Practical Hurghada: Transfers, Hotels, Health and Getting Around
Hurghada is one of the easiest Egyptian destinations to navigate. This practical guide covers airport transfers, the resort strip layout, health and diving safety, money exchange, transport to Luxor and general orientation for a smooth stay.
- 1
Hurghada International Airport
The airport receives charter and scheduled flights from across Europe, the Gulf and other Egyptian cities. It sits just 5 km from the hotel strip and taxis are readily available for the short transfer.
- 2
Resort Strip Layout
The main hotel zone stretches 40 km from El Dahar in the north through Dahar and Sekalla to Makadi Bay in the south. Most all-inclusive hotels are concentrated in the middle sections.
- 3
Health and Diving Safety
Hurghada has a decompression chamber for diving accidents. Travel insurance covering diving is essential. Most dive centers conduct medical checks before allowing beginners to dive.
- 4
Luxor Day Trip
Luxor is 4 hours by road or 45 minutes by air from Hurghada. Many tour operators offer guided excursions to the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Luxor Temple on a long day trip.
- 5
Money and Tipping
Egyptian pounds are the local currency. Exchange at banks or official bureaus for better rates. Tipping is customary for guides, drivers and hotel staff and forms a significant part of their income.
- 6
Local Transport
Microbuses connect the main points along the resort strip cheaply but irregularly. Taxis are plentiful and fares should be negotiated before departure. Apps like Uber also operate in Hurghada.