Honest Review: Hurghada 5-in-1 Safari – Is It Worth It?

Dreaming of dusty desert landscapes, exciting rides, and a taste of Egyptian culture? So, the Hurghada 5-in-1 safari sounds pretty tempting, right? It’s almost got everything thrown in, from tearing across the sands on a quad bike to a laid-back camel trek, wrapping up with a dinner show under the stars. Yet, is it really the amazing adventure it makes out to be? I took the plunge to find out and to share my firsthand scoop.

What’s Included in the Hurghada 5-in-1 Safari?

First, it’s worth pointing out what you’re signing up for. Typically, the “5-in-1” safari bundles together a jeep ride to a desert base, a quad biking adventure, a dune buggy experience, a camel ride, and an evening dinner show. Depending on the operator, that, you might also find things such as visits to Bedouin villages, opportunities to sample local tea, and maybe stargazing sessions are tagged on.

The itinerary is designed to pack a day full of experiences, which is that, for some, can be a real draw. But keep in your mind that “packed” doesn’t always translate to “high-quality”. The appeal really does lie in variety, that is you get a little taste of a lot of things rather than really getting to experience one thing properly. Very soon, let’s break down each part of the safari and chat about what’s actually good, what’s not-so-good, and everything else.

The Jeep Ride: Bumpy Start?

The adventure kicks off with a jeep ride, whisking you away from the resort toward the desert. Now, I’ll be upfront, this part is that rarely about scenic views or comfortable cruising. Typically, it’s a fairly bumpy ride, with the jeeps needing some care and attention. Be prepared to feel every single bump along the way as you go deeper into the desert.

That said, it’s important to try to enjoy it as that first taste of the desert landscape. That arid scenery has, actually, a stark beauty, and this is a pretty amazing way to get away from the city. The drivers usually have some expertise too, as I was saying, so try not to get too worried, even when you seem to be flying over the dunes.

Quad Biking: Adrenaline Rush or Dust Cloud?

For many, quad biking is that the real highlight. It is just that, you hop onto a quad bike and zoom across the sandy expanse. It looks really amazing to be free and in control, bouncing over the dunes, wind in your hair. However, it isn’t quite always that movie scene you may picture. Although seemingly liberating, there tend to be things to know.

Safety is something that, should always be your biggest focus. Many operators offer brief instructions, as a matter of fact, but those aren’t consistently comprehensive. Wear the helmet they give you, it’s almost vital, and try to maintain a good distance from other riders. Also, expect dust and lots of it! A bandana or scarf to cover your face is that a must-pack item, truly. Even though I knew to expect it, it felt a bit overwhelming; in my beard, in my teeth – everywhere. Still, it felt fantastic, though, and worth the grit.

Dune Buggy: Another Ride, Similar Feel?

Next up is the dune buggy experience. It can be a blast for some, but others may find that a bit, too repetitive if you have already been quad biking. The dune buggies typically are two-seaters, so it is almost possible to share the fun with somebody.

Keep in mind, though, the quality and condition can really vary. Check the buggy before you set off, and don’t hesitate to ask for a swap if anything seems off. Still, the sensation of zooming up and down dunes does tend to bring out a sense of glee and, basically, it offers different views from a slightly different machine. Even with the safety caveats, and I’ll say that again, it is that a fun experience for those who want to test their mettle on the dunes.

Camel Ride: Short and Sweet?

You know, no trip to the desert is totally done until you have hopped on a camel. Yet, don’t imagine hours spent drifting through the sands just like Lawrence of Arabia. These camel rides can often be a little more than photo opportunities. They might tend to be short and carefully controlled loops designed more for that, experience than true exploration.

If, in a way, you have never ridden a camel, it’s still very amazing to give it a go. The swaying gait can be a bit awkward to begin with, but in the end it’s fun. Often, it’s worth being ready with your camera. That moment in the saddle could produce your standout holiday snap, and it is that good memories of times shared with unique creatures of the desert. I find the elegance and adaptability to nature just so good to watch, and to sit on it is something else!

Bedouin Village & Dinner Show: Culture or Tourist Trap?

As night approaches, the safari usually takes in a visit to a Bedouin village, winding up with a dinner show. This is, actually, the part that often gets the most mixed feedback. Is it a truly great opportunity to understand Bedouin culture? Or is it very much, just a staged experience for tourists?

Well, the answer isn’t always so obvious. The hospitality shown tends to be real. Also, you can sample local tea and maybe learn about traditional bread-making. On top of that, it’s almost common to see demonstrations of local crafts.

The dinner show typically features belly dancing, and, in addition, maybe some music and fire-eating. Depending on your preferences it’s entertaining. It can offer a glimmer of local artistry and traditions to many others, and it feels like the finale of your experience is, truly, good. With a little luck the stargazing will actually impress after the sun sets, completing this trip to the Egyptian sands.

Is the Hurghada 5-in-1 Safari Worth It?

So, now for the million-dollar issue: Is it actually worth handing over your hard-earned vacation cash? It sort of depends on what you’re hoping to gain.

If that is, you want a jam-packed day filled with a bunch of different activities and aren’t expecting serious authenticity, then arguably, yeah, it could well be fun. For folks on shorter holidays or those wanting a bit of everything, it may just do the trick. That, can also be a truly amazing family activity!

However, if what you need is that a deep cultural experience or seriously heart-thumping adventure, you may end up slightly let down. The activities can often feel rushed, and the Bedouin experience, especially, could feel more like a staged show than the real thing. If your time and finances enable, explore selecting individual excursions which allow time to go fully immersed into the experience. Either way, do some research!

My guidance? Lower expectations a little, prepare for some dust, and think of it as a sampler platter of desert experiences. With that mindset, in my opinion, you may have a blast, alright?

Essential Tips for Your Hurghada Safari

Want to get the absolute most out of your Hurghada 5-in-1 safari? You know, packing these few considerations into mind can certainly make that adventure safer and better:

Wear suitable clothing: Choose comfortable, loose clothes you don’t mind getting dusty. Seriously, it is not a fashion parade. Long sleeves and trousers can certainly help protect from the sun and sand, too.
Protect yourself from the sun: A hat, sunglasses, and that sunscreen are all must-haves. It’s, too, a great idea to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, mostly after the quad biking and buggy rides.
Stay hydrated: Very easily, bring water and stay hydrated, mostly in the heat of the day. You can typically buy bottled water at the camp, that, too.
Cover your face: The aforementioned bandana or scarf is really worthwhile protecting from the sand and dust, that can get quite annoying on the quad bikes.
Listen to instructions: Actually, follow the safety instructions given by the guides, especially prior to the quad biking and dune buggy rides.
Consider travel insurance: Check your travel insurance to ensure, basically, you are covered for the activities you’ll be participating in.

Other Hurghada Excursions to Consider

So, the 5-in-1 safari isn’t exactly up your alley? You can also get an insight into some other trips in the area:

Snorkeling/Diving trips: The waters off Hurghada are actually famous for their marine life. Snorkeling or diving trips to places such as Giftun Island provide a superb day out for that person, seeing coral reefs and exotic fish.
Luxor day trip: Taking in ancient Egypt is on offer with a day trip to Luxor. View locations such as the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Hatshepsut Temple, to see thousands of years of heritage in one day.
City Tour: You can see recent Hurghada with a day tour of the city itself, walking to the docks, visiting a mosque, and checking out a number of marketplaces. They’re almost a must for travelers!