Dahab, located on the Egyptian Sinai Peninsula along the Red Sea, is a welcoming haven for divers. Famous for its remarkable shore diving, this coastal town offers some of the world's most renowned dive sites. While the Canyon and Blue Hole are the most famous, Dahab boasts many other equally captivating dive locations.

**Sea Life**
------------

The Red Sea, surrounding Dahab, teems with an array of marine life. While it's uncommon to spot sharks in this region, divers can encounter typical Red Sea reef species like barracudas, jacks, and turtles. The coral, though damaged in shallow areas due to mass diving and carelessness, thrives in protected zones such as Ras Mumlach and Ras Abu Galum, showcasing vibrant hard and soft coral formations.

**When to Go**
--------------

Dahab offers year-round diving opportunities, but water temperatures vary significantly. The hottest months, from July to September, see water temperatures around 28°C. In contrast, February marks the coldest month with temperatures around 21°C. For milder conditions, consider visiting from October to November or March to June, with water temperatures ranging from 22°C to 25°C.

**Hot Tip:** To avoid crowded dive sites, it's advisable to steer clear of the high season from July to December and book accommodations well in advance if traveling during this period.

**Marine Conservation**
-----------------------

While Dahab's marine environment remains a remarkable sight, coral damage in shallow areas highlights the importance of responsible diving practices. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the preservation of this unique underwater ecosystem. Divers should prioritize eco-friendly practices and adhere to local guidelines to protect the fragile coral reefs.

**Climate**
-----------

Dahab enjoys warm weather year-round, with temperatures soaring to around 33°C in July and August, making it perfect for above-water activities. In contrast, winter months offer milder temperatures, averaging around 18 or 19°C. The Red Sea's high salinity, with 41 parts per thousand compared to the ocean's 35 parts per thousand, results from minimal freshwater input and intense evaporation. Divers should adjust their buoyancy by using more weight than usual due to this elevated salinity.

**Popular Dives**
-----------------

Dahab boasts approximately 20 captivating dive sites, each with its unique charm. Some of the standout sites include:

-   **Dahab Blue Hole:** A famous dive site with a large hole within the coral reef, descending to 80 meters, featuring a 30-meter arch leading to the open sea. It's a must-visit for divers seeking a thrilling experience.
-   **The Canyon:** An underwater tube-like structure plunging to 30 meters, reserved for experienced divers. Alongside the Blue Hole, it can get crowded, so timing is key.
-   **Eel Garden:** Offering an opportunity to witness the vibrant coral and reef life, this site is a must-see for underwater enthusiasts.
-   **Lighthouse Reef and The Islands:** Both sites offer diverse marine life and captivating underwater landscapes.

**Getting There**
-----------------

The nearest airport to Dahab is Sharm el-Sheikh, accessible via international flights. From there, travelers can reach Dahab by taxi or bus, with many dive companies and hotels offering transfer services. A relaxed atmosphere, shore diving, and the charm of Dahab make it a destination well worth the visit for divers of all levels.

The easiest way to get to Dahab is to fly to **[Sharm El-Sheikh](https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/sharmacc.html)** or Taba, then travel overland up or down the Sinai Peninsula. You do not need a visa for Dahab, so there's no need to queue for one at the airport. Once out of the airport, you can take a bus or a taxi to Dahab. Your dive company or hotel can often arrange the taxi transfer for you. Buses run from Sharm to Dahab eight times a day.

Dahab

Situated along Egypt's captivating Red Sea coast, Hurghada stands as a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts worldwide. This enchanting locale offers crystal-clear waters and resplendent coral gardens, serving as the backdrop for extraordinary encounters with marine life that even novice divers dream of. From peering into the hull of a sunken minesweeper to drifting along coral-rich reefs or capturing the curious behaviors of sea creatures at cleaning stations, Hurghada's underwater world offers a mesmerizing range of experiences. Inhabitants include majestic turtles, playful dolphins, and even the opportunity to swim alongside awe-inspiring whale sharks, provided you time your visit just right.

**Sea Life**
------------

Hurghada's aquatic realm teems with an impressive array of marine species. While whale sharks and white-tip sharks are prominent attractions, the Red Sea's allure extends far beyond its sharks. The vibrant coral forests provide havens for an abundance of marine life, from parrotfish, butterfly fish, and spangos to emperor angelfish, groupers, barracuda, giant morays, carpet flat heads, Picasso triggers, freckled hawkfish, and feather stars. The region occasionally witnesses the graceful arrival of manta rays and hawksbill turtles, although their visits tend to be fleeting.

**When to Go**
--------------

Scuba diving is a year-round activity in Hurghada, thanks to favorable conditions. While water temperatures range from a balmy 28°C in August to a cooler 21°C in January, the region accommodates divers throughout the calendar. To maximize your chances of encountering whale sharks, plan your visit between May and July.

**Marine Conservation**
-----------------------

Despite some degradation of coral reefs near Hurghada due to tourism and development, conservationists have stepped in to protect and rejuvenate these vital ecosystems. Organizations like the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association are actively involved in cleaning the ocean, educating lodges on sustainable practices, and conserving marine life throughout the Red Sea.

**Climate**
-----------

Hurghada enjoys a sub-tropical desert climate characterized by warm winters and scorching summers. While the dive season spans the entire year, specific periods are favored due to marine life seasons and water temperature fluctuations. Water temperatures range from their coldest point in February to a peak of around 28°C during the high season in August. Divers should select appropriate exposure protection based on the season, with a 5mm full-length wetsuit typically sufficient for most conditions.

