A hammam is a traditional bath house ritual, and Hurghada has several spas that offer a version of it for visitors. A typical session begins with time in a steam room and sauna to open the pores, followed by a scrub with a rough mitt and soap foam, then a massage and sometimes a jacuzzi. The VIP Turkish and Moroccan style session combines bath, massage, sauna and jacuzzi in one visit, and many venues include a hotel pickup. It is not a sightseeing day, but it is a very good one after a long boat trip, a desert safari or a day in the sun, and it suits couples, friends and anyone who wants a quiet, indulgent afternoon. Pricing is modest compared with Europe, but quality varies, so choose a well-reviewed venue and confirm exactly what your session includes.
What happens
After you change into a towel or disposable wear, you spend time in the heat, then an attendant scrubs your skin and rinses you with warm water. The massage that follows is usually an oil or aromatherapy massage of around half an hour to an hour, depending on the package. A jacuzzi and relaxation area often come at the end, with tea or a soft drink. The whole visit lasts a couple of hours, so you can fit it into an afternoon between other plans.
Choosing well
Look at what is included, whether the massage is private or in a shared room, whether staff are the same gender as you if that matters, and how long each part lasts. A reputable spa is clean, explains each step and lets you ask for lighter pressure. Be wary of high-pressure upselling at the end of a session, and agree on any extras before they begin. Couples can often book side by side, which is an easy way to share the experience.
Practical points
Avoid a heavy meal beforehand, and drink water afterwards. Skip the hammam if you have a heart condition, low blood pressure, a recent sunburn or are pregnant, and ask your doctor if you are unsure. Bring a small amount of cash for tips. If you have been burned by the sun, wait a day or two, because scrubbing sensitive skin is uncomfortable. Pair a spa afternoon with a quiet dinner in town, and plan it between active days rather than before an early boat departure.
What to expect
The experience
A spa session combining steam room, sauna, scrub, massage and jacuzzi, with hotel transfer on many packages.
Best time
Afternoons after an active day, or a rest day between excursions.
How long
A couple of hours, plus transfers.
Tips
Confirm what is included, avoid a heavy meal beforehand, ask for lighter pressure if you want it, and bring small notes for tips.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a restful, indulgent afternoon after a busy day on the water or in the desert.
- Families
- Mostly for adults and older teenagers; ask about age limits before you book.
- Couples
- Ideal for couples, with side-by-side sessions often available.
- Pair with
- A quiet dinner in town, or the day after a long boat trip.
- Time needed
- A half day.
Good questions
What is a hammam?+
A traditional steam bath ritual with heat, a scrub and a massage. The Hurghada version often adds a sauna and jacuzzi.
How long does a session last?+
Usually a couple of hours including relaxation time, though the exact length depends on the package you choose.
Is a hotel transfer included?+
Many packages offer pickup and drop-off, but check your ticket and any extra charge for outlying areas.
Who should avoid a hammam?+
Anyone with a heart condition, low blood pressure, fresh sunburn or pregnancy should skip it or ask a doctor first.
Should I tip?+
A small tip is customary for the staff. Bring small notes so you are not caught short.
