Egypt engages travelers with amazing activities that range from underwater exploration to desert adventures. The country's natural landscapes create extraordinary experiences. Sand dunes reach heights over 30 meters and the Red Sea features some of the world's most vibrant coral reefs.
Things to do in Egypt are incredibly diverse and appealing. The country offers unforgettable experiences, and many all-inclusive Egypt Tours package them at surprisingly available prices. You can choose between diving in crystal-clear waters or starting a safari adventure. Desert safaris cost between $50 to $200 per person, while Red Sea scuba diving starts at just $20.
The country's five distinctive oases - Siwa, Kharga, Dakhla, Farafra, and Al Bahariya - each have their own unique charm. A week-long trip to find Egypt's treasures, including historical sites and one of the classic Nile Cruises, costs around $1,600.
This piece highlights our favorite Egyptian experiences, especially when you have the chance to contrast the colorful underwater world of the Red Sea with the mesmerizing desert landscapes. Traditional Bedouin encounters and thrilling outdoor activities make your Egyptian adventure perfect. We've included all the essential details you need to plan your trip.
The Red Sea coastline has some of Egypt's most exciting adventures. I've been in these waters many times, and few places match its spectacular marine life and breathtaking desert views.
Sharm El Sheikh is Egypt's premier diving destination. The waters here are home to over 1,000 fish species and 200 coral types. My dives at Ras Mohammed National Park brought me face to face with reef sharks, graceful manta rays, and schools of colorful fish swimming through vibrant coral gardens.
Beginners can learn from PADI-certified schools that offer discovery dives starting at $60. Experienced divers should check out the Thistlegorm wreck, a WWII cargo ship that's one of the world's best dive sites. The crystal-clear waters often let you see beyond 30 meters, which makes it ideal for underwater photography.
Dahab features one of Egypt's most iconic spots—the famous Blue Hole. This underwater sinkhole plunges to depths of 120 meters, but as a snorkeler, I stayed near the reef edges where sea life thrives.
You can walk right into the water from the shore at many spots. Local guides offer half-day snorkeling tours for about $20, including gear rental. The stunning contrast between turquoise shallows and deep blue depths creates an unforgettable sight.
The quad biking tours near Hurghada are a thrilling way to experience Egypt. These 2-3 hour adventures cost $35-45 per person. You'll race across golden dunes with the Red Sea sparkling in the distance, giving you the perfect mix of desert exploration and coastal beauty.
Most safari packages include visits to Bedouin camps where you'll taste traditional tea and flatbread. Book through reputable operators who provide safety gear and experienced guides who know the terrain well.
Sunset camel rides offer peaceful yet memorable moments among Egypt's activities. These "ships of the desert" have carried travelers for centuries. Watching the sun set below the horizon from camelback is an experience you won't forget.
A one-hour ride costs $15-25 per person. The gentle swaying takes time to get used to but gives you a unique view of the coastline. Many tours end with traditional Bedouin hospitality, making it more than just a ride—it's a complete cultural experience in Egypt.
Egypt's famous coastlines are just the beginning. The real adventure lies in its deserts. My extensive exploration confirms that desert safaris are among Egypt's top attractions for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Here are some exciting things to do in Egypt, including your desert safari adventure. Most journeys start from one of the five major oases. Bahariya sits 365km from Cairo and remains the most available option.
The tours have 4x4 vehicles, meals cooked by Bedouin guides, and camping gear. You'll get a true cultural experience as you share tea and stories with local Bedouins.
The White Desert National Park stands as one of Egypt's most unique tourist spots I've ever seen. Snow-like calcium rock formations create a landscape that seems from another world.
The stark contrast with the Black Desert's volcanic rocks next door makes for amazing photo opportunities. Your journey will take you to Crystal Mountain where loose crystals make the ground glitter.
Adrenaline seekers will love sandboarding - one of Egypt's best adventures. The Great Sand Sea near Siwa Oasis stretches across 72,000 km² with massive dunes perfect for this sport.
