easyJet has announced new direct flights from Newcastle Airport to Hurghada, Egypt, starting October 27. The service, which operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays, offers fares from £121.99 per person each way. Hurghada, once a sleepy fishing village, is now a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving on the Red Sea coast.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The Red Sea's vibrant coral reefs remain the main draw for visitors. The water is warmer and saltier than in other seas, making it ideal for underwater exploration. Novice divers can find plenty of dive centres, while experienced divers can explore wrecks like the 126-metre British cargo ship Thistlegorm. The Giftun Islands, part of a marine reserve, offer rich biodiversity for nature lovers.
Cultural Attractions
The Hurghada Museum, opened in 2020, houses 2,000 artefacts spanning Ancient Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Jewish, Christian, Islamic, and modern periods. Visitors can also admire the Grand Mosque, illuminated at night, and dine at the Halaka Fish Market for an authentic experience.
Desert Safaris
Many tourists venture into the desert on ATVs, quad bikes, or 4x4s, or opt for camel rides. Some tours include dinner under the stars, stargazing, or camping in pristine desert conditions.
Day Trip to Luxor
A four-hour road trip from Hurghada leads to Luxor, home to the Valley of the Kings, Temples of Karnak and Hatshepsut, and Tutankhamun's tomb. Some tours offer a cruise on the River Nile.
Day Trip to the Pyramids and Sphinx
For ambitious visitors, a full-day trip to the Pyramids of Giza—the only surviving wonder of the ancient world—and the Sphinx is possible, often involving a flight from Hurghada. It is an expensive but bucket-list-worthy excursion.
