Hurghada Dolphins: Where to Swim, Price, and More: 7 Effective and Reliable Ways

Wondering where the best places to swim with dolphins in Hurghada are and how much it costs? In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the best spots to swim with dolphins, explain prices, and offer helpful tips to make your adventure unforgettable.
Where to swim with dolphins in Hurghada: a review of the best spots and prices
Hurghada is a popular vacation spot, renowned for its beautiful beaches and the opportunity to swim with dolphins. Many tourists come here specifically for this unique experience.
Choosing a location to swim with dolphins depends on your preferences and budget. Different tour operators offer different options, varying in price and conditions.
Dolphinarium in Hurghada
A dolphinarium is perhaps the safest and most predictable option. Here you can swim with dolphins in a controlled environment.
- Pros: Safe, guaranteed interaction with dolphins, suitable for children.
- Cons: Less natural than the open sea, can be more expensive.
- Price: Varies from $50 to $150 depending on duration and program.
Dolphinariums typically offer a variety of programs, including swimming, photo sessions, and interactive shows. A visit to the dolphinarium is a great option for families with children.
The most popular places to swim with dolphins in Hurghada
Besides the dolphinarium, there are several places in the open sea where dolphins can be encountered. These places are usually visited as part of sea excursions.
It's important to remember that there's no guarantee of encountering dolphins in the open sea, but this makes the experience more exciting and natural.
Shaab El Erg Reef (Dolphin House)
This is one of the most famous dolphin spots in Hurghada. The Shaab El Erg reef attracts dolphins thanks to its calm waters and abundant food.
- Features: Shallow lagoon, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
- Probability of encountering dolphins: High, but not guaranteed.
- Price: A boat excursion with a visit to the Dolphin House costs from $30 to $60.
During the excursion, you'll be provided with snorkeling equipment and can swim in the hopes of encountering dolphins. Learn more about our tours .
Giftun Island

Giftun Island is another popular destination for boat excursions, where dolphins are sometimes spotted. Excursions to the island typically include visits to several snorkeling and diving spots.
- Features: Beautiful coral reefs, opportunity to see diverse marine life.
- Probability of encountering dolphins: Average.
- Price: A tour to Giftun Island costs between $40 and $70.
Besides dolphins, you can see a variety of other marine life here, such as colorful fish and turtles. Contact us to book a tour.
Other places
Some tour operators offer special dolphin-spotting tours in lesser-known locations. These tours can be more expensive, but also more exclusive.
- Features: Fewer tourists, more chances for individual interaction with dolphins.
- Probability of encountering dolphins: Depends on location and season.
- Price: From $80 and up.
When choosing this type of tour, it's important to check with the tour operator about their guarantees in case you don't see dolphins. Check out our special offers .
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Swim Tour
Choosing a dolphin swim tour is an important step that will determine your overall experience. There are several factors to consider when choosing.
Evaluate your priorities: do you want a guaranteed encounter with dolphins in a dolphinarium, or do you prefer a more natural, but less predictable, experience in the open sea?
Tour type
There are two main types of dolphin swimming tours: at a dolphinarium and in the open sea. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Dolphinarium: Safe, guaranteed interaction with dolphins, suitable for children.
- Open sea: More natural, opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat, but no guarantee of an encounter.
The choice depends on your personal preferences and expectations. If safety and a guaranteed result are important to you, a dolphinarium is the best option. If you're up for adventure and want to see dolphins in the wild, choose a boat excursion. Read our travel articles .
Price
The price of dolphin swimming tours can vary greatly depending on the type of tour, duration, and included services.
- Dolphinarium: From 50 to 150 dollars.
- Boat excursion: From $30 to $80.
Compare prices from different tour operators and make sure you understand what's included. Some tours may include transfers, lunch, and drinks, while others may only include swimming with dolphins. See our frequently asked questions .
Tour operator reputation
Before booking a tour, be sure to check the tour operator's reputation. Read reviews from other travelers and ensure the company has a good reputation and provides high-quality services.
- Reviews: Read reviews on booking sites and forums.
- Rating: Please pay attention to the tour operator’s rating.
- License: Make sure that the tour operator has a license to operate.
Choose tour operators with a good reputation and positive reviews. This will help you avoid disappointment and get the most out of your trip. Book a transfer for your convenience.
