Shaab El Fanous (Dolphin Habitat)

Overview

Explore the famous Shaab El Fanous (Dolphin House) and the magical Erg Qishta reefs. These destinations are world-renowned for being the natural home of wild dolphins and offering some of the shallowest, most vibrant coral gardens in Hurghada. Perfect for families and snorkeling lovers, our private boat trips give you the best chance to swim with dolphins and discover the ‘Nemo’ gardens of the Red Sea.

Sights

Info

Reef Details

Main Attraction
Wild Dolphins & Nemo Fish
Water Depth
3m – 10m (Shallow)
Visibility
Very High
Best For
Snorkeling & Photography

Shaab El Fanous: The Gateway to the Dolphin House

Shaab El Fanous, also known as the “Dolphin House,” is a horseshoe-shaped reef located north of Hurghada. It is one of the most famous spots in the Red Sea because a pod of wild Bottlenose dolphins lives here permanently. The lagoon inside the reef is calm and shallow, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and observing these intelligent creatures in their natural home.

Erg Qishta: The Hidden Gem of Corals

Just a short distance from El Fanous lies Erg Qishta, a smaller but incredibly beautiful reef. It is famous for its “pinnacles” (Ergs) that are covered in colorful soft corals.

  • Nemo’s Home: Erg Qishta is known for having many sea anemones where the famous Clownfish (Nemo) live.

  • Shallow Waters: The depth here is perfect for beginners and children, with incredible visibility that makes every detail underwater stand out.

  • Marine Biodiversity: You can easily spot stingrays, octopus, and thousands of tropical reef fish in this area.


Why Visit El Fanous and Erg Qishta with a Private Speedboat?

To have the best experience, we recommend our Private Speedboat Tour.

  1. Be the First: Large boats arrive late. We can get you to Shaab El Fanous early in the morning when the dolphins are most active and playful.

  2. Double the Fun: On a private trip, we can easily combine both Shaab El Fanous and Erg Qishta in one journey, giving you a mix of dolphin watching and high-quality snorkeling.

  3. Safety & Comfort: Our professional guides will be in the water with you to ensure you follow eco-friendly guidelines while swimming near the dolphins.

Colorful coral reefs and tropical fish at Small Giftun Island Hurghada Previous Small Giftun Island & Coral Reefs