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What is Dolphin House in Hurghada?
Shaab El Erg Dolphin House is a large reef system to the north of Hurghada in the Red Sea. This location is world renowned for the pod of resident spinner dolphins that often convene here due to the peaceful, warm, and sheltered environment of the surrounding coral reef.
The reef acts as a natural lagoon where dolphins gather for rest, swimming and socialising, therefore the chances of seeing the dolphins here is extremely high compared to much of the other locations within the Red Sea.
What separates Dolphin House is the fact that you can experience dolphins in their natural, untouched environment with absolutely no cages, no artificial shows and no forced interaction. This experience is vastly more emotional and memorable.
Also surrounding the reef is an unbelievable world of coral gardens and abundant marine life making it one of the best snorkeling spots nearby to Hurghada, even if the dolphins are shy.
Why visitors love it:
- Great chance of seeing wild dolphins
- Crystal clear water of the Red Sea
- Abundant and rich coral reefs
- Experience dolphins in their natural, unaltered state
- Combination of a relaxing trip and exciting adventure
The Thrill of Searching for Dolphins
Once near the area designated for the Dolphins, it is time for the most exciting part of the journey – the search for the pods. From the deck, both the captain and guides will scan the water for the smallest of movements.
Before you know it, someone in the group shouts "fin!" and immediately you spot the signature triangular sail of a dolphin fin breaking the water. Then another fin appears, then another, until finally a whole pod of dolphins is swimming beside and below the boat in the clearest turquoise water you will have ever seen.
The Spinner Dolphins, native to this part of the world, are known for their playful behaviour and love of leaping and twisting into the air. This is the most magical of moments; watching them perform in their element and creating an indescribable emotional connection with them.
The atmosphere of the boat will instantly change to one of utter delight and excitement, with camera flashes capturing every moment of their performance, and fellow passengers flocking to the deck to experience the magic. At times the dolphins will swim extremely close to the boat, almost as if to guide the snorkelers further into their world.
The unique emotion of this moment:
- Seeing a wild pod of dolphins in their own environment
- Marveling at their playful behavior
- Capture incredible photography of marine life in action
- Connecting with these majestic animals on a spiritual level
Swimming and Snorkeling with the Dolphins
The next, and most dreamed of step, involves a small, supervised group heading into the water for an opportunity to swim or snorkel alongside the dolphins in the open Red Sea. The feeling of gliding through the warm turquoise waters alongside a pod of graceful dolphins is one that is extremely hard to describe.
As you float effortlessly among the vast expanse of blues in the Red Sea, dolphins can swim past or under your snorkel mask as if they were merely checking on a visitor in their home, always completely wild and never under compulsion, thus adding to the authenticity of the interaction. Even when there are no dolphins present snorkeling here is still incredibly rewarding as the dive sites are truly exceptional.
Among the corals you can expect to find:
- Brilliant colorful tropical fish species
- Butterflyfish and Angelfish
- Anemones hiding clownfish within them
- occasional sea turtles or stingrays
- Incredible soft and hard coral structures
Excellent visibility under the water makes for an even more immersive experience.
What makes the snorkeling so special:
- Water remains warm for most of the year
- Amazing variety of marine life
- Safe for beginners
- Encounter dolphins in their natural, natural habitat
The Stunning Red Sea Corals
But even if the dolphins are having a shy day the corals that surround Dolphin House and Shaab El Erg are among the most beautifully conserved reefs in Egypt, and some of the healthiest in the world.
The reef is comprised of:
- Vibrant coral gardens and walls
- Hundreds of various fish species
- A protected marine environment
Sunlight passes through the turquoise water to create vibrant colors throughout the reef and underwater photography opportunities become particularly spectacular. The variety of the marine life changes greatly depending on the sunlight, currents and the tides, meaning each snorkeling opportunity is completely unique. Many of the people who travel here regard the trip to the coral gardens as the highlight even if the dolphins are not sighted.
The highlight of the reef:
- A healthy and vibrant coral eco-system
- Discover hundreds of new species of tropical fish
- Opportunities for fantastic underwater photographs
When is the best time to visit the Dolphin House Hurghada
A major benefit to visiting Hurghada is the sunny climate year-round. The Dolphin House trips run everyday during every season, but there are specific times where conditions are more ideal:
- March - November for warm water
- Spring and autumn for mild weather
- Early mornings for dolphin activity
It is highly recommended that you participate in a morning trip. Dolphins tend to be much more active in the morning and the visibility of the water is generally more clear.
Packing Essentials include:
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Waterproof phone case/camera
- Comfortable light clothing
