Swimming just a few metres from a sea turtle as it grazes on the seagrass below: that is the experience Abu Dabbab, Marsa Alam’s famous bay, has to offer. Even if you are staying further north, a Marsa Alam day trip from Hurghada is easy to do in a single day. Here is the itinerary, the departure days, the 2026 price and our tips to make the most of it.
Can you visit Marsa Alam in a day from Hurghada?
Yes. Abu Dabbab beach is about a 3-hour drive south of Hurghada. You leave early, around 5 am, and arrive at about 8:30 am while the beach is still quiet. You then spend the day there and are back at your hotel around 6 pm. Allow about 13 hours in total.
Marsa Alam day trip price in 2026
| Option | Group | Duration | Adult price | Child price (6-11 years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day at Abu Dabbab with snorkeling and lunch | Group trip, Monday and Friday | About 13 hours | €85 | €42.50 |
| Same day as a private trip | Just you, every day | About 13 hours | On request | On request |
Children aged 0 to 5 travel free, and from 12 years old the adult price applies. Important: group trips only leave on Mondays and Fridays. If you book another day, we will contact you to change the date or arrange a private trip.
What is included
The price includes pick-up from your hotel in Hurghada, return transport to Marsa Alam, entry to Abu Dabbab beach and marine reserve, private sunbeds and umbrellas, snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins), an English-speaking snorkeling instructor and lunch on the beach. Drinks, photos and personal spending are at your own expense. As the road passes through Safaga, there is no extra charge from Safaga; from El Gouna, Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh or Soma Bay, add €10 per person. See the Marsa Alam sea turtle trip.
A typical day
- Around 5 am: pick-up from your hotel and drive south.
- Around 8:30 am: arrival at Abu Dabbab and settle into your sunbeds.
- Snorkeling with sea turtles from the beach, with the instructor.
- Free time: swim, snorkel again or simply relax on the white sand.
- Lunch on the beach.
- Around 3 pm: departure, back at your hotel around 6 pm.
Are you sure to see sea turtles?
Turtles are wild animals, so nobody can guarantee them 100%. That said, they are spotted almost every day at Abu Dabbab, and you may sometimes even come across a dugong. Keep your distance, do not touch them and let them come up to breathe freely: that is the best way to watch them for longer.
Our tips for your Marsa Alam day trip
- Get an early night: it is an early start, but you can rest during the drive.
- What to bring: towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Documents: a photo of your passport on your phone.
- Money: some cash for drinks and extras.
- The right day: book a Monday or Friday for the group trip.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Marsa Alam day trip from Hurghada?
€85 per adult on the group trip, €42.50 for children aged 6 to 11, and free for children aged 0 to 5. Lunch, equipment and beach entry are included.
Which days does the trip run?
Group trips run only on Mondays and Fridays. Private trips run every day.
Dolphins or sea turtles: which should you choose?
The two go well together. For sea turtles, Marsa Alam is the ideal place. For dolphins, the Dolphin House boat trip leaves directly from Hurghada, with two snorkeling stops and lunch on board. See the Dolphin House trip or read our guide to dolphin trips in Hurghada.
Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the trip. To book or ask a question, message us on WhatsApp at +20 101 780 8340.
Looking for more ideas? Discover our selection of the best things to do in Hurghada.
