Things To Do
in Al Ghardaqah

A fisherman’s rice dish with fish, onions and fragrant spices; often found at local seafood restaurants and small family eateries.

Must-Try!

Fresh-caught reef fish simply grilled with lemon and garlic—common at marina and beachside restaurants.

Egypt’s national comfort food of rice, lentils, pasta and tomato sauce—cheap, filling and available at casual eateries.

Slow-cooked fava beans typically eaten at breakfast; widely available in local cafés and street stalls.

Local fresh produce, spices and small food stalls; try fresh fruit, ful and Egyptian bread while experiencing an authentic market atmosphere.

Street vendors near the corniche sell quick snacks like falafel, shawarma and freshly squeezed juices—great for affordable bites.

Dress modestly outside resort and beach areas—cover shoulders and knees in local neighborhoods and when visiting mosques. Swimwear is fine on beaches and at pools.

Use polite greetings, avoid public displays of affection, and be mindful when photographing people—ask permission first, especially women.

Respect prayer times and avoid loud behavior near mosques; during Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours out of courtesy.

Many Egyptian men are conservative; some women may not shake hands—follow the lead of your local counterpart and be polite.

Long, very hot and dry days (June–August) with temperatures often above 35°C (95°F). High sun exposure—plan water activities in morning or late afternoon and use strong sun protection.

Warm and pleasant (September–November) with cooling evenings; excellent time for diving and outdoor activities as the sea stays warm.

Mild daytime temperatures (December–February) around 18–24°C (64–75°F) and cooler nights—good for sightseeing, desert trips and lower hotel rates.

Warm days and occasional khamsin/sand-wind events in March–May; ideal for snorkeling and wind sports but be prepared for sporadic dusty winds.

Short guided hikes and walks across sand dunes and rocky desert near Hurghada—best done with a local guide who knows the routes and Bedouin camps.

Guided hikes into nearby wadis and dry riverbeds offer opportunities to see desert flora, rock formations and ancient inscriptions on organized tours.

Low-key coastal walks on Giftun and nearby islets after landing from boat trips—good for scenic views and photography rather than strenuous hiking.

A longer drive to South Sinai for those who want a serious hike and sunrise summit experience; typically a 4–5 hour drive each way and best arranged as an overnight or guided tour.

Main airport serving the city with domestic and many international routes; about 10–20 minutes from the main hotel areas, with taxis and airport transfers readily available.

Located south of Hurghada (~3–4 hour drive), used for direct flights from some European cities and convenient if visiting southern Red Sea resorts.

Egypt’s largest airport, approx. 4–6 hours by car or a short domestic flight away—useful for international connections if direct flights to Hurghada are limited.

Located north of Hurghada (~3–4 hours by car), an alternative for travelers combining Red Sea and Nile Valley visits; domestic flights link Luxor and Hurghada intermittently.

Majority of residents are Egyptian nationals working in tourism, fishing, retail and services; family-owned businesses and markets reflect local life.

Traditional Bedouin groups live in surrounding deserts and sometimes work in tourism as guides or hosts for desert experiences.

A small community of expats and seasonal staff from Europe, Asia and elsewhere support hotels, dive centers and restaurants.

Visitors from Europe, Russia, the Middle East and elsewhere swell the population seasonally, shaping the city’s services and entertainment offerings.

The region is famous for diving around coral reefs, wrecks and abundant marine life, with dive centers offering training from beginner to advanced levels.

Wind-dependent sports that attract visitors during windy seasons; rental and instruction options are widely available.

Common recreational activities on resort beaches and in hotel pools, popular with tourists and locals alike.

The most popular sport among locals; informal matches are common in neighborhoods and schools.

Vegetarian options are available (koshari, falafel, salads, stuffed vegetables). Inform vendors you don’t eat meat and ask about use of butter/ghee; many tourist restaurants have clear vegetarian choices.

Vegan choices exist but are more limited—stick to legumes, rice dishes, salads and grilled vegetables and confirm no dairy in sauces.

Traditional Egyptian cuisine features rice and legumes, but breads and sauces can contain gluten; ask staff at restaurants about ingredients and avoid street breads if you need strict gluten-free dining.

Most meat in Hurghada is halal by default; seafood and vegetarian dishes are widely acceptable for Muslim travelers.