Tips for Preparing to Swim with Dolphins
To ensure your dolphin swim is as comfortable and safe as possible, it's important to prepare in advance. Here are some helpful tips:
Prepare physically: If you plan to swim in open water, make sure you know how to swim and are comfortable in the water.
What to take with you
Pack all the necessary things to feel comfortable while swimming.
- Swimsuit: Be sure to bring a swimsuit or swimming trunks.
- Towel: You will need a towel to dry yourself off after swimming.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn.
- Hat and sunglasses: Protect your head and eyes from the sun.
- Water: Bring enough water with you to avoid dehydration.
Don't forget to bring your camera to capture this unforgettable moment. Read our privacy policy .
Medical contraindications
If you have any medical conditions, be sure to consult your doctor before swimming with dolphins.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women are not recommended to swim with dolphins.
- Cardiovascular disease: People with cardiovascular disease should consult a doctor.
- Skin conditions: People with skin conditions should avoid swimming in dolphinariums.
Your health is paramount. Don't take any risks if you have any doubts. Remember that dolphins are animals, and their behavior is not always predictable. Visit our website for more information.
Precautions and safety when swimming with dolphins
Safety is the number one priority when swimming with dolphins. Follow all rules and instructions to avoid any unpleasant situations.
Listen carefully to the guide's instructions: the guide will tell you about the rules of conduct with dolphins and how to avoid injury.
Rules of conduct with dolphins
Follow the rules of conduct around dolphins to avoid frightening them or provoking aggression.
- Do not touch dolphins without permission: Dolphins are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
- Do not feed dolphins: Feeding dolphins can disrupt their natural diet.
- Do not make noise or sudden movements: Noise and sudden movements can frighten dolphins.
Remember, you are visiting dolphins. Respect their space and do not disturb them. Learn more about our company .
Swimming equipment
Use only high-quality and properly functioning swimming equipment.
- Mask and snorkel: Make sure the mask and snorkel fit properly and are water tight.
- Fins: Use fins to make swimming easier and avoid fatigue.
- Life Jacket: If you are not a good swimmer, be sure to wear a life jacket.
Check your equipment before diving to ensure it is in good working order. Do not use damaged equipment. Contact our support team if you have any questions.
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Dolphin Swim Tour
When choosing a dolphin-swimming tour, tourists often make the same mistakes. Avoid these mistakes to avoid ruining your vacation.
Don't choose the cheapest tour: cheap tours often offer poor quality services and unsafe conditions.
Insufficient verification of the tour operator
Before booking a tour, be sure to check the tour operator's reputation. Avoid companies with poor reviews and low ratings.
- Lack of license: Make sure that the tour operator has a license to operate.
- Bad reviews: Read reviews from other tourists and pay attention to negative comments.
- Low Rating: Don't trust companies with low ratings.
Choose tour operators with a good reputation and positive reviews. This will help you avoid disappointment and get the most out of your trip. Check out our best deals .
Incorrect assessment of one's capabilities
If you're a poor swimmer, avoid open-sea tours. Choose dolphinariums, where swimming takes place in a controlled environment.
- Inability to swim: If you can’t swim, don’t take any risks and choose the dolphinarium.
- Fear of Water: If you are afraid of water, swimming in open water can be stressful for you.
- Poor physical fitness: If you are not in good physical fitness, open sea swimming can be tiring.
Assess your abilities and choose tours that suit your level. Don't risk your health and safety. Read our travel tips .
Alternatives: Swimming with dolphins in Marsa Alam
If you're looking for an alternative to Hurghada for swimming with dolphins, consider Marsa Alam. This resort, located further south, offers a quieter, less crowded atmosphere, as well as excellent opportunities to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat.
Advantages of Marsa Alam
- Fewer tourists: Marsa Alam generally has fewer tourists than Hurghada, making your experience more secluded and peaceful.
- More untouched nature: The coral reefs and marine life in Marsa Alam are in better condition than in more popular tourist spots.
- High chance of encountering dolphins: In some areas of Marsa Alam, such as Satayh Dolphin Reef, the chance of encountering dolphins is very high.
