Hurghada For You
A stay in Hurghada is easy to prepare. Here is the essential information to know before you go, gathered by our local team. Requirements change: always check official information (your government's travel advice and the Egyptian embassy) before you travel.
Passport and visa
- A valid passport is required, usually valid for at least 6 months after your entry date.
- For many nationalities (UK, EU, US…), the tourist visa can be obtained online (e-visa on visa2egypt.gov.eg) or on arrival at the airport, for about US$30 for a single entry (fee revised in 2026, check before you go). It allows a 30-day stay.
- Keep a photo of your passport on your phone: it is requested for many excursions (checks at the port and on the road).
Money and payment
- The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP).
- Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas.
- Keep small notes for extras, drinks and tips.
- Cash machines are common in Hurghada; tell your bank before you leave.
Tipping
Tipping ("baksheesh") is part of local culture. It is not compulsory but much appreciated when you are happy: guides, boat crews, drivers, hotel staff.
Arrival at the airport and transfers
Our Transfer service (from 10€ per trip, up to 3 people) meets you at the airport with a driver and takes you to your hotel. It is available to travellers who book at least 2 activities or 1 activity over €80. To get to Cairo or Luxor: Transfers outside Hurghada.
Clothing and culture
- Swimwear at the beach and hotel, more covering clothes in town.
- For mosques: shoulders and knees covered, a scarf for women.
- Ask before photographing someone.
Health
- Drink bottled water.
- Protect yourself from the sun: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hydration.
- Bring a small kit: anti-diarrhoea tablets, travel sickness pills, plasters.
- Travel insurance covering medical costs is strongly recommended.
Internet and phone
Most hotels offer Wi-Fi. To stay reachable on excursions, we recommend a local SIM card (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat / e&, WE), bought at the airport or in a shop with your passport: it is cheaper than a travel eSIM. WhatsApp is the easiest way to contact us during your stay.
Electricity
Egypt uses European two-pin sockets (types C and F) at 220 V. Travellers from the UK and the US need an adapter.
A few useful Arabic words
- Salam aleykoum: hello.
- Shukran: thank you.
- La, shukran: no thank you (very useful at the souk).
- Yalla: let's go!
Bargaining
At the souk and in souvenir shops, prices are negotiated. Stay friendly, set yourself a budget and do not hesitate to walk away. On Hurghada For You excursions, the price is fixed in advance and detailed.
The ideal bag for excursions
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat.
- A towel and a change of swimwear.
- Closed shoes for the desert and sightseeing.
- A light jacket (desert evenings, winter, balloon flight).
- A waterproof camera or GoPro.
Safety
Hurghada is a resort where travellers generally feel safe. As anywhere, keep an eye on your belongings, and book activities with reliable agencies to avoid bad surprises: our tips for booking well.
Checklist before you leave
- Valid passport and visa.
- Travel insurance.
- Digital copy of your passport on your phone.
- Excursions with limited departure days booked.
- Airport transfer booked.
- Our WhatsApp number saved: +20 120 340 4919.
