Egypt is renowned for its stunning dive sites and vibrant marine life and offers a range of dive experiences in the Red Sea. This premier dive destination caters to all experience levels, is affordable, and boasts a range of dive destinations to choose from. Simply put, there is a lot to like about diving in Egypt. So if you’re planning your first trip to Egypt, here are ten top tips to help you make the most of your adventure, and an overview of the dive destinations you can choose from.
1. Understand the Dive Conditions.
Egypt’s Red Sea is famous for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Water temperatures typically range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) depending on the time of year and location. Visibility is usually excellent, often reaching up to 100 feet (30 meters). Be prepared for varying currents, especially in popular dive sites like the Straits of Tiran. Checking with a local dive center can help you prepare for the type of conditions you’ll encounter.
If you are a beginner diver, try diving the house reefs off Sharm El Sheikh’s beaches. They are generally calm, have plenty of vibrant marine life, and can be accessed from shore or by day boat diving. The nearby Straits of Tiran and Ras Mohammed National Park offer exciting drift dives, colorful reef dives, and thrilling deep dives.
2. Choose the Right Time to Visit.
Egypt offers great diving year-round, though there are seasonal differences to be aware of. Spring (March to May) is when marine life activity starts to increase and the water begins to warm up, making longer dives more comfortable. Summer (June to August) offers beautiful warm-water diving with larger marine species such as manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks, but it can be very hot on land.
Autumn (September to November) is a great time to dive, with cooler air temperatures and warm waters that make multi-dive days a breeze. But don’t forget winter (December to February). The water is cooler but still comfortable in winter, the days are sunny and calm, and there are fewer tourists.
3. Pack Accordingly
When packing for your dive trip to Egypt, think about the type of diving you will mostly be doing and if you will be based on land or not. Egypt offers a range of options, including shore diving, day-boat diving, and short and long liveaboards.
Include essentials such as a wetsuit, a dive computer, mask, fins, snorkel, and reef-safe sunscreen. If you’re planning to do multiple dives in a day on a liveaboard or day boat, consider bringing a drysuit or a semi-dry suit for extra warmth, and bring a change of clothes for between your dives.
4. Know What Marine Life to Expect
The Red Sea is teeming with marine life. Expect to see colorful soft and hard corals, schools of fish, and impressive pelagics. Common sightings include clownfish, parrotfish, and Napoleon wrasse. You might also encounter sea turtles, manta rays, sharks (such as reef sharks, hammerheads, and oceanic whitetip sharks), and beautiful blue-spotted stingrays. Be sure to have a marine life identification guide handy to enhance your diving experience.
5. Respect Local Marine Conservation
Egypt has several protected marine areas. Adhere to local guidelines to avoid damaging delicate corals or disturbing marine life. Avoid touching or standing on corals, and be mindful of your buoyancy to prevent accidental contact – the currents can be strong at some dive sites, so be prepared for that and consider doing a drift diving course before you visit.
6. Consider The Type of Diving You Love
Diving in Egypt offers everything from classic reef and wreck diving to night dives, exciting drift dives, deep dives, freediving, and technical dives. It is a very versatile dive area and one of those places where you can enjoy a range of dive styles at one destination.
With its clear, calm waters, Egypt is a great place to upskill with an advanced diving specialty and practice your dive skills so you can explore more fully. Alternatively, why not do something new like try freediving? Either way, you will be surrounded by beautiful reefs and abundant marine life.
Photo by geoff trodd on Unsplash
7. Choose a Reputable Dive Operator
Selecting a reliable dive operator is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Look for dive centers with good reviews, safety records, and experienced staff. Many operators offer packages that include accommodations, meals, and multiple dives, which can be a convenient option for first-time visitors.
8. Understand Local Culture and Etiquette
Egyptian culture is rich and diverse. When not diving, take time to explore local customs and practices. Egypt’s dive destinations cater to Western tourists and Western dress is accepted, but dress modestly when you visit local areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Arabic can also enhance your interactions with locals and show appreciation for their hospitality.
