Swimming with dolphins is hands down one of the most magical bucket list experiences travelers often add to their Marsa Alam itinerary. And even though Shaab Samadai, also known as Dolphin Reef, is a much closer option to most hotels there, Sataya Marsa Alam is by far a more breathtaking destination.
So, if snorkeling/diving with wild spinner dolphins is on your bucket list and you don’t mind traveling the extra mile for it, then this guide to Shaab Sataya was written for you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I will earn a small commission if you purchase through my link at no extra cost to you. Please see full disclosure for more information.
Sataya Marsa Alam at a Glance
- Best time to go: Spring (March-May) and Fall (October-November) are optimal for mild temperatures. However, the weather in both Summer and Winter is still great.
- How to book your excursion: It’s best to book your trip with a trusted operator via GetYourGuide or Viator.
- Where to stay in Marsa Alam: I personally loved staying at Abu Dabbab Lodge, but Wadi Lahmi Village is closer in proximity to Sataya if your trip is centered around this experience.
- Must-have essentials: Travel insurance, underwater action camera and/or a sturdy waterproof mobile case, as well as seasickness bands.
About Sataya Marsa Alam
Sataya Marsa Alam, also known as Shaab Sataya or Dolphin Reef, is located in the South of the Egyptian Red Sea coast. What truly makes this reef extra special is that it’s home to wild spinner dolphins, and given its open water setting, dolphin encounters may be closer and in bigger numbers. This makes it one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in all of Marsa Alam. However, it’s important to always keep in mind that dolphins are wild animals and sightings are never really guaranteed.
There are wonderful coral reefs that are absolutely worth seeing in the area, and the turquoise water there is just stunning. So, in case you don’t end up seeing any dolphins, your trip will not be a waste.
The Sataya Marsa Alam Day Trip
Despite the breathtaking experience, it’s worth noting that the journey to Sataya Marsa Alam is long and exhausting.
You’re expected to head out as early as 5:30 AM, depending on your operator and the location of your hotel; I was picked up at 6:00 AM from Abu Dabbab Lodge (read my full review here), but we still had to pick up a couple of more people on the way. The first ride took 2 hours till we reached Hamata Port, which is about 100 KM south of Marsa Alam, and from there, we joined a larger group and hopped on a yacht. Then, we sailed for 2 more hours into the open water till we reached Sataya.
Upon arrival, you’re expected to enjoy two snorkeling sessions and lunch on the boat. The first snorkel is usually dedicated to the dolphins, while the second one is open for your own choice. Some travelers choose to see the reefs in the area, while others choose to swim with dolphins once again (if they’re around).
Personally, I went with the second choice. I didn’t get to see the dolphins so well the first time around because there were so many people in the water at the time, but the second snorkeling session was much more enjoyable.
After two snorkeling sessions and lunch on the boat, we sailed back to Hamata Port, but the return trip was even more tiring because the water was so turbulent that most of us got seasick. The journey back was probably 2 of the worst hours of my life because I was incredibly sick. But aside from the seasickness, long rides, and waking up early, it was all worth it! Because once you get in the water and see those magical creatures swimming by you, you’ll be in awe. It’s insanely incredible!
Overnight Stays in Sataya Marsa Alam
As I mentioned earlier, dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, as they’re wild animals after all. So, in that sense, similar to game drives, safari trips are often held in Sataya Marsa Alam too. These are usually overnight boat trips that give travelers multiple chances to spot wildlife, often when the reef is free of tourist crowds.
I personally think this is absolutely worth it if you have the time and the budget. There were times when I wished there were fewer tourists around, as the crowds often scare the dolphins away, especially when they aggressively jump in the water.
Things to Pack: Must-Have Essentials
- Travel insurance: My favorite is SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance. The Essential plan covers you for attending classes, solo training, private lessons, and informal training with a group for sports that include snorkeling and freediving. As for Scuba diving, it can be covered as part of the adventure sports add-on, which gives you access to additional activities. GET INSURED!
- Snorkeling mask (you can rent it, but I prefer bringing my own)
- Rash guard or swimsuit
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Dry bag for your electronics
- Reusable water bottle
- Underwater action camera with housing and/or a sturdy waterproof mobile case
- Surface marker buoy if appropriate
- Motion-sickness medication
- Seasickness bands
- Lightweight towel
- Extra layers for boat rides
How to Ethically Swim With Dolphins
When diving or snorkeling in Marsa Alam, there are a few things to keep in mind to do it responsibly, especially if there’s wildlife like dolphins around.
- When snorkeling/diving with dolphins, enter the water calmly if you’re on a speedboat; don’t jump! Avoid making noise or sudden movements, in general, so you don’t scare them away.
- Don’t chase, touch, or feed the dolphins.
- Always keep a safe distance between you and them.
- Avoid blocking dolphins’ swimming direction.
- Don’t forget to choose responsible dive operators that follow protected area regulations.
Final Thoughts
Swimming with dolphins in Sataya Marsa Alam was hands down one of the most memorable travel experiences I ever had in Egypt, and in general. So, if you’re wondering whether this is worth the difficult trip, let me assure you that this is totally bucket list-worthy.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!
Travel (solo or not) isn’t always rainbows and butterflies – things might go down south sometimes. You might fall ill or lose your luggage, and that’s when you’ll thank me for having your back covered with travel insurance.
SafetyWing offers different travel insurance packages, tailored to your needs, but their Nomad Insurance is my favorite option.
This travel medical insurance is perfect for frequent travelers. It covers lost checked luggage, travel delay, doctors, hospitals, and more. It even covers the COVID-19 emergency quarantine period if deemed necessary by a physician.
Explore SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance Essential and Complete plans now.
OR REGISTER FOR FREE!
Booking a trip soon? Here are some useful travel resources:
- Book your flight with Skyscanner, Kiwi, CheapOair, or WayAway.
- Book your hostel with Hostelworld.
- Book your hotel with Booking.com.
- Get your travel insurance with SafetyWing.
- Hire a car with Skyscanner, Discover Cars, Rentalcars, or AutoEurope.
- Book your tours with Get Your Guide, Viator, Tiqets, or Klook.
- Download an eSIM from Airalo or Jetpac.
- Check out my trip planning tools for more travel resources.
You might also like:
- Diving in Marsa Alam: Astonishing Spots for Solo Adventurers
- Marsa Alam: The Ultimate Guide to Egypt’s Red Sea Gem
Meanwhile, if you like my content and would like to see more of it, subscribe to my newsletter here.
Nadine is an Egyptian curly-head who decided to quit the norm because it just doesn’t suit her. She ditched her 9-5 as a magazine editor to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time digital nomad and to inspire aspiring travelers to embark on their own solo adventures.
