Taking a day to explore Dahab’s iconic underwater sites is an experience many travelers cherish—and for good reason. This Canyon and Blue Hole snorkeling trip offers a scenic, accessible adventure filled with vibrant marine life, dramatic landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere. While we haven’t personally done the tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary provide a clear picture of what you can expect.
Three aspects stand out: the value for money at $50, the beautiful views and marine encounters, and the convenient transport and included lunch. On the flip side, the entrance fee at the Blue Hole ($10 USD) is an extra cost, and some might find the midday heat challenging during the summer months. This trip suits anyone wanting an authentic, budget-friendly day immersed in nature and marine beauty—not just experienced snorkelers but also curious beginners.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: For around $50, you get a full day of snorkeling, transport, and lunch, making it a good value.
- Diverse Snorkeling Spots: Explore both the famous Blue Hole and the Canyon, each offering unique underwater scenery.
- Inclusive Experience: Equipment, hotel pickup, and drop-off are covered, simplifying logistics.
- Scenic Views & Nature: Besides underwater sights, you’ll enjoy mountain vistas, fossilized reefs, and desert landscapes.
- Group Friendly: Tours are small (up to 15 people), providing a personalized atmosphere.
- Extra Costs: Entrance fee to Blue Hole ($10 USD) isn’t included, so budget accordingly.
A Practical Guide to the Trip
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The trip begins with a pick-up from your Dahab hotel, usually around 9:00, 10:00, or 11:00 am to give flexibility depending on your plans. Once aboard the Jeep, the adventure kicks off with a 15-minute off-road ride to the Canyon—a sandy lagoon created by a coral garden crack. Here, you’ll spend a couple of hours snorkeling in waters that many reviewers describe as both clear and teeming with marine life.
What makes the Canyon particularly intriguing is that it’s an underground cave system, a feature that only the most advanced scuba divers explore fully. For us, the shallow snorkelers, it’s enough to enjoy the surreal, rock formations and the chance to spot colorful fish darting through the coral.
Next, the group moves to the Blue Hole, a globally renowned sinkhole with a depth of 328 feet (100 meters). The Blue Hole’s protected waters are perfect for snorkeling—whether you stay in the shallow area or venture out to the wall, you’ll find a lively diversity of fish and coral. The exposed fossilized reefs at the site add an extra layer of interest, and many reviewers mention the stunning views from the surrounding mountains.
What You’ll Experience
- Snorkeling Equipment: Masks are included—bring your own if you have a favorite or want to extend your gear for more comfort.
- Blue Hole Entrance Fee: This is an extra $10 USD per person, paid on arrival, but the experience is well worth it. The sheltered waters are calm and ideal for both beginners and those more confident in the water.
- Lunch & Relaxation: Post-snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a meal at nearby restaurants. The reviews highlight the quality of the food considering the remote setting, with some describing it as “good in the middle of nowhere.”
- Additional Activities: You can choose to hike into the mountains for panoramic views or walk along the coast and see the ancient fossilized reefs exposed here.
Transport & Group Size
Transportation in a Jeep makes the trip both comfortable and adventurous, with most groups limited to 15 travelers. This small-group setup ensures more personal attention from guides and less crowded snorkeling spots. Some reviews mention the guide as friendly and knowledgeable, which enhances the overall experience.
Timing & Duration
With around 6 hours total, the trip fits well into a day. Starting in the morning, you’ll be back in Dahab in the early afternoon, leaving room for further exploration or relaxing in town. The timing flexibility (pick from three start times) allows you to tailor the day to your preferences.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Many travelers emphasize the stunning views and good value. One reviewer called it a “full packed day to remember,” appreciating how the tour managed to fit in the desert, snorkeling, and Bedouin dinner in one day. Another mentioned that the Blue Hole was “incredible,” particularly the walk-in entry that drops 100 feet into the water, which is truly a sight to behold.
A reviewer noted some disappointment with the Canyon, citing the heat as a challenge and feeling there was less to do, but acknowledged the Blue Hole as “fantastic,” especially the abundant fish and the shallow zones for snorkeling.
The overall consensus is that this trip offers an authentic taste of Dahab’s natural beauty, with many guests praising the friendly guides and the stunning underwater and mountain scenery.
What to Keep in Mind
- The entrance fee to the Blue Hole is additional ($10 USD), so factor that into your budget.
- The tour is designed for most travelers, but if you are sensitive to heat, consider visiting during cooler months or early in the day.
- Snorkeling equipment includes masks, but you might prefer to bring your own for comfort.
- The trip involves off-road driving, which adds an element of fun but also means you should be comfortable with some bouncing around.
- The small group size allows for a more intimate experience but book well in advance—most travelers do so about 33 days ahead.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This snorkeling adventure is ideal for those seeking an affordable, well-organized day trip with lots of variety. It’s perfect for beginners wanting to try snorkeling in calm waters and for more experienced snorkelers eager to explore famous sites. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning mountain and desert landscapes, while those interested in marine life will find the Blue Hole teeming with colorful fish.
If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day with the bonus of encountering some of Egypt’s most famous underwater spots, this tour hits the right note.
The Sum Up
The Canyon and Blue Hole snorkeling trip in Dahab offers incredible value, blending accessible underwater adventures with breathtaking scenery. Its small-group setup, included transport, and lunch make it a convenient choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free day immersed in nature.
While the extra fee for the Blue Hole entrance might be an inconvenience for some, the overall experience—vivid marine life, impressive geological features, and mountain views—justifies the modest additional cost. This tour is particularly well-suited for those new to snorkeling, adventure-seekers, or anyone interested in seeing Dahab’s top natural attractions without breaking the bank.
If you’re craving a mix of underwater exploration, stunning vistas, and relaxed vibes, this trip will likely become a highlight of your Egypt travels.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and transportation is via Jeep, which also adds a fun off-road element to the journey.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans approximately 6 hours, allowing time for snorkeling at both sites, lunch, and some sightseeing.
What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, snorkeling masks, lunch, and the Blue Hole entrance fee (though the entrance fee itself is paid separately on-site).
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Masks are provided, but bringing your own mask or fins might improve your comfort, especially if you are a frequent snorkeler.
How much is the Blue Hole entrance fee?
It’s $10 USD per person and paid at the site, not included in the tour price.
Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Yes, most of the snorkeling is in shallow, calm waters, making it suitable for beginners.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers of all ages enjoy it, children should be comfortable in the water and accompanied by an adult.
What should I wear or bring?
Swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, water, and perhaps a camera. Light, breathable clothing is recommended for the jeep rides and mountain hikes.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about a month ahead; the tour is popular due to good value and iconic sites.
Can I combine this with other activities?
Yes, many travelers combine this tour with visits to Dahab city, the desert, or Bedouin dinners based on their preferences.
In all, the Dahab Blue Hole and Canyon snorkeling trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and value—an experience worth considering for your Egypt itinerary.