Fayoum's dunes sit just two hours from Cairo and are a great alternative. Tours start at $60. Think of it as snowboarding on sand - anyone can try it, regardless of their skill level.
A night under the Sahara's star-filled sky will stay with you forever. Guides set up cozy camps with mattresses and blankets. You'll enjoy tasty Bedouin BBQ dinners around a campfire. Locals call this the "Million Star hotel" experience, and they're right.
The best time to plan your safari runs from October to April when temperatures are mild. Your bag should have plenty of water, sunscreen, and warm clothes for the cool desert nights. Picking guides who know the terrain well will give you both safety and an authentic Egypt desert experience.
The desert's original inhabitants provide a unique cultural immersion that ranks among Egypt's most enchanting experiences. My time in Egypt's sandy expanses taught me how Bedouin hospitality turns a simple desert safari into something deeply meaningful and personal.
Bedouin hospitality is the life-blood of desert traditions. These wonderful people welcomed me like royalty at their camps before I could even ask for anything. Their habak mint tea ritual means much more than just a refreshing drink - it's their way of showing genuine welcome.
The tea comes from a mint-like herb growing in Sinai's winter desert and tastes unlike anything else I've tried. The camps feature traditional tents with a woven curtain (ma'nad) that separates the men's reception area (mag'ad) from the women's space (maharama).
The desert's most magical moments happen at night. The star-filled sky creates memories you'll never forget. Expert guides point out Saturn and other celestial wonders during these desert tours. Amateur astronomers love these tours since they come equipped with powerful telescopes that bring distant planets up close.
A real Bedouin BBQ features fresh chicken and kofta grilled over coal, served with rice and potatoes. Bread lovers will fall hard for the Bedouin bread that comes straight from the oven.
The evening turns magical when everyone gathers around an open fire for traditional music. These authentic performances, complete with belly dancing and fire shows, make Egypt travel truly unforgettable.
Real cultural exchange happens beyond typical tourist spots. Bedouins naturally protect their environment by closing valleys periodically so vegetation can regrow.
They keep their traditional crafts alive, though younger generations adapt to modern life. Their steadfast dedication to their land strikes a chord with visitors looking for authentic Egyptian experiences.
The right timing and preparation are significant factors that make Egypt's incredible activities worthwhile. My experience shows that good planning can turn a regular trip into an exceptional adventure.
The best outdoor experiences happen between November and April with mild temperatures. The daytime temperatures stay between 60-70°F - perfect weather to explore ancient sites without getting overwhelmed by heat.
Different activities need different timing. Summer months (June-August) give you warm waters and great visibility for Red Sea diving. Desert safaris work best from October to March because cooler weather makes adventures more comfortable.
The sweet spots come during spring (March-May) and fall (September-October). These seasons let you combine activities since temperatures stay warm enough for desert exploration while remaining ideal for water activities.
Smart packing means being ready for both environments. My desert adventure essentials are:
Red Sea activities need:
Winter months (December-February) need extra layers since temperatures can drop to the high 40s at night.
Finding a reputable tour operator is a crucial first step. When you start exploring different Egypt Tours, you'll find companies like Djed Egypt Travel that get great reviews for their customized itineraries and knowledgeable guides.
Tour costs range from $50-200 per person based on duration and what's included. Authentic desert tours should offer Bedouin-led experiences with overnight camping options.
Egypt's underwater wonders and desert landscapes make an amazing combination in a single trip.
A 6-day split works great - three days in coastal spots like Dahab or Sharm El Sheikh for diving, then three days exploring desert attractions. Many travelers even extend their trip to include one of the incredible Nile Cruises for the ultimate "surf and turf" adventure through Egypt's modern and ancient worlds.
The "6-day Safari Desert and Diving" package offers smooth combination trips. You get certified diving in the Red Sea's vibrant coral reefs and desert exploration in the Sinai with Bedouin hosts.
