When you imagine the perfect vacation: sun rays on your skin, turquoise water, and incredible experiences with wildlife – diving with dolphins in Egypt certainly fits this picture. A trip to Dolphin House...
When you imagine the perfect vacation: sun rays on your skin, turquoise water, and incredible experiences with wildlife – diving with dolphins in Egypt certainly fits this picture. A trip to Dolphin House (also known as Dolphin House) is one of the most popular attractions in the Red Sea and a must-see for every water adventure lover. But what does it really look like in practice? What should you know, what to expect, and how to prepare? We answer all your questions!
What is Dolphin House?
Dolphin House, also known as Dolphin House or Sha’ab El Erg, is a popular coral reef located near Hurghada, in the northern part of the Red Sea. It is a natural habitat for wild bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), which can often be seen in their natural environment – without cages, pools, or the stress associated with captivity. This place is known not only for the opportunity to observe dolphins but also for its beautiful coral reef and rich underwater life. Therefore, it is often associated with diving or snorkeling.Why is Dolphin House a must-see during your vacation in Hurghada?
A trip to Dolphin House combines several unique attractions:- Contact with wild dolphins in their natural environment
- Diving and snorkeling at one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the region
- A boat trip on the azure Red Sea
- Relaxation on board with Egyptian cuisine and sunny weather
What does a typical day trip to Dolphin House look like?
Most trips from Hurghada to Dolphin House have a similar course, although details may vary depending on the organizer. Here’s what a typical day looks like:Wake-up and Transfer
The day starts relatively early – between 7:00 and 8:00 AM. After a short breakfast, you are picked up from your hotel by an air-conditioned minibus, which takes participants to the port, usually in the Hurghada or Safaga area.Boat Trip to Open Sea
After boarding the boat and a brief safety briefing, the trip begins, lasting about 60–90 minutes. In the meantime, you can enjoy the sun, admire the views, and sip refreshing drinks served on board.Meeting with Dolphins
Upon reaching the designated spot, the most important part of the day begins – searching for dolphins. With the help of an experienced crew and sonar, the boat stops in an area where dolphins are currently present. When you spot them – which happens in the vast majority of cases – you can get into the water and swim alongside them. Dolphins are wild animals, so they do not approach every person closely – however, encountering them even from a few meters away is an unforgettable experience. The sensations are indescribable, especially if you manage to see their jumps or hear their characteristic “laugh.”Snorkeling and/or Diving
After the exciting encounter with dolphins, the boat continues towards the coral reefs. Organizers stop at one or two locations where you can dive among the stunning corals and schools of colorful fish. For those without diving experience, snorkeling is available, which means swimming with a mask, snorkel, and fins on the water's surface. For more advanced individuals, scuba diving can be arranged – sometimes for an additional fee.Lunch and Relaxation
After the water activities, it’s time to relax and have lunch on the boat. Fresh grilled fish, chicken, vegetables, rice, salads, and fruits are usually served. After the meal, you can sunbathe on the upper deck, swim in the sea, or simply relax in the shade of the canopies.Return to Hotel
Around 3:00–4:00 PM, the boat returns to the port, and then the minibus takes tourists back to their hotels. This is the perfect time to make it for dinner and relax with evening animations or a stroll around the resort.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there definitely dolphins there?
Although they are wild and no one can give a 100% guarantee, statistically, dolphins appear in the Dolphin House area almost every day. In case of not encountering them, many organizers offer the possibility of participating in the trip again at another time – at no additional cost.Do you need to know how to swim?
Basic ability to stay afloat is helpful, but not required. Life jackets are available, and instructors are always in the water with participants. Therefore, even those with little water experience can safely enjoy the trip.What clothes and items to bring?
- Swimsuit (preferably wearing it)
- Towel and flip-flops
- UV sunscreen (preferably eco-friendly, reef-safe)
- Hat or sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Camera or GoPro (waterproof)
- Cash – for tips or small purchases
What to pay attention to when choosing an organizer?
Due to the popularity of Dolphin House, many agencies offer the trip. Here’s a list of aspects worth comparing:- Reputation and reviews online (TripAdvisor, Google Reviews)
- Safety (number of lifeguards, life jackets, equipment)
- Experience of guides and crew
- Quality of snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, fins)
- Quality of food and availability of drinks
- Included additional attractions: e.g., diving, photo sessions, inflatable boats
When is the best time to go on a trip?
Dolphin House can be visited all year round. However, the best weather and water conditions occur from April to November. In summer, the water is warmer, visibility underwater is excellent, and the chance of encountering dolphins is very high.Alternatives and Additional Attractions in Hurghada
If you are looking for more water or nature experiences, we also recommend:- Quad biking in the desert – perfect for adrenaline seekers
- Giftun Islands and Orange Bay – paradise beaches and relaxation with diving
- Mini Safari and Bedouin villages – immerse yourself in local culture
- Sunset cruises – romantic evenings at sea
Practical Tips Before Departure
- Buy a trip from a reputable provider (e.g., a Polish agency located in Hurghada)
- Bring a good sunscreen (preferably mineral, environmentally friendly)
- Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance – diving may be considered a high-risk sport
- Get seasickness medication if you tend to get nauseous on boats
- Respect the dolphins' space – do not touch them, chase them, or feed them