Introduction
Planning a trip to Hurghada and wondering what to do first? You are in the right place.
Hurghada is one of Egypt’s most exciting destinations — a Red Sea resort town that combines world-class diving, golden desert landscapes, ancient history, and warm Egyptian hospitality all in one place. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, Hurghada has something incredible waiting for you.
At Aquila Adventures, we have been guiding visitors through the best of Hurghada for years. We know these waters, these deserts, and these ancient sites like the back of our hand. This guide gives you our honest, insider list of the 10 best things to do in Hurghada in 2026 — so you can stop scrolling and start adventuring.
1. Dive the Red Sea Coral Reefs
There is a reason Hurghada is ranked among the world’s top diving destinations. The Red Sea is home to some of the most vibrant coral reefs on Earth, teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, rays, and even the occasional dolphin.
Whether you are a certified diver or a complete beginner, diving is one of the best things to do in Hurghada. Popular dive sites include Giftun Island, Sha’ab Abu Nuhas (famous for its shipwrecks), and the stunning reefs around Careless Reef.
Aquila Adventures tip: Our guided diving excursions include full equipment, a PADI-certified instructor, and hotel transfers — perfect for beginners who want a safe, memorable first dive.
Best time to dive: Year-round, but October to April offers the best visibility.
if you are making a list of things to do in Hurghada, don’t miss the underwater world.
2. Snorkel at Orange Bay Island
If diving feels like too much of a commitment, snorkelling at Orange Bay Island is the perfect alternative — and arguably just as breathtaking.
Orange Bay is a postcard-perfect island with white sand beaches and crystal-clear shallow waters packed with tropical fish and coral gardens. You do not need any experience to enjoy it, making it one of the most popular things to do in Hurghada for families and first-time visitors.
A typical boat trip to Orange Bay includes snorkelling stops, a beach break, and a buffet lunch on board — a full day of relaxation and adventure for an unbeatable price.
Aquila Adventures tip: Book an early morning departure to beat the crowds and enjoy the island.
3. Go on a Desert Safari and Quad Biking Adventure
Hurghada is not just about the sea. Just minutes from the shoreline, the vast Egyptian desert stretches endlessly into the horizon — and exploring it is one of the most thrilling things to do in Hurghada.
A desert safari typically includes quad biking across the golden dunes, a camel ride, a visit to a Bedouin village, and a traditional dinner under the stars with live entertainment including belly dancing and fire shows.
It is a completely different side of Egypt – raw, dramatic, and utterly unforgettable.
Aquila Adventures tip: Our sunset desert safaris are particularly popular. The colours of the desert at golden hour are something you have to see to believe.
Suitable for: All ages and fitness levels. Quad bikes are easy to ride with a short briefing.
4. Take a Day Trip to Luxor from Hurghada
Did you know that one of the greatest ancient cities in the world is just a short drive from Hurghada? Luxor is home to the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon — a concentration of ancient wonders that is simply unmatched anywhere on Earth.
A day trip to Luxor from Hurghada takes around 3.5 hours by road and is completely manageable as a full-day excursion. You will explore the tombs of pharaohs, walk through colossal temple complexes, and come away with a deep appreciation for the incredible civilization that built them.
Aquila Adventures tip: We offer private Luxor day trips with a certified Egyptologist guide who brings the history to life in a way no audio guide ever could.
Recommended: Book at least 48 hours in advance, especially in peak season (October–April).
5. Explore the Hurghada Marina
For a more relaxed way to spend a morning or evening, the Hurghada Marina is a beautiful waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, and yachts bobbing in the Red Sea breeze.
It is the perfect place to enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, pick up souvenirs, or simply soak up the atmosphere as the sun sets over the water. The marina is also the departure point for many boat trips and water sports activities.
Aquila Adventures tip: Visit in the early evening when the lights come on over the water — the marina is especially beautiful at dusk.
6. Swim with Dolphins at Dolphin World
One of the most magical experiences in Hurghada, especially for families with children, is the chance to swim with dolphins at Dolphin World. This interactive experience allows you to get up close with bottlenose dolphins in a safe, supervised environment.
It is an unforgettable activity that children (and adults) will talk about for years.
