Things to Do in Egypt

Beaches and Seaside Resorts

In addition to the pyramids and other remnants of the Pharaonic era, seaside holidays have always been a major selling point for Egypt. Especially since the two activities—cultural and beach—can easily be combined here.

The choice is vast. First and foremost, of course, along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba, even though authorities have now decided to invest in the northern coast with projects like this "New Mediterranean Riviera", designed to ease congestion at traditional sites and, incidentally, reassure some potential visitors with its Mediterranean location.

In short, no problem finding what you're looking for a seaside holiday, with Ras el Hekma and New Alamein as the two new Mediterranean sites, plus the must-visit Hurghada, El Gouna, Sharm el-Sheikh, Marsa Alam, and Dahab, all located on the Red Sea.

Diving

Egypt is undoubtedly one of the world’s best destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling, regardless of your level. The Red Sea offers exceptional visibility, warm water year-round, and incredible biodiversity, with corals and marine species of all kinds. A diving hotspot since the 1950s.

While the activity can be enjoyed in many places, the regions of Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, as well as Dahab and its famous Blue Hole—though reserved for experienced divers—remain the most interesting and sought-after spots. Everywhere, you’ll find suitable facilities with the necessary equipment and supervision, at affordable rates for the most common dives.

Water Sports

Though the offering is much smaller than for diving, the Red Sea coastline also allows for kiteboarding and windsurfing, thanks to the regular winds around El Gouna, Dahab, and the area near Hurghada.

Otherwise, kayaking can be tried at sea as well as on the Nile, while surfing—a secondary activity—is mainly practiced on the Mediterranean coast around Alexandria, since the Red Sea, as an enclosed sea, is hardly suitable for the sport.

Thalassotherapy and Wellness

Often linked to hotel complexes and Red Sea resorts, thalassotherapy has carved out a place in Egypt. In fact, in Soma Bay, a few kilometers south of Hurghada, stands one of the world’s largest centers: 7,500 m² dedicated to the activity, making it the country’s top spot. Other centers can be found elsewhere, such as around Alexandria or in Cairo.

Hiking

It’s not necessarily the most sought-after activity in Egypt, but it’s still possible to enjoy some great hikes in the country. Particularly in the Sinai region, by far the most iconic spot for walking. The only downsides are the heat, which limits the "good season" to October through April, and the security situation in this part of the country, which may restrict access depending on current events. That said, climbing Mount Sinai to watch the sunrise, tackling Mount Saint Catherine—the country’s highest peak at 2,642 meters—or experiencing the "Sinai Trail" (200 km of walking) remain unforgettable adventures.

Outside Sinai, opportunities also exist in the Eastern Desert around Hurghada, for an immersion in Bedouin culture, arid lands, canyons, and rocky peaks. Near Cairo, the Wadi Degla canyon is ideal for a day hike. As for the White Desert, traditionally popular for trekking, its security situation (close to Libya) means it may not be a priority...

Camel Trekking

It’s the iconic image of the Sahara: a caravan of camels (actually dromedaries) against a backdrop of dunes. In Egypt, as in Tunisia or Morocco, you can take such rides. Here, as elsewhere, you’ll find short excursions of a few hours near seaside resorts like Hurghada and Sharm, or even the highly touristy hour-long ride at the foot of the pyramids on the Giza plateau. For those seeking more, longer multi-day experiences are available, generally in the same regions as trekking, particularly in Sinai.

Outdoor and Nature Activities

Hunting and Fishing

While hunting remains a minor and highly regulated activity in Egypt—limited to waterfowl in the Nile Delta or desert sand partridges—fishing is much more developed. Great opportunities for big-game fishing (swordfish, tuna...) exist in the Red Sea, or at Lake Nasser for those interested in Nile perch.

Golf

Golf is a long-standing tradition in the country, which now boasts around twenty courses, mostly around the capital and the main Red Sea resorts.

Cultural Life and Activities

Beyond the countless archaeological sites and museums—including must-sees in the capital like the Egyptian Museum, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, and especially the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) at the foot of the pyramids—a cultural trip can also revolve around the festivals and events the country offers. Starting with the Sound and Light shows and nighttime spectacles at the Giza pyramids, the Karnak Temple in Luxor, or the Philae Temples in Aswan. Some of these sites can also be discovered during unforgettable hot-air balloon flights.

Nightlife and Going Out

While it doesn’t match the intensity of other tourist destinations, Egypt still offers a decent selection of nightlife spots. As expected, these are mainly around the capital and the seaside resorts, with Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh standing out as the country’s most vibrant nightlife hubs.