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Shaab El Erg

Diving with Dolphins in Hurghada

About an hour north of Hurghada lies Shaab El Erg, a horseshoe-shaped reef the local guides simply call Dolphin House. A pod of wild bottlenose dolphins uses its calm lagoon to rest and socialize, which is why they are seen here so often. We dive the reef, we snorkel the lagoon, and if the dolphins choose to come close, it becomes a day you will never forget.

How do I dive at Dolphin House?

We deliberately do not sell a separate "dolphin trip" - wild animals cannot be promised, and we will not charge you extra for a promise nobody can keep. Shaab El Erg is part of the normal daily diving rotation: when weather, sea conditions and the boat plan fit, the daily trip goes there.

Book regular daily diving (€40 per person, 2 dives with lunch and pickup), tell us you would love a Dolphin House day, and we will plan honestly around the conditions of your week.

Wild dolphins swimming in the Red Sea near Hurghada
The honest part

Wild dolphins, on their terms

Before you book, read this. It is the part many operators skip, and the reason our guests trust us.

Sightings are never guaranteed

The dolphins at Shaab El Erg are wild animals, not an attraction. They are seen often, sometimes for a whole surface interval, sometimes not at all. Anyone who guarantees dolphins is not being honest with you. Even without them, Shaab El Erg is a beautiful coral reef day.

We approach respectfully

If dolphins appear, we slip into the water calmly and at a distance, and we let them decide whether to come closer. They are curious animals; when they are in the mood, they approach on their own. That is the only kind of encounter worth having.

No chasing, no touching. Ever.

We never chase, corner, circle or touch dolphins, and we ask every guest to follow the same rule. The lagoon is their resting place. Pressuring resting dolphins harms them and usually ends the encounter for everyone. Guides will call the group back if needed.

Shaab El Erg (Dolphin House) reef near Hurghada
The dive site

Shaab El Erg (Dolphin House)

Depth 5-22 m60-75 min by boatAll levels

The famous horseshoe reef where wild bottlenose dolphins often rest in the lagoon. The lagoon stays shallow and calm, which makes this one of the few trips where divers and snorkelers genuinely share the same great day.

  • Wild dolphin encounters (never guaranteed)
  • Beautiful hard coral garden
  • Easy lagoon diving
  • Great snorkeling too
Full site guide

Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Final dive sites depend on weather, sea conditions, certification level and the daily operation plan.

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I guaranteed to see dolphins at Dolphin House?
No. The dolphins at Shaab El Erg are wild animals that come and go freely, so no trip can ever promise a sighting. We visit a beautiful reef and enjoy whatever the sea offers on the day.
Is Dolphin House a special dolphin tour?
It is not a separate wildlife product. Dolphin House (Shaab El Erg) is simply one of the reefs we may visit as part of a normal daily diving or snorkeling trip from Hurghada.
Can I snorkel as well as dive at Shaab El Erg?
Yes. Shaab El Erg is a large reef system suitable for both diving and snorkeling, so certified divers and non-divers can enjoy the trip together.

A beautiful reef day, with a real chance of wild dolphins.

Divers and snorkelers welcome. We will tell you honestly what to expect.

We work with licensed dive centers and legal marine activity providers. Final dive sites depend on weather, sea conditions, certification level, and the daily operation plan. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Safety and guest comfort always come first. Medical forms may be required for courses and diving. Certification cards may be requested for certified divers.