9. Plan Your Budget
Egypt is very budget-friendly compared to many other top diving destinations. However, costs can vary based on your choice of accommodation, dive packages, and additional activities. Budget for dive site entrance fees (if applicable), equipment rental, and potential excursions. Off-peak travel can also offer better deals on accommodations and dive packages.
10. Be Prepared for Safety and Emergencies
Ensure you have travel insurance that covers scuba diving and ensure it covers the depths you intend to dive at. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest medical facilities and decompression chambers. Diving in Egypt is generally safe, but having a plan for emergencies adds an extra layer of security to your trip.
Top 5 Dive Destinations in Egypt
Photo by Mohamed Elnaggar on Unsplash
1. Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh is Egypt’s flagship dive destination and a bustling resort town known for its vibrant nightlife and luxury accommodations. It’s a popular destination for families, couples, and divers seeking both relaxation and adventure. If you want to try a range of dive styles and tick off many of Egypt’s top dive sites, diving in Sharm El Sheikh is a good option for your first trip to Egypt.
Famous Dive Sites: Ras Mohammed National Park, the Straits of Tiran, and peaceful Shark Bay. Notable dive sites include the world-famous SS Thistlegorm wreck and the impressive Shark and Yolanda Reefs.
Marine Life Highlights: Expect to see an array of reef fish, moray eels, octopuses, sea turtles, small rays, and occasional large pelagics such as hammerhead sharks and manta rays.
Photo by Bahaa Mourad on Unsplash
2. Hurghada
Hurghada is a vibrant city with a mix of resort-style hotels, shops, and restaurants. It’s a great destination for divers looking for a lively atmosphere and a wide range of accommodations. The city offers options for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Famous Dive Sites: The Giftun Islands, the renowned Brothers Islands, and Abu Nuhas. Abu Nuhas is Egypt’s ‘ships graveyard’ and features a handful of impressive wrecks, including the famous 1869 SS Carnatic.
Marine Life Highlights: Hurghada is known for its colorful coral reefs, abundant fish life, and the occasional sighting of reef sharks and turtles.
Photo by Pascal van de Vendel on Unsplash
3. Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is a quieter destination compared to Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. Diving in Marsa Alam is ideal if you want to be based in a relaxed environment with fewer crowds. The area offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses.
Famous Dive Sites: Elphinstone Reef, the spectacular Daedalus Reef, and Dolphin House Reef. Marsa Alam is also known for its proximity to the remote Fury Shoals.
Marine Life Highlights: Marsa Alam is famous for its encounters with dugongs, as well as dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays. The reefs are rich with marine life, including colorful corals and schools of fish.
Photo by Nassim Wahba on Unsplash
4. Dahab
Dahab offers a more laid-back, bohemian vibe compared to other Red Sea destinations. It’s a favorite among backpackers, divers, and those looking for a more authentic Egyptian experience. The town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Famous Dive Sites: Diving in Dahab is famous for the Dahab Blue Hole, the Canyon, and the Lighthouse Reef. It is renowned for its freediving and shore dives.
Marine Life Highlights: The Blue Hole is famous for its unique geological formations and diverse marine life. Expect to see an array of reef fish, octopuses, and occasionally larger pelagic species.
Photo by Pascal van de Vendel on Unsplash
5. Safaga
Safaga is a smaller, quieter resort town known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent diving opportunities. It’s less commercialized than other destinations and is ideal for divers seeking a peaceful getaway.
Famous Dive Sites: The Panorama Reef, the 100-meter-long Salem Express wreck, and Abu Kefan. Diving in Safaga also boasts some lesser-known dive sites rich in marine life.
Marine Life Highlights: Safaga offers vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine species, including turtles, rays, and diverse fish populations. The wreck dives are particularly interesting here.
