Egypt, known as the cradle of ancient civilizations and home to breathtaking monuments, also offers year-round sunshine, pleasant temperatures, and consistent winds. Hurghada is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts, with various spots suitable for all skill levels. This lively Red Sea resort city goes beyond the typical beach getaway. Beneath its sunny skies and turquoise waters, it offers a playground for all. Kiteboarders are drawn here for the reliable winds, especially during the prime season (May to October), when predictable afternoon thermals make it ideal for beginners and experienced riders. Hurghada caters to all adventure seekers. Beginners can enjoy calm, shallow lagoons near the beach, while experienced riders can challenge themselves on the expansive, sandy beaches of Magawish, perfect for freestyle manoeuvres in gradually deepening waters. Numerous kite schools in the area offer rentals, gear storage, and kite setup services. They also organise downwinders, safari tours, and mandatory rescue boat services, ensuring a worry-free experience. Beyond kiteboarding, Hurghada offers a vibrant atmosphere to explore. You can immerse yourself in the city's bustling energy, relax on pristine beaches, or discover Egypt's rich history. Take a day trip to Luxor to marvel at awe-inspiring temples like the Valley of the Kings or explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just offshore. Hurghada promises the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for both kiteboarders and non-kiteboarders, making it a destination that caters to every preference.
VISAS: Obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival at the airport for around €25 (cash). Contact an Egyptian embassy or consulate for details. CURRENCY: Egyptian Pound (EGP), EUR, or USD PRICES: Beer: €1-2 Lunch: €3-8 Accommodation: €20-100 pp Kite Lessons (6 hours): €260 Kite Gear Rental (3 hours): €45 LANGUAGE: Egyptian Arabic INTERNET: Most hotels and villas offer Wi-Fi. Purchase a local SIM or travel SIM card for extended stays or a better connection. TRAVEL ADVICE: Hurghada offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxurious resorts. It's diverse spots and safety measures make it a great destination for solo travellers, families, and kiteboarders of all levels. Drinking water should only be brought from shops or supermarkets, and try avoiding the ice offered in drinks. There is no ATM in most kite schools, but paying with the card machine should be fine. TEMPERATURE: Water temperatures stay above 20°C (68°F) year-round, reaching 28°C (82°F) in summer. A rashguard or light wetsuit is recommended for sun protection, with a thicker option for windy winter days. Air temperatures can reach 32°C (86°F) or higher in summer, dropping to 24°C (75°F) in winter. Sunshine is abundant, but pack a sweater and jeans for evenings.
NEAREST CITY: Hurghada NEAREST AIRPORT: Hurghada International Airport [HRG] If you fly to Hurghada airport, you will need to take a taxi to your chosen spot or hotel. Ask your accommodation provider to organize a reputable transfer. If you are planning to explore the Red Sea coast, you can rent a car from the airport. GETTING AROUND: Depending on your location, you might have access to public transportation, taxis, or hotel shuttles. Renting a car allows for more flexibility to explore different kiteboarding spots around Hurghada. Most kite spots are on a private hotel or resort property, so you might need to check in with the kite schools to gain access. Most kite schools that are further away from the main town offer suttle to the kite spots. Please note that for most beach access, you will have to pay a small fee if you do not stay with them.
Hurghada boasts a variety of beaches and bays, each offering different experiences. You can expect clear water, sandy beaches, and designated kiteboarding zones for your safety and much more. In Hurghada itself, many hotels have private beach access that caters well for kiteboarders. You can arrange for private services to be included in your stay, from gear storage to kite launch service and organize downwinders and safari tours, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free kiteboarding experience for your stay. Alternatively, some hotels offer access to their private beaches for a fee, allowing you to bring your own gear if you stay further from the coast. For more options, there are numerous independent kiteboarding centers scattered along the coast, that even offer a pick up from accomodation service if requested in advance. There are also other spots around Hurghada: Seahorse Bay (North Hurghada): This recently developed area offers a dream scenario for beginners. Imagine a vast, shallow lagoon with calm, flat water and a sandy beach entry. Here, you can focus on mastering your kite control skills without worrying about waves or deep water. Lahami Bay (south of Hurghada): This vast bay offers a mix of beach types, from wide, sandy expanses to areas with rocky outcrops. Here, beginners can find calm, shallow water areas, while experienced riders can explore deeper sections with chop. Some resorts within the bay provide private lagoons, offering a more secluded experience. Magawish (reachable by boat): This paradise for freeriders features a long stretch of pristine, sandy beach with ample launching and landing space. The shallow water area extends quite far, making it ideal for practising before venturing further out. However, due to the popularity and consistent winds, the beach can get crowded during peak season. El Gouna (The Venice of Egypt): This luxurious resort town features several lagoons and beach areas, each with its own character. Some provide flat water perfect for honing your skills, while others offer choppier water for those seeking a challenge. Rescue boat services are available at some spots (availability may vary), adding an extra layer of safety. Soma Bay: This area is well known for the steady and consistent cross-shore to cross-offshore winds, depending on which area of the lagoon you are based on. Due to the wind direction, all of the kite schools offer a compulsory rescue service at additional costs, and that also includes the use of the facilities/storage, beach assistance and anything else you desire. AMENITIES: Kite School, Gear Rental, Beach Assistance, Gear Storage, Kite Shop, Kite/Gear Repair, Toilets, Shower, Parking, Cafe/Bar, Accommodation
Hurghada enjoys consistent northwesterly winds throughout the year. The best time for kiteboarding is from May to October, when the winds are most reliable, typically blowing consistently in the afternoons. Wind speeds usually range from 15-25 knots (17-29 mph), making it suitable for riders of all skill levels. During this period, thermal winds are predominant, providing predictable patterns for easier session planning. From November to April, the off-season, the winds become less consistent. However, there are still kiteable days, at least 3-4 days a week. Wind speeds may be lighter, so it's advisable to bring larger kites (12m+) or to consider hydrofoiling to make the most of your time on the water. Keep in mind that wind conditions can vary based on the specific location within Hurghada. It's highly recommended to consult with local kite schools or check wind forecast websites before your trip to get the most accurate information. WIND DIRECTIONS: N-NW WINDIEST MONTHS: High Season - May, June, July, August, September, October Mid Season - March, April, November
The only restriction in this area is that kiteboarding after 5 pm at any spot, hotel, or resort is prohibited according to Coast Guard regulations. It's important to note that when the tide is low, the water can become quite shallow (knee-deep). As a result, beginners will need to walk out to deeper water for safe water starts. *If you need kite related service like kite repairs, lessons or beach assistance please contact with the local kite centre or camp. ** We always recommend seeking additional knowledge about the spot from local kite schools and qualified instructors locally.
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