Safety & Scams
A realistic look at staying safe and avoiding common tourist traps.
The Short Answer
Hurghada is very safe, but as a major tourism hub, it has its share of "tourist traps." Focus on pricing transparency, boat safety, and choosing reputable operators.
Details
Boat Safety: Only book with CDWS-certified operators. Ensure the boat has life vests, a radio, and oxygen on board.
Pricing Transparency: Always agree on prices (taxis, tours, souvenirs) beforehand to avoid awkwardness later.
Tour Sales: Avoid "street hustlers" selling suspiciously cheap trips; these often end in overcrowded boats or hidden costs.
Reef Respect: Never touch or stand on coral. Use reef-safe sunscreen. Ethical operators will always brief you on this.
Local Awareness: In El Dahar (Old Town), prices are more local and fixed, whereas Sheraton Road involves more bargaining.
Last Reviewed: 2026-02-02