Egypt is not only about the pyramids and the Nile—it is also home to some of the most exciting desert safari adventures. Among the top destinations for safari lovers are Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, two Red Sea gems that offer completely different experiences. But which one is better for you? Let’s explore what makes each safari unique, what you can do there, and how to decide which one suits your travel style.
🚙 Safari in Sharm El Sheikh: Desert Meets Mountains
Sharm El Sheikh is famous for its breathtaking combination of desert landscapes and rugged mountains. A safari here is not just about sand dunes—it’s about dramatic scenery.
- Quad Biking Adventures: Sharm’s deserts are perfect for thrilling quad bike rides at sunrise or sunset, where the golden light hits the mountains in a magical way.
- Camel Rides: A classic desert experience, where you get to enjoy a slower pace and connect with Bedouin traditions.
- Bedouin Dinner & Shows: Many safari tours in Sharm end with an authentic Bedouin dinner under the stars, complete with traditional music and fire shows.
- Stargazing: Thanks to its remote desert location, Sharm is one of the best places in Egypt for astronomy lovers.
👉 Safari in Sharm El Sheikh is all about combining adventure with culture, giving you a mix of adrenaline and authentic Bedouin lifestyle.
🏜️ Safari in Hurghada: Endless Dunes and Desert Wonders
Hurghada, on the other hand, offers a different kind of desert safari. While it lacks the dramatic mountains of Sharm, it makes up for it with wide open dunes and smoother rides.
- Jeep Safaris: Hurghada is known for jeep tours across vast desert plains, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
- Buggy Rides: If you want speed and excitement, the desert buggies in Hurghada are a must-try.
- Bedouin Villages: Like Sharm, Hurghada tours often include visits to Bedouin communities, where you can learn about their traditions and enjoy local food.
- Desert Sunsets: The sunsets in Hurghada’s open desert are legendary, perfect for photography and quiet moments.
👉 Safari in Hurghada is more about open-space adventure, making it ideal for families and groups looking for fun and relaxation.
🧭 What Makes Desert Safaris in Egypt Unique?
One of the reasons travelers fall in love with safaris in Egypt—whether in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada—is the balance between adrenaline and authenticity. Unlike safaris in other countries, Egyptian desert tours often combine thrilling rides with cultural encounters, giving you more than just a sightseeing trip.
In Sharm El Sheikh, the highlight for many visitors is the chance to explore the Sinai Mountains. The rocky terrain adds excitement to quad biking, and the silence of the desert at night makes stargazing unforgettable. Some tours even include a professional guide who explains the constellations and planets, making it both educational and magical.
Hurghada, by contrast, offers a softer and more playful experience. The open dunes are perfect for families with kids, as the rides are smoother and less intense than the mountainous tracks of Sharm. Jeep tours are a big hit here, especially because they allow larger groups to share the adventure together. The Bedouin village visits in Hurghada are also a highlight, giving you a glimpse into desert traditions while still being close to the city.
Another unique feature in both cities is the sunset experience. Watching the sun dip below the desert horizon while sipping Bedouin tea is often described by travelers as the most memorable part of their holiday. Whether in Sharm or Hurghada, the sunsets create a golden glow across the sand that feels almost otherworldly.
👉 This blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty is what makes Egyptian safaris stand out globally, and why many visitors say a Red Sea holiday is incomplete without at least one desert tour.
🔍 Sharm vs Hurghada Safari: Key Differences
| Feature | Sharm El Sheikh | Hurghada |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape | Mountains + desert | Open dunes |
| Activities | Quads, camels, stargazing, Bedouin dinners | Jeeps, buggies, Bedouin villages, desert sunsets |
| Vibe | Cultural + adventurous | Relaxed + family-friendly |
| Best For | Adventure seekers & culture lovers | Groups, families & casual travelers |
⭐ Which Safari is Better?
The answer depends on what you are looking for:
- If you want dramatic landscapes, stargazing, and a mix of culture with adventure, then Sharm El Sheikh safari is your best choice.
- If you prefer open deserts, thrilling buggy rides, and family-friendly tours, then Hurghada safari is perfect for you.
Many travelers actually choose to experience both at different times, since each one offers a unique flavor of Egypt’s desert beauty.
Cultural Experiences and Local Hospitality
One of the most underrated aspects of going on a safari in either Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada is the cultural dimension. Beyond the thrill of driving through sandy trails and marveling at desert landscapes, both destinations allow you to connect with Bedouin traditions and local hospitality. In Sharm El Sheikh, safari trips often include a visit to authentic Bedouin camps where you can enjoy traditional tea brewed over open fires, listen to folk music, and even stargaze under the pristine desert sky. The Sinai region, with its spiritual and historic significance, adds a unique atmosphere that makes these cultural encounters even more meaningful.
Hurghada offers similar Bedouin-style experiences, but with its own flavor. Safari tours here frequently incorporate visits to desert villages where travelers can learn about traditional lifestyles, ride camels, and share meals with locals. Because Hurghada’s desert terrain is slightly flatter and less rugged than the Sinai mountains, these interactions often feel more accessible for families with children or travelers who prefer a more laid-back adventure. The warm hospitality of the Bedouins in both regions creates a sense of authenticity that adds depth to the safari experience, transforming it from a simple outdoor excursion into an unforgettable cultural journey.
Additionally, safari tours in both locations often conclude with vibrant evening shows featuring traditional dancing, music, and local cuisine. In Sharm El Sheikh, the performances may have a stronger Sinai Bedouin influence, while in Hurghada, the shows often combine Bedouin elements with Red Sea coastal vibes, offering a slightly different atmosphere. Travelers who are passionate about cultural immersion may find Sharm El Sheikh to be the more mystical and historically charged option, while Hurghada offers a lighter, family-friendly introduction to Bedouin traditions.
🧭 Tips for an Unforgettable Safari
- Best Time: Go during early morning or sunset to avoid the heat and enjoy magical lighting.
- What to Wear: Light breathable clothes, sunglasses, scarf for dust, and comfortable shoes.
- Don’t Forget: Sunscreen, camera, and a sense of adventure!
🌟 Final Thoughts
Whether you choose Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, a desert safari is an essential part of your Red Sea holiday. Each destination offers its own charm—Sharm with its mountains and cultural vibes, Hurghada with its endless dunes and fun rides. Whichever you pick, you’ll leave with memories of thrilling adventures, Bedouin hospitality, and Egypt’s desert magic.
Check out its neighbour Marsa Alam click here
and check the best prices for any activity in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada