Safari Adventures and Stars Gazing by Jeep – Hurghada

Exploring Safari Adventures and Stars Gazing by Jeep in Hurghada: An Honest Review

If you’re looking to escape the bright lights of Hurghada and tap into the magic of the desert night sky, the Safari Adventures and Stars Gazing by Jeep tour offers a compelling blend of adventure and awe. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, we’ve gathered insights from travelers who have, along with the detailed itinerary and features, to help you decide if this is the right experience for you.

What stands out about this tour are its affordable price point of around $28.70 per person, its authentic Bedouin-style dinner, and the stellar star gazing experience facilitated by digital telescopes. However, potential travelers should consider the bumpy ride and the somewhat crowded star watching setup—these might not suit everyone. This adventure suits those craving an affordable, lively night under the stars with a taste of Bedouin hospitality and desert scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Enjoy a traditional meal and desert hospitality in a natural setting.
• Stunning Night Skies: Digital telescopes provide a closer look at planets and stars, with some reviews praising the clarity.
• Family and Group Friendly: Group sizes are limited to 25, making it suitable for families or small groups.
• Value for Money: At just under $30, the tour includes dinner, activities, transportation, and star gazing, offering good overall value.
• Mixed Experiences: While some travelers loved the guides and views, others found the organization and facilities lacking.
• Physical Considerations: Moderate physical activity is involved, including camel riding and bumpy jeep rides, so pack accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

From Hurghada to Sahl Hasheesh and Beyond

Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup around 2:30 pm, giving you a comfortable start before heading into the desert landscape. The drive to Sahl Hasheesh is about 20 minutes, and along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Egypt’s desert terrain—a quiet, natural beauty that contrasts sharply with the bustling city of Hurghada.

Crossing into the Desert for a Genuine Bedouin Welcome

Once you arrive, you’ll join other jeeps for a 26 km drive into the wilderness, crossing rugged hills and mountain passes. The ride can be bumpy, as noted by some guests, so if you have back issues or dislike rough terrains, pack accordingly. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering a sense of adventure and anticipation.

Camel Rides and Desert Photos

One of the highlights is a 10-15 minute camel ride—a classic desert activity that offers memorable photo opportunities. Reviewers highlight how enjoyable and authentic this part is; David called it “an enjoyable short drive” and appreciated the chance for unforgettable photos with the camels. The camels are pre-arranged and waiting at a designated spot, creating a perfect photo-op backdrop against the sunset or starry sky.

Bedouin Hospitality and Herbal Tasting

Next, you’ll settle into a traditional Bedouin tent, where you can sample herbal teas and experience local hospitality. The setting is designed to evoke a sense of genuine desert life, although some reviews mention that the organization can be a bit rushed—so don’t expect a leisurely pace.

The Dinner: A Barbeque Feast

While the bedouin-style dinner is described as an open buffet with grilled meats and vegetables, some reviewers suggest the meal may lack some flavor or presentation flair. Still, most agree that it’s a satisfying, hearty meal in a natural setting, adding value to the overall experience.

Star Gazing with Digital Telescopes

As night falls, the main event begins: star gazing through digital telescopes. The experience is often praised for the clarity and the ability to see planets and shooting stars. Angie mentioned the guide was “amazing and knowledgeable,” which added an educational touch. However, a few critics pointed out that there are only two telescopes for a large group, so visibility might be limited during peak times.

The Return Journey

The tour concludes with a relaxed drive back to Hurghada, arriving around 9:30 pm. Keep in mind, the entire experience lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, so prepare for a full evening of desert fun and celestial wonder.

Transportation, Group Size, and Price

This tour uses modern, clean vehicles for transfers, which is a plus, especially after a bumpy desert ride. The group is capped at 25 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere without being overcrowded. At $28.70 per person, the package offers decent value, considering it includes dinner, transportation, camel riding, star gazing, and a guide.

Additional costs may include hotel pickup from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh (extra $5), or other locations like Safaga or Soma Bay (extra $10). Note that governmental safari tax is not included in the price.

The Review: Strengths and Weaknesses

What Travelers Loved

• Knowledgeable Guides: Many guests praised guides like the guide for being “amazing and knowledgeable,” which enhances the experience by adding context and local charm.
• Beautiful Desert and Sunset Views: The drive through desert hills and the sunset visibility are consistently appreciated. David noted it was “quite a long” but worthwhile trip with “nice experience.”
• Authentic Bedouin Hospitality: The herbal tea and tent setup create a genuine desert vibe, making travelers feel immersed in local culture.
• Stargazing Experience: The digital telescopes bring celestial objects closer, with visitors being able to observe planets and shooting stars, which can be quite breathtaking.

Areas for Improvement

• Comfort and Organization: Some reviews mention the bumpy ride and cramped jeep seats, which might bother those with back problems or seeking a smoother experience.
• Star Gazing Setup: With only two telescopes for a group of up to 25 people, the visibility can sometimes be limited, and the experience might feel crowded.
• Meal Quality: While the dinner is hearty, some guests found it lacking in flavor and presentation, suggesting it’s more about the experience than gourmet dining.
• Timing and Pace: The tour can feel rushed or overly packed, especially if you’re expecting more relaxed downtime.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking a lively night out in the desert, blending adventure with culture. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or couples who enjoy a mix of activities—camel riding, star gazing, and local food.

If you prefer luxurious or super comfortable experiences, or if you’re highly sensitive to rough rides and crowds, you might want to consider other options. However, if your goal is an affordable, authentic desert night under the stars, this tour delivers plenty of value.

Final Thoughts

The Safari Adventures and Stars Gazing by Jeep tour in Hurghada offers a compelling blend of desert adventure, cultural authenticity, and celestial wonder—all at an accessible price. While it’s not without its flaws, especially regarding comfort and organization, it excels in providing a genuine taste of Bedouin hospitality and starry skies.

Travelers who enjoy lively group atmospheres, engaging guides, and a mix of activities will find this experience rewarding. It’s a great way to step outside tourist hotspots and connect with the natural environment of Egypt’s desert landscape.

This tour suits those looking for a memorable night adventure that combines fun, culture, and a touch of magic in the skies above Hurghada.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour begins around 2:30 pm, giving you plenty of daylight for activities and a relaxed evening under the stars.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Additional charges apply for pickups from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh (extra $5), and other locations like Safaga, El Gouna, or Soma Bay (extra $10).

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, activities, dinner, and star gazing.

What activities are included in the tour?
Activities include camel riding, desert driving, a Bedouin-style dinner, star gazing with digital telescopes, and enjoying sunset views.

Are the telescopes suitable for everyone?
The digital telescopes offer excellent views, but since only two are available for a group of up to 25, visibility may be limited during busy times.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing for the desert environment, and possibly a jacket for the evening chill. No specific gear is mentioned, but sunglasses and sun protection are useful earlier in the day.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Given the moderate physical activity and bumpy rides, it’s best suited for children who can handle these conditions, but always check with the provider if unsure.

What are the costs involved besides the ticket price?
Additional costs may include extra charges for hotel pickup from certain locations and the governmental safari tax, which is not included in the ticket.

To sum it up, if you’re after an affordable night in the desert filled with adventure, culture, and stars, this tour ticks many boxes. Just prepare for the ride and keep expectations balanced—you’re signing up for a memorable desert adventure that’s as much about the experience as it is about the comfort.