Egypt All-Inclusive Holidays: An Expert’s Guide to the Land of the Pharaohs
Welcome to Egypt, where ancient wonders like the pyramids meet modern luxury along Egypt’s stunning Red Sea coast. Inclusive holidays to Egypt offer a convenient and cost-effective way to explore key attractions, including the Pyramids of Giza. Visitors can also explore the tombs of famous Pharaohs and marvel at the iconic Sphinx.
We’ve consulted local tourism experts to create your definitive guide to all-inclusive holidays in Egypt, combining practical resort information with essential cultural insights and safety tips.
Choosing Your Perfect Location
Dr. Ahmed Hassan, Egyptian tourism director with 25 years of experience, explains: “While Sharm El Sheikh offers world-class diving and adventure trips, Hurghada provides a perfect mix of resort life and authentic experiences. Each region has its distinct character and appeal.” A holiday to Egypt promises a blend of historical exploration and luxurious relaxation, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.
Resort Areas Overview
Sharm El Sheikh
- Best for: Divers, luxury seekers, families
- Known for: World-class diving, Naama Bay, coral reefs
- Atmosphere: International, sophisticated
- Distance from airport: 15 minutes
- Beach type: Sandy with coral reefs
- Special note: Protected marine areas
Popular Areas in Sharm
- Naama Bay
- Lively hub with restaurants and shops
- Main nightlife area
- Established resorts
- Sharks Bay
- Quieter, upmarket area
- Family-friendly
- Premium resorts
- Nabq Bay
- Developing area
- Newer resorts
- Peaceful atmosphere
Hurghada
- Best for: Families, water sports enthusiasts
- Known for: Long beaches, water parks, marina, colourful marine life
- Atmosphere: Mix of tourist and local life
- Distance from airport: 15 minutes
- Beach type: Long sandy beaches with crystal clear waters
- Special note: Good for desert excursions
Popular Areas in Hurghada
- Sahl Hasheesh
- Luxury resorts
- Private beaches
- Upmarket atmosphere
- El Gouna
- Venice-like canals
- Golf courses
- Boutique shopping
- Makadi Bay
- Family-friendly
- Protected bay
- All-inclusive focused
Marsa Alam
- Best for: Peace seekers, diving enthusiasts
- Known for: Unspoiled reefs, dolphin house
- Atmosphere: Tranquil, exclusive
- Distance from airport: Varies by resort
- Beach type: Pristine beaches and reefs
- Special note: Emerging destination
Climate and When to Visit
Mohammed El-Sayed, meteorologist and tour guide, shares: “Egypt’s Red Sea coast enjoys year-round sunshine with very little rainfall. Summer can be very hot, while winter offers perfect temperatures. No trip to Egypt is complete without experiencing its renowned attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the exceptional diving opportunities in the Red Sea.”
Seasonal Overview
Spring (March-May)
- Temperature: 25-35°C
- Rainfall: Rare
- Sea temperature: 22-25°C
- Perfect for: All activities
- Special note: Ideal temperatures
Summer (June-August)
- Temperature: 35-45°C
- Rainfall: None
- Sea temperature: 26-28°C
- Perfect for: Water activities
- Special note: Very hot inland
Autumn (September-November)
- Temperature: 25-35°C
- Rainfall: Rare
- Sea temperature: 25-27°C
- Perfect for: All activities
- Special note: Perfect conditions
Winter (December-February)
- Temperature: 20-25°C
- Rainfall: Occasional
- Sea temperature: 21-23°C
- Perfect for: Sightseeing
- Special note: Can be windy
Beyond Your Resort
Must-See Attractions
Local Excursions
- Quad biking in the desert
- Bedouin dinner experiences
- Submarine trips
- Glass bottom boat tours
- Luxor day trips
Diving & Snorkelling
- Ras Mohammed National Park
- Tiran Island
- Dolphin House
- The Brothers Islands
- Abu Dabbab
Cultural Sites
- Old Market (Hurghada)
- Coptic Church
- El Dahar Square
- Al-Sahaba Mosque
- Local museums
Activities and Experiences
Water Activities
- Scuba diving (PADI courses available)
- Snorkeling trips
- Parasailing
- Kitesurfing
- Glass bottom boats
- Submarine tours
- Fishing trips
Desert Experiences
- Quad biking
- Camel rides
- Bedouin camps
- Star gazing
- Desert safaris
Dining and Cuisine
Chef Hassan Mahmoud, culinary director at a leading resort, advises: “While all-inclusive resorts offer international cuisine, don’t miss authentic Egyptian dishes. Many resorts now include local specialties in their menus.”
