Travel bucket list idea:
Marsa Alam, Red Sea Coast, Egypt
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One of the best, most reliable places to swim with dolphins is in the Red Sea at so-called ‘Dolphin Houses’.
The best, most pristine and original ‘Dolphin House’ is the Sataya Reefm 100 kms south of Marsa Alam. This horseshoe-shaped reef shelters a calm lagoon, home to a large pod of around 100 spinner dolphins. With few currents, and crystal-clear water, viewing conditions are typically excellent; better still, the dolphins are naturally curious animals and often come close to swimmers (though physical interaction is not permitted). The reefs are pristine and packed with colourful fish – there are few better places in the world to snorkel.
A second, but still superb reef that also shelters pods of spinner dolphins and has superb snorkelling is Shaab Samadai (translated as Marsa Alam Dolphin House) only 30 minutes boat ride from Marsa Alam.
A third option is the so-called ‘Dolphin House’ of Hurghada. Being a larger more heavily touristed town, the dolphin tours from Hurghada are more of a fun day out than a serious ecotour. There are far more boats, and as a result, it’s unlikely you’ll get to swim with the dolphins due to government restrictions. You’ll almost certainly see dolphins though, and tours will include some great snorkelling.
Sataya Reef is a full-day excursion. It’s a 2-hour boat ride one way from Marsa Alam, or you can stay closer by on overnight accommodation, available through operators in nearby villages – Marsa Shagra, Marsa Nakari and Wadi Lahami.
Shaab Samadai Reef lies off the coast of Marsa Alam, about a 4-hour drive east from Luxor. It’s usually a full-day excursion too, with snorkelling and lunch included. The boat ride to the reef takes around 30 minutes, departing from Marsa Alam’s marina.
For both of the above, experienced guides give you a briefing before you enter the water, including tips on how to get close to the dolphins without scaring them. There’s no minimum age. Wear a T–shirt and sunscreen to avoid sunburn on your shoulders and the backs of your knees.
Tours run all year round, seven days a week. Start times vary by operator.
Visit between September and March, ideally. The light is better at this time of year and outside temperatures are lower. Spring (March-May) sees winds that can whip up the sea, reducing visibility. July and August are blisteringly hot.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
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These intelligent, social beings have long held a special place in our hearts – a result of their seemingly-smiling faces, playful frolicking and friendly disposition. Here’s our round-up of some of the best places in the world to swim with them.