Good to know: Dolphin World experiences need to be booked well in advance as spots fill up fast, particularly during school holidays.
7. Visit Giftun Island by Speedboat
Giftun Island is one of Hurghada’s crown jewels — a protected national park island with pristine beaches, spectacular snorkelling, and a sense of paradise that feels far removed from the mainland.
A speedboat trip to Giftun Island is faster and more exhilarating than a traditional sailing boat, cutting across the turquoise Red Sea in style. Once there, you can snorkel among the fish, relax on the beach, or explore the island’s natural beauty.
Aquila Adventures tip: Combine a Giftun Island trip with a snorkelling stop at a nearby reef for the ultimate Red Sea day out.
8. Try a Bedouin Night Under the Stars
When looking for the best things to do in Hurghada, deeply spending an evening in the Egyptian desert with the Bedouin people — the nomadic tribes who have called this landscape home for centuries.
A Bedouin night experience typically includes a camel ride into the desert, traditional tea and coffee around a campfire, stargazing in one of the darkest and clearest skies you will ever see, and authentic Bedouin food and music.
It is a window into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations, and one of the most memorable things to do in Hurghada for culturally curious travellers.
A magical Bedouin star gazing experience-one of the top things to do in Hurghada.
9. Explore the Old Town (El Dahar)
Many visitors to Hurghada spend all their time at the resort end of town and never see the real Hurghada. El Dahar, the old town, is where the authentic local life happens — busy bazaars, fresh spice markets, local restaurants serving traditional Egyptian food, and the beautiful Al Mina Mosque.
Wandering through El Dahar’s streets, haggling for souvenirs, and sitting down to a plate of kushari or ful medames alongside locals is a reminder that there is a deeply rich Egyptian culture beyond the hotel pool.
Aquila Adventures tip: Visit El Dahar in the late afternoon when the heat eases and the markets come alive.
10. Take a Cairo Day Trip by Plane
No trip to Egypt is truly complete without visiting Cairo — and a flying day trip from Hurghada makes it entirely possible, even on a short holiday.
A short 45-minute flight takes you from the Red Sea coast to Egypt’s sprawling capital, where you can visit the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx, explore the Egyptian Museum (home to Tutankhamun’s golden mask), and sail along the Nile before flying back to Hurghada in the evening.
It is a long but deeply rewarding day that ticks off some of the greatest wonders in human history.
Aquila Adventures tip: Our Cairo by air packages include flights, all transfers, an Egyptologist guide, and lunch — everything handled so you can simply enjoy the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Hurghada
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Hurghada? A: Hurghada can be visited year-round thanks to its warm, sunny climate. October to April is the most popular period, with temperatures between 20–28°C — perfect for outdoor activities. June to August is hotter but still great for water-based activities.
Q: Is Hurghada safe for tourists in 2026? A: Yes. Hurghada is one of Egypt’s most visited and tourist-friendly destinations. The resort areas are well-monitored and millions of international visitors travel there safely every year. Aquila Adventures accompanies you on every excursion to ensure your comfort and safety at all times.
Q: How do I book excursions in Hurghada? A: The easiest and most reliable way is to book in advance through a trusted local operator like Aquila Adventures. This guarantees your spot, locks in the best price, and ensures you receive a professional, licensed guide.
Q: Are Hurghada excursions suitable for children? A: Absolutely. Most of our excursions — including snorkelling, desert safaris, and boat trips — are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. We offer child-friendly options and our experienced guides are brilliant with young travellers.
Q: What currency should I bring to Hurghada? A: Egyptian pounds (EGP) are the local currency, but USD, EUR, and GBP are widely accepted for tourist activities. Aquila Adventures accepts multiple currencies for your convenience.
Ready to Start Your Hurghada Adventure?
Now you know the 10 best things to do in Hurghada in 2026 — the only question is which one to try first.
At Aquila Adventures, we make every excursion easy, safe, and genuinely unforgettable. From the moment we pick you up at your hotel to the moment we drop you back, everything is taken care of so you can focus on having the time of your life.
Book your Hurghada excursion with Aquila Adventures today — and let’s create memories that last a lifetime.
Written by the team at Aquila Adventures — your local experts in Hurghada tourism and Red Sea adventures.