Local Specialties
- Koshary (national dish)
- Fresh seafood
- Molokhia
- Ful medames
- Om Ali (dessert)
Dining Tips
- Breakfast: 7-10:30am
- Lunch: 12:30-3pm
- Dinner: 6:30-10:30pm
- Ramadan: Special timings
- Dress code: Smart casual
Practical Information
Essential Safety Tips
- Stick to bottled water
- Use resort transport services
- Book excursions through hotel
- Keep valuables in room safe
- Respect local customs
- Use regulated taxis
Money Matters
- Currency: Egyptian Pound
- ATMs: Available in resort areas
- Credit cards: Widely accepted
- Tipping: Expected (see tipping guide)
- Resort extras: Check inclusions
Health and Safety
- Travel insurance: Essential
- Hospital: International hospitals available
- Pharmacies: Well-stocked
- Sun protection: Critical
- Food safety: Follow guidelines
Cultural Insights
Local Customs
- Dress modestly outside resorts
- Ramadan observances
- Photography permissions
- Alcohol restrictions
- Public behavior guidelines
Language Tips
- Hello: Salam aleikum
- Thank you: Shukran
- Please: Min fadlak
- Yes: Aywa
- No: La
Tipping Culture (Baksheesh)
Tourism expert Fatima Hussein explains: “Tipping is an important part of Egyptian culture, known as ‘baksheesh’.”
Resort Tipping Guidelines
- Housekeeping: £E20-30 per day
- Waiters: £E20-30 per day
- Bartenders: £E15-20 per day
- Pool/Beach staff: £E15-20 per day
- Spa treatments: 10%
External Services
- Tour guides: £E100-150 per day
- Drivers: £E50-100 per day
- Taxi drivers: Round up fare
- Baggage handlers: £E10 per bag
Health and Safety Tips
Dr. Aisha Mohammed, health and safety consultant, advises:
- Drink only bottled water
- Use high SPF sunscreen
- Follow food safety guidelines
- Respect marine life
- Use resort transport services
- Keep valuables secure
- Have travel insurance
- Carry emergency numbers
Expert Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay
- Book diving/excursions early. Sounds like a great way to ensure you don’t miss out on the best experiences.
- Use resort water for teeth brushing.
- Carry small notes for tips.
- Respect prayer times.
- Book popular restaurants ahead.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen. Head to Makadi Bay for relaxation or participate in activities at the Red Sea to make the most of your holiday.
Planning Your Perfect Holiday
Best Time to Book
- Summer: 6 months ahead
- Winter sun: 4-6 months ahead
- Christmas/New Year: 8-10 months
- Ramadan: Check dates and book early
Package Types
- Standard all-inclusive
- Ultra all-inclusive
- Family packages
- Adult-only options
- Diving packages
- Luxury all-inclusive
Final Recommendations
“Egypt offers an unmatched combination of year-round sun, world-class diving, and ancient culture, allowing travelers to follow in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and experience the magic of the Red Sea,” says Dr. Hassan. “Choose a resort that matches your needs, but don’t miss the opportunity to experience local culture and natural wonders. Explore the wonders of Egypt, from the Pyramids to the vibrant marine life.”
Explore Egypt
Note: All expert recommendations are based on professional experience in Egyptian tourism and hospitality. Always check current travel advice and contact specific travel agents for current offerings and availability.