Satayh Dolphin Reef
Sataya Reef, also known as the "Dolphin House," is one of the most famous spots in Marsa Alam for swimming with dolphins. It is home to a large pod of bottlenose dolphins, which often approach people and play with them.
- Features: Shallow lagoon, protected from wind and waves, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
- Probability of encountering dolphins: Very high, practically guaranteed.
- Price: A boat excursion with a visit to the Satayya reef costs from 50 to 80 dollars.
When choosing a tour to Satayya Reef, make sure the tour operator adheres to responsible tourism practices and does not disturb the dolphins. It's important that interactions with the dolphins are safe and respectful.
Taking Photos and Videos While Swimming with Dolphins: Top Tips
Swimming with dolphins is a unique experience you'll want to capture forever. Here are some tips for taking great photos and videos during your adventure:
Selection of equipment
- Waterproof camera or case: To shoot underwater, you will need a waterproof camera or a special case for your smartphone or camera.
- Action Camera: Action cameras like the GoPro are ideal for capturing action videos while swimming.
- Underwater Housing: If you have a professional camera, consider getting an underwater housing to protect it from water.
Shooting tips
- Shoot in good light: The best time to shoot underwater is on a sunny day when the water is well lit.
- Approach dolphins with caution: Don't frighten the dolphins with sudden movements. Swim toward them slowly and calmly.
- Shoot videos from different angles: Try shooting videos from different angles to get more interesting footage.
- Use a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture more space and take more dramatic photos.
- Remember about safety: When filming, remember about your own safety and follow all rules and instructions of the guide.
Photo and video processing
After shooting, you can edit your photos and videos to improve their quality. Use photo and video editing programs to adjust brightness, contrast, color, and other parameters.
The Environmental Impact of Swimming with Dolphins: How to Minimize Damage
Swimming with dolphins is a popular tourist activity that can have a negative impact on the environment. It's important to choose tours that are responsibly operated and do not harm dolphins or their habitat.
Problems associated with swimming with dolphins
- Dolphin Disturbance: Excessive numbers of tourists can disturb dolphins and disrupt their natural behavior.
- Water Pollution: Boats and tourists can pollute the water with waste and chemicals.
- Damage to Coral Reefs: Careless tourists can damage coral reefs, which are an important part of the marine ecosystem.
How to minimize damage
- Choose responsible tour operators: Make sure the tour operator follows responsible tourism practices and does not disturb dolphins.
- Do not touch the dolphins: Do not touch the dolphins or try to feed them.
- Keep quiet: Keep quiet and avoid sudden movements to avoid frightening the dolphins.
- Don't pollute the water: Don't throw trash into the water and don't use sunscreens that contain harmful chemicals.
- Respect coral reefs: Do not touch or step on coral reefs.
Remember that each of us can contribute to preserving the marine environment. Choose responsible tours and follow the rules of conduct to ensure your dolphin swim is safe and environmentally friendly.
Frequently asked questions about dolphins in Hurghada, where to swim, and prices
How much does it cost to swim with dolphins in Hurghada?
Prices vary depending on the location and type of tour. Dolphinarium prices start at $50, and boat excursions start at $30.
Where is it better to swim with dolphins: in a dolphinarium or in the open sea?
A dolphinarium is safer and guaranteed, but the open sea is more natural and exciting. The choice depends on your preferences.
How to prepare for swimming with dolphins?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and water. If you have any medical contraindications, consult your doctor.
What precautions should I take when swimming with dolphins?
Listen to your guide's instructions, do not touch the dolphins without permission, do not feed them, and do not make noise. Use high-quality diving equipment.
How to choose the right dolphin swimming tour?
Compare prices from different tour operators, check their reputation, and make sure you understand what's included in the tour price.
What to do if you can’t see dolphins in the open sea?
Unfortunately, there's no guarantee of encountering dolphins in the open sea. Some tour operators offer partial refunds in such cases.
Is it safe to swim with dolphins in Hurghada?
Generally speaking, yes, as long as you take all necessary precautions and choose reputable tour operators. Swimming at dolphinariums is usually safer.
Conclusion
Swimming with dolphins in Hurghada is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression. Knowing where to swim with dolphins in Hurghada and the cost will help you plan your trip to the best possible outcome.
Remember to take all safety precautions and choose reputable tour operators to ensure your adventure is safe and enjoyable.