Three Pools is one of the best snorkeling spots in Dahab: three natural pools with sandy bottoms, 3 to 4 metres deep, lined up along the shore and surrounded by coral. It is just a short drive from town, easy for beginners and perfect for a relaxed day in the water. Here is how to get there, what it costs and how to combine it with the Wadi Qunai oasis.
Three Pools at a Glance
- What it is: three natural sandy pools separated by very shallow coral “saddles”.
- Depth: around 3 to 4 metres — comfortable for snorkelers of all levels.
- Getting there: about 7 minutes by car from Dahab, or about 1 hour by camel.
- Facilities: local restaurants on the shore for food, drinks and shade.
Three Pools Tours Compared
| Tour | Getting there | Start | Duration | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Pools | By car (7 min) or by camel (1 hour) | 09:00, 10:00 or 11:00 | About 6 hours | $20 by car, $30 by camel |
| Wadi Qunai and Three Pools | By camel (2 hours) or jeep (30 min) | 10:00 | About 6 hours, back around 16:00 | $35 |
Private tours are also available; current group and private prices are listed on each tour page.
A Day at Three Pools
- Pick-up from your hotel in Dahab at 09:00, 10:00 or 11:00.
- A 7-minute drive — or a one-hour camel ride along the coast.
- Snorkel the three pools at your own pace and relax at the beach restaurants.
- Return by car whenever you are ready.
Adding Wadi Qunai Oasis
The Wadi Qunai and Three Pools tour starts at 10:00 with a 2-hour camel ride (or 30 minutes by jeep) to Three Pools for snorkeling. You then ride on for 30 minutes (or drive 10 minutes) to Qunai Oasis, where fresh water runs out between the rocks in the middle of the desert, before returning to Dahab around 16:00.
What Is Included
The tours include transport, a snorkel mask, camels where chosen and lunch. Fins are not included, nor are drinks, tips or the Blue Hole entry fee.
Snorkeling Tips
Tip: Bring your own fins or rent them in Dahab — only a mask is included.
Tip: Never stand on the coral saddles between the pools; swim over them at high water or walk around on the sand.
Tip: Reef-safe sunscreen and a rash vest protect both you and the coral.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Three Pools good for beginners?
Yes. The pools are sheltered, sandy and only 3 to 4 metres deep, which makes them one of the easiest snorkeling spots in Dahab.
How far is Three Pools from Dahab?
About 7 minutes by car from Dahab, or about one hour if you choose to ride there by camel.
How much does a Three Pools trip cost?
Group trips start from $20 by car and $30 by camel; the Wadi Qunai and Three Pools tour starts from $35.
Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is included on both tours. Drinks are extra.
