Exploring Dahab’s Blue Hole and Three Pools with a Snorkeling Tour
If you’re heading to Dahab and looking for an effortless way to enjoy the region’s famed underwater scenes, this Blue Hole and Three Pools snorkeling tour is worth considering. It offers a convenient, guided experience designed for travelers who want to see some of Egypt’s best reefs without the hassle of haggling or planning logistics.
What we love about this tour is the door-to-door pickup, the inclusive snorkeling equipment, and the opportunity to see both a famous sinkhole and a reef-rich shallow pool—all in one day. The delicious beachside lunch also makes the day feel complete. The only potential snag? The entrance fee of $10 per person isn’t included, so be prepared for that additional cost.
This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate easy, organized excursions with a focus on marine scenery, rather than long, strenuous trips. Families, solo snorkelers, or groups looking for a straightforward day out will find plenty of value here.
Key Points
- All-inclusive convenience with pickup, transport, and snorkeling gear
- Two iconic snorkeling sites in a single day: Blue Hole and Three Pools
- Delicious lunch and beachside relaxation included
- Small group size (max 15 travelers) for a more personal experience
- Clear timing and straightforward schedule—perfect for planning your day
- Additional costs like entrance fees and drinks are separate
Overview of the Tour Experience
This six-hour trip from Dahab offers a well-paced and comprehensive peek into some of the Red Sea’s most stunning underwater environments. It’s designed to keep things simple yet memorable, especially if you’re keen to avoid the common pitfalls of independent travel—like haggling with drivers or renting gear separately.
You’ll meet your driver at your hotel at one of three flexible start times—9:00, 10:00, or 11:00 am—then head out in a comfortable Jeep. This door-to-door service means no stress about finding your destinations or coordinating transport once you’re on the move.
The tour’s main focus is the Blue Hole, just a 30-minute drive south of Dahab. This site is celebrated for its sheer coral walls and abundant marine life. The coral reefs here include brain, star, and acropora corals, providing vibrant scenery for snorkelers. Expect to see triggerfish, jacks, parrotfish, and even angelfish, among others. Reviewers like Kyle_L mentioned, “Both locations have incredible reefs,” highlighting how spectacular the underwater scenery is at each stop.
The Blue Hole itself is renowned for its sheer size and depth, but the tour keeps the snorkeling manageable with about three hours here, giving ample time to float above the reefs and take photos without feeling rushed. Be aware that the entrance fee of $10 per person isn’t included in the $40 tour price, so budget accordingly.
Looking for more options in Dahab? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Transition to Three Pools
After your Blue Hole adventure, your guide will take you on a 40-minute drive to the next stop—Three Pools. This site is a stark contrast in many ways, offering shallow waters and coral towers separated by shallow saddles. It’s ideal for those who prefer calmer, more accessible snorkeling, especially if you’re not a fan of deep or more challenging dives.
The three natural pools are surrounded by large, colorful coral formations and attract a lively variety of marine life. Reviewers like Kyle_L appreciated the relaxed atmosphere—“The overall atmosphere was very relaxing,” which makes it ideal for a laid-back day. You can expect to see more sea creatures and enjoy a break at the nearby cafes for some refreshments.
Snorkeling here is complemented by the chance to observe more sea creatures—additional species like unicornfish and surgeonfish are common. The shallow waters make it perfect for families or less experienced snorkelers.
Lunch and Relaxation
A highlight of this tour is the lunch served at one of the local beach restaurants. We loved how reviewers found the food to be satisfying, providing a much-needed energy boost for the afternoon. The meal is included in the tour price, making it good value considering the scenic location and quality.
Post-lunch, there’s more time to snorkel or relax before heading back to Dahab. The entire experience wraps up around 5:00 pm, giving you a full day of exploration without feeling overly rushed.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $40, the tour offers great value, especially considering the pickup, drop-off, transportation, and snorkeling equipment (masks only). The small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, and the flexible start times mean you can pick the most convenient slot.
However, keep in mind that extra drinks and the $10 entrance fee are not included. Tipping is customary if you’re happy with the service, and it’s always good to have some cash on hand for additional expenses.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
One traveler, Kyle_L, summed up his experience as “One of the highlights of the trip,” emphasizing the relaxing atmosphere and the absence of persistent haggling, which can often be a concern in tourist-heavy Egypt. He also praised the reefs at both sites, noting their incredible beauty that’s perfect for snorkelers of all levels.
Another important detail is that the guides and driver tend to be friendly and accommodating, making the day pleasant and straightforward. Although specific names are not mentioned, reviewers appreciate the professionalism and relaxed vibe provided by Dahab Safari Day Tours.
Practical Tips
- Bring cash for entrance fees and additional drinks or snacks.
- Arrive early at your pickup point to avoid missing your window.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine environment.
- Check your gear before snorkeling—most equipment is provided, but you might want to bring your own mask if you have sensitive skin.
- Stay hydrated—there’s plenty of sun, and snorkeling can be more tiring than you think!
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is ideal for beginners and casual snorkelers who want a stress-free way to see Dahab’s highlights. It also suits families or groups who prefer the security of guided tours with all logistics handled. If you’re looking for a relaxed day in the water with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking up scenery, this trip checks all those boxes.
However, if you’re seeking deep dives or more advanced reef exploration, you might want to consider longer or more specialized excursions. The tour’s focus on shallow pools and easily accessible reefs makes it perfect for a leisurely, scenic day.
The Sum Up
For just $40, this Blue Hole and Three Pools snorkeling tour offers a practical way to see two of Dahab’s most iconic underwater sites. The inclusive nature—covering transportation, gear, and lunch—adds to its appeal, especially for travelers wanting to avoid the hassle of independent planning.
The tour’s small group size and flexible schedule create a comfortable environment for learning and relaxing in the water. The stunning reefs, combined with delicious food and a laid-back vibe, make it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a taste of Dahab’s marine magic.
While it’s not suited for those seeking extreme diving or extensive underwater adventures, it’s perfect for casual snorkelers, families, or anyone wanting a straightforward, memorable day out. With a strong reputation backed by honest reviews, this trip proves to be an accessible and rewarding way to explore the Red Sea’s vibrant aquatic life.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Dahab, along with transportation by Jeep throughout the day.
What snorkeling equipment is provided? The tour provides masks for snorkeling, ensuring you won’t need to rent gear separately unless you prefer your own.
How long do we stay at each site? You’ll spend approximately three hours snorkeling at the Blue Hole and then time at Three Pools afterward. The entire tour lasts about six hours.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of? Yes, the entrance fee of $10 per person is not included, and you may want to budget for extra drinks or souvenirs.
What is the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, making for a more intimate and relaxed experience.
Can children join this tour? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for families with children comfortable in water. Check with the tour provider if you have specific concerns.
In short, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Dahab’s best snorkeling spots. It combines stunning views, good value, and a seamless day out—perfect for travelers who want to relax and explore without fuss.