Red Sea Travel Guide

The Red Sea resort towns are some of the most tourism-focused areas in Egypt, so security is very visible. Hotels, malls, and airports use bag scanners and metal detectors, and there are frequent checkpoints on roads. Most visitors feel safe walking around the tourist zones, especially along hotel strips and promenades. Use normal travel habits: keep valuables in your hotel safe, avoid flashing cash, and use registered taxis or ride apps when possible. For solo women, harassment can happen, mostly as unwanted comments or flirting. Dressing modestly when you leave the resort, ignoring provocation, and sticking to busy areas usually reduces hassle. Inside resorts, dress is relaxed and beachwear is normal. Water safety matters too. Respect warning flags on beaches, watch currents, and listen to local guides about marine life. Lionfish, stonefish, and some corals can sting; wearing water shoes near shallow rocky areas helps.

Visa rules depend on your passport and entry point. Many travelers can get a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports, including Sharm, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam. Some nationalities need an e-visa in advance or a visa from an embassy, so check your government travel site or the Egyptian e-visa portal before you book flights. A few things to keep in mind: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. You might need to show proof of onward or return travel. Kids usually need their own passports, even if they travel with parents. Sharm El Sheikh has had special short-stay stamps in the past for Sinai only, but if you plan to visit Cairo, Luxor, or other parts of Egypt in the same trip, get a full tourist visa.

Keep it simple but smart. Weather is usually warm, yet sun and salt can be intense. Helpful items: Light, breathable clothing for daytime, plus a light jacket or hoodie for winter evenings. Swimwear and a cover-up for walking through hotel areas. Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat; the sun is strong even in winter. Water shoes for rocky or coral entry points. A snorkel mask if you like using your own gear. Rental gear is common, but personal masks fit better. Any prescription meds, as finding the exact brand may be harder. For divers, most centers rent all equipment. If you are picky, pack your own mask, regulator, and dive computer. In winter or early spring, a 5 mm wetsuit keeps most divers comfortable.

Yes, and many travelers do exactly that. A popular pattern is: Start in Cairo for the pyramids, museums, and city sights. Fly to Luxor for temples and tombs, and maybe a Nile cruise. End with 4 to 7 days at the Red Sea to rest, snorkel, or dive. Domestic flights between Cairo, Luxor, and the main Red Sea airports are frequent and save a lot of time compared with long bus rides. If you are short on days, pick either Cairo or Luxor to pair with the Red Sea instead of both.

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Costs vary by resort town and hotel level, but the Red Sea can be very good value compared with many beach destinations. A few rough points: All-inclusive resorts in Hurghada and Sharm can be very affordable, sometimes cheaper than bed and breakfast in Europe. Dahab often works out cheaper for food, stays, and diving, with many guesthouses. El Gouna and some Marsa Alam resorts sit at a higher price point, with more upscale stays. Tipping is common in Egypt. You do not need to tip everyone, but small amounts are appreciated: Hotel staff: a few dollars, split across your stay. Restaurant staff: around 10 percent if service is not already included. Dive guides and boat crews: a tip at the end of the trip or liveaboard, often collected in one envelope. Carry some small local notes for quick tips, and only tip for service you are happy with.

Most travelers do not need special vaccines only for Red Sea resorts, but check your usual routine shots are up to date and ask your doctor about any personal risks. The biggest health issues tend to be: Dehydration and heat, so drink more water than you think you need. Sunburn, so use high SPF and reapply often. Stomach upsets, so use bottled water for drinking and be careful with street food. Diving and snorkeling bring their own rules. Do not dive with a cold, leave enough time between your last dive and your flight, and follow your computer or guide for safe depths. If you have any medical condition, bring a note from your doctor and your regular meds. Larger cities like Hurghada and Sharm have clinics and hospitals, but options in remote areas are more limited.