Review: Hurghada Bedouin Craft, Handmade & Star Watching

Visiting Hurghada, Egypt, and really craving a little bit of the local vibe? So, too it’s almost that this experience—Hurghada’s Bedouin Craft, Handmade & Star Watching—might be just what you’re looking for. Very, very different from your typical resort vacation, it offers a glimpse into Bedouin culture, plus it gives you the opportunity to gaze at the desert sky. Very few things are as cool. But how great is it, really? That is, what should you actually expect?

The Drive Into the Desert

First off, the adventure starts with a drive into the desert. Just a little outside Hurghada, the landscape shifts pretty dramatically from bustling tourist spots to quiet, empty expanses. It’s almost like you are moving into another reality, and this, arguably, is actually where the fun really begins. Sometimes the drive itself is quite the experience, especially if you go with a driver who is a bit of a thrill-seeker—bouncing over dunes. That being said, so in some respects, this part might not be great if you are a bit nervous about bumpy rides, nearly everyone finds the views interesting.

Meeting the Bedouins and Their Crafts

When you arrive at the Bedouin camp, you are greeted with the awesome hospitality Bedouins are famous for. This is almost an immersive experience where you are able to see, up close, how they live, how they maintain their traditions, and how they create different handmade things. A bit, just a little, different from touring a museum. Typically, they will demonstrate their craftwork— things like weaving, jewelry creation, and even traditional clothing. So, really, this isn’t just about looking; it’s about seeing the love and the work that goes into each item. That is, sometimes you even have the opportunity to try your hand at it.

The Handmade Aspect: What to Expect

The ‘Handmade’ aspect is really interesting. Very different pieces can be had. The jewelry sometimes features locally sourced stones, too. Often, it is set in simple but stylish designs, that, apparently, reflect the natural world around them. In that case, if you’re keen on taking something home with you that is a little different from the usual tourist souvenirs, anyway this is where you can score some pretty amazing finds. So, do keep in mind though that these are artisan products and are typically unique – meaning that the quality, very really, may vary and each piece truly is one of a kind. As I was saying, be certain to look carefully at anything you consider purchasing. First, because it just ensures you are happy with your souvenir, second for example because it directly supports the Bedouin community.

The Stargazing Experience

When night comes, so finally, the sky shows itself as you have possibly never witnessed it before. The lack of city lights basically allows for incredibly crisp and almost perfect views of the stars. Alright, someone usually guides the stargazing, helping to point out various constellations, planets, and just stuff that’s happening up there. In short, so if you are a fan of astronomy or just appreciate great scenery, it’s almost sure to be one of the best parts of the excursion. Basically, bring a jacket. Deserts can get pretty chilly the moment the sun goes away.

Food and Entertainment

Often, that’s to say the Bedouin experience involves dinner and some traditional entertainment. First, so expect things like grilled meats, salads, and breads—often prepared using traditional cooking ways. Naturally, sometimes the food can be simple, anyway it’s usually hearty and delicious. We’re talking food with great flavor. In the meantime, usually after dinner, there will be a show of some kind. Like, typically you might see belly dancing or listen to live Bedouin music. First, for example because that definitely adds to the experience and provides more than just sightseeing. Second, because you get to embrace the culture, or nearly as much as is possible in one night, alright?

What Could Be Better

Now, clearly not everything is always perfect. First off, the ‘authenticity’ of these experiences can actually vary widely. Basically, so some camps are very geared to tourists and are a bit more show than substance. Meanwhile, just a little, others truly feel genuine. Frankly, if it’s really important for you to have a true cultural experience, for instance, do a little asking around and look at different options. In that case, read a couple of reviews before you commit.

Plus, the hard sell that happens isn’t for everyone. Sometimes the Bedouins can actually be really pushy, or even a little too eager to sell their wares, that, honestly, can detract a little from the experience. Definitely set your own budget, and if that’s to say you are not really interested, be polite, or almost so, but very, very firm.

Is It Worth It?

So, is this Hurghada Bedouin Craft, Handmade & Star Watching trip worthwhile? That’s to say, if you’re looking to step away from the ordinary, to be honest, it could be a great addition to your vacation. Right, you actually get a closer look at a different culture and arguably appreciate the silent glory of the desert stars. Okay, so do go in with realistic outlooks. Like, you aren’t going to become an expert on Bedouin life in one night. We can’t be experts on anything in one night, right? What is this, a movie? Very, very likely that if you select wisely and keep an open mind, it might just give you an adventure you will actually be so happy you didn’t miss.