Safaga

Safaga, located on Egypt's Red Sea coast, is a thriving port town and renowned diving destination, ranking among Egypt's top five dive spots. Divers flock to Safaga for its diverse underwater landscapes, including barrier and table reefs, coral pinnacles, and plunging walls that reach depths of over 300 meters. The area boasts an array of marine life and is home to the iconic Salem Express wreck.

Sea Life

Safaga's underwater realm is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. Divers can encounter a variety of marine species, including Hammerhead sharks, Sea Turtles, Barracuda, Blacktail Sharks, Napoleon Wrasse, and schools of colorful reef fish. The coral gardens, walls, and wrecks provide a thriving ecosystem for marine life.

When to Go

Diving in Safaga is a year-round pleasure, as the Red Sea offers favorable conditions throughout the year. Weather conditions seldom become extreme, making diving possible even in less-than-ideal weather. Water temperatures range from a maximum of 28°C in the summer months (June to September) to a minimum of 21°C in February. Visibility consistently hovers around 22-25 meters.

Types of Diving

Safaga offers various diving experiences, including:

Wreck Diving: The Salem Express wreck, which sank in 1991, is a mesmerizing dive site. Divers can't enter the wreck, but its exterior has evolved into a thriving ecosystem, hosting corals and marine life.
Shore Diving: Most dive centers in Safaga focus on shore diving, as many top dive sites are accessible from the coast. The area is known for its vibrant coral walls and gardens.
Liveaboard Diving: Safaga is a popular departure point for liveaboard dive trips, especially to more remote sites located offshore.
Night Diving: Night dives at sites like the Seven Pillars offer encounters with fascinating creatures like Lionfish, which hunt using divers' torchlight beams.

What to See

Dive sites in Safaga offer diverse marine encounters. Abu Kafan is known for spotting larger marine life, including Hammerhead sharks, Sea Turtles, Barracuda, Blacktail Sharks, and reef sharks. Panorama Reef features Gorgonia-filled crevices and offers the possibility of Napoleon Wrasse, turtles, and occasional dolphin sightings. Middle Reef provides exciting drift dives along coral walls and extensive coral gardens. Abu Kafan stands out with its 300-meter-long barrier reef plateau, home to Gorgonians, soft corals, and the chance to spot Barracuda, Hammerheads, and more.

The Seven Pillars is unique, with seven coral pinnacles on a sandy bottom, creating a maze-like diving experience. Divers can expect to encounter Lion Fish, reef fish, and even resident turtles at this site.

Best Places to Dive

Salem Express Wreck: Despite the tragic sinking of this passenger ferry in 1991, the Salem Express wreck is now teeming with marine life and offers a spectacular wreck dive. While penetration is not allowed, the exterior is a testament to nature's resilience.
Panorama Reef: This large reef table, situated at 30 meters depth, features stunning Gorgonia-filled crevices. Depending on conditions, currents may allow for drift diving past Anemone Fish and reef fish, with potential encounters with Napoleon Wrasse, turtles, and dolphins.
Middle Reef: Ideal for drift diving enthusiasts, Middle Reef offers the opportunity to glide past impressive coral walls and explore vast coral gardens.
Abu Kafan: This 300-meter-long barrier reef plateau houses massive Gorgonians, soft corals, and black corals. It's suited for advanced divers and offers drift dives along overhang environments. The coral walls here plunge to depths exceeding 300 meters, making it a stunning sight. Barracuda, Hammerheads, and other significant species are occasionally sighted.
Seven Pillars: This unique dive site features seven coral pinnacles on a sandy bottom, creating a maze-like underwater landscape. Divers can explore flourishing corals, Lion Fish, reef fish, and encounter resident turtles. It's suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

Marine Conservation

Safaga is part of the larger Red Sea region, known for its conservation efforts and the establishment of protected marine areas. Dive centers in the area promote responsible diving practices to preserve the delicate underwater ecosystems.

Climate

Safaga enjoys a mild climate, with winters from November to April and hot summers from May to September. Water temperatures vary from 21°C in February to 28°C in August and September. Visibility remains constant, typically around 22-25 meters.

Getting There

While Safaga has its port, liveaboard departures often take place from the more established departure port of Hurghada, located north of Safaga. Hurghada has its international airport and domestic flights to/from Cairo, making it a convenient hub for travelers seeking Red Sea liveaboard experiences.