From the kaleidoscopic depths of the Red Sea's coral reefs to the awe-inspiring silence of the Sahara under a blanket of stars, Egypt presents a captivating array of experiences for every type of traveler.
Whether you're drawn to the thrill of diving alongside vibrant marine life, the adrenaline rush of quad biking across endless dunes, or the profound cultural immersion of sharing tea with Bedouins, Egypt offers unforgettable adventures at surprisingly accessible prices.
With a little planning regarding the best times to travel and what to pack, you can seamlessly blend underwater wonders with desert escapades, creating a truly remarkable and personalized Egyptian journey.
The memories forged in this land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes will undoubtedly linger long after you've returned home, beckoning you to explore its many facets once more, perhaps from the deck of one of the legendary Nile Cruises.
Q1. What are the main types of outdoor activities available in Egypt?
Egypt offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, primarily focusing on Red Sea adventures like diving and snorkeling, and desert safaris. You can experience diving in Sharm El Sheikh (starting at $20), snorkeling in Dahab's Blue Hole (around $20 for tours), quad biking in Hurghada's desert ($35-45), and sunset camel rides ($15-25). For desert adventures, options include jeep tours in the White and Black Deserts, sandboarding in Fayoum and Siwa (tours start at $60), and camping under the stars in Bahariya.
Q2. How much do popular activities like desert safaris and Red Sea diving typically cost?
Desert safaris generally cost between $50 to $200 per person, depending on the duration and inclusions. Red Sea scuba diving starts at just $20 for basic dives, while discovery dives for beginners can be around $60. Quad biking tours are typically $35-45, and snorkeling tours are about $20, including gear rental.
Q3. What is the best time of year to visit Egypt for outdoor activities?
The best time for outdoor activities in Egypt is generally between November and April, when temperatures are mild (60-70°F during the day). Summer months (June-August) are ideal for warm waters and good visibility for Red Sea diving, while desert safaris are more comfortable from October to March due to cooler weather. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) offer a good balance for combining both types of activities.
Q4. What are some unique cultural experiences to have in the Egyptian desert?
The Egyptian desert offers rich cultural encounters, particularly with the Bedouin people. You can visit Bedouin camps and share traditional habak mint tea, learn about their desert life and environmental protection practices, enjoy traditional BBQ dinners with music and performances (including belly dancing and fire shows), and experience mesmerizing stargazing nights in the Sahara with expert guides.
Q5. Can I combine Red Sea diving and desert safaris in a single trip to Egypt?
Yes, it's highly recommended and easily achievable to combine both Red Sea diving and desert safaris in one trip. The article suggests a 6-day split, with three days dedicated to coastal activities like diving in Dahab or Sharm El Sheikh, and three days exploring desert attractions. There are even "6-day Safari Desert and Diving" packages available that seamlessly integrate both experiences.
The Best of Egypt: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Sharm El Sheikh
Explore Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm El Sheikh on an unforgettable 12-day tour of Egypt.
5Impecable
Guide in english
Giza Pyramids, Nile by Air Tour
Explore Egypt's wonders with a Nile cruise, visiting the Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, and more in an unforgettable 8-day journey.
5Impecable
Guide in english
Cairo, Nile Cruise & Hurghada Holiday
Explore Egypt’s ancient wonders, including the Pyramids, Nile cruise, and Red Sea relaxation in Hurghada.
5Impecable
Guide in english
5-Day Egypt: Cairo & Luxor
Embark on a journey through the heart of ancient Egypt. From the streets of Cairo to the wonders of Luxor, this trip promises to leave you in awe.
5Impecable
Guide in english
Pyramids, Nile Cruise & Abu Simbel
Experience Egypt’s iconic sights, including the pyramids, Abu Simbel, and Nile Cruise, with guided tours and local culture.
5Impecable
Guide in english
Explore related stories
