun Islands lie just off the coast of Hurghada. These little paradises can be visited by boat. Here you see white beaches, a crystal-clear ocean and you can dive exceptionally beautiful. Moreover, an excursion to these islands stands for a day of rest, comfort and relaxation.

Hurghada Underwaterworld_{Photo: Dinovandoorn CC 3.0 Unported no changes made}

Many diving excursions are also offered in Hurghada itself. The Red Sea is an underwater paradise with many species of fish, turtles, colorful coral reefs as far as the eye can see and many more exotic underwater animals. You can stay in the beautiful waters as both a beginner and an advanced diver, as courses, equipment and guidance are offered throughout the city.

Desert excursion Hurghada_{Photo: Hatem Moushir CC 4.0 International no changes made}

In addition to all the beauty underwater, there is also a lot to do above water. An absolute must is to go on a camel ride through the desert. If you don't want to ride a camel, you can also easily discover the sand dunes by car. You can't believe your eyes, especially at night. A starry sky in the desert cannot be compared to one that we see in the UK. Here no clouds, no light pollution and no air pollution, here you can easily search for all the celestial bodies that our universe is rich.