**Popular Dives**
-----------------

-   **Wrecks:** Hurghada beckons wreck diving enthusiasts with iconic sites such as the Thistlegorm, a World War II cargo ship carrying a trove of historical artifacts, and Abu Nuhas, a shipwreck graveyard featuring multiple sunken vessels in close proximity.
-   **Reefs:** Renowned reefs like Elphinstone and Daedalus offer encounters with pelagic species, including the coveted Whale Shark, as well as thrilling sightings of schooling hammerheads.
-   **Turtles:** Divers frequently cross paths with two common turtle species: the Hawksbill and the Green Turtle. While Hawksbills are found in various dive sites across the region, Green Turtles are almost guaranteed sightings in the southern dive site of Marsa Shouna.

**Getting There**
-----------------

Reaching Hurghada is convenient, primarily through its international airport, which connects to numerous European and domestic destinations. Visitors can also opt for a scenic 7-hour bus journey from Cairo, with reputable operators like Super Jet and Go Bus providing multiple daily departures. Bus travel is also available from Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan. For those connecting from Sharm el Sheikh, a luxury high-speed ferry offers several weekly connections between the two ports. Travelers can book ferry trips through local hotels and travel agencies, typically requiring advance reservations. Hurghada is generally a safe and tranquil destination for tourists, offering a haven nestled within its expansive resorts. While venturing into the bustling bazaars of Hurghada's main city, some visitors may encounter assertive vendors and inflated prices. However, a confident yet friendly approach to bartering can ensure an enjoyable shopping experience.

Hurghada

Marsa Alam, situated in the southern region of Egypt's Red Sea, stands as a scuba diver's paradise, offering unparalleled underwater experiences. Known for its pristine reefs, prolific marine life, and thriving coral ecosystems, Marsa Alam distinguishes itself as one of the premier scuba diving destinations in the Red Sea and Egypt as a whole. Diving enthusiasts are treated to encounters with a diverse array of marine species, including dolphins, sea turtles, dugongs, sharks (such as Silvertip Sharks and Grey Reef Sharks), tuna, barracuda, and more. Marsa Alam is especially renowned for its seasonal appearances of Whale Sharks and Manta Rays. The area features several exceptional dive sites, including Elphinstone Reef, Dolphin House, Abu Dabbab, Fury Shoals, and the captivating Hamada shipwreck.

**Sea Life**
------------

Marsa Alam's underwater realm teems with captivating sea life. Divers have the chance to interact with Bottle Nose Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, Sea Turtles, Dugongs (a rare and endangered species), Silvertip Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks, Tuna, Barracuda, and an assortment of colorful reef fish. The area is celebrated for its pelagic fish encounters, and it's during specific seasons that divers may be fortunate enough to spot the elusive Whale Sharks and majestic Manta Rays.

**When to Go**
--------------

Diving in Marsa Alam is an option year-round, thanks to the Red Sea's relatively mild climate. Water temperatures range from 24°C in January to a balmy 30°C in the summer months. For dedicated enthusiasts, certain periods offer exceptional highlights. Whale Sharks make appearances in May and June, while Manta Rays grace the waters from May through August. Hammerhead Sharks and Oceanic Whitetip Sharks are frequently sighted in Elphinstone Reef between May and October. The renowned Oceanic Whitetip Shark season in Elphinstone Reef runs from October to December.

**Marine Conservation**
-----------------------

Marsa Alam takes its marine conservation seriously. The region boasts several protected marine areas and reefs, underlining the importance of sustainable and responsible diving practices. Divers are encouraged to uphold high standards of environmental awareness and conservation to preserve these delicate ecosystems.

**Climate**
-----------

The Red Sea region experiences mild winters from November to April and hot summers from May to September. Marsa Alam tends to have slightly higher temperatures compared to its northern counterparts, with water temperatures fluctuating between 22°C in winter and 28°C in summer. Strong winds can be prevalent from November to February, potentially affecting some dive sites and leading to choppier seas.

**Popular Dives**
-----------------

-   **Elphinstone Reef:** Regarded as one of the world's premier dive sites, Elphinstone Reef enchants divers with its stunning wall drift diving, vibrant coral, and remarkable marine life. The site is renowned for regular encounters with schooling Hammerhead Sharks and the potential to spot the elusive Oceanic Whitetip Shark. Elphinstone Reef is recommended for experienced divers.
-   **Dolphin House (Sha'ab Samadai):** This exceptional reef forms a protective lagoon known for its excellent visibility. Besides offering superb scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, the highlight here is the resident spinner dolphin pod. It's often possible to swim or dive with these intelligent creatures, resulting in an unforgettable experience.
-   **Abu Dabbab:** One of the area's most popular dive sites, Abu Dabbab is unique for its potential to dive with the exceedingly rare and endangered Dugongs. This shallow bay also hosts a significant population of large Green Sea Turtles. The guitar shark, another rarity, can occasionally be encountered here, making it an excellent spot for underwater photography.
-   **Fury Shoals:** Renowned for its untouched reefs boasting magnificent hard and soft coral formations, Fury Shoals is a haven for divers seeking pristine underwater landscapes.
-   **Hamada Wreck:** While Marsa Alam doesn't offer many compelling wreck dives, the Hamada wreck provides an accessible and spectacular shore dive. This former 65-meter-long ship, which sank in 1993, is a magnet for underwater photographers.

**Getting There**
-----------------

Marsa Alam is easily accessible through Marsa Alam International Airport, with direct flights available from numerous European cities. Travelers can also opt to fly into Hurghada or Cairo and then proceed via domestic flights or a three-hour drive to Marsa Alam. Liveaboard options are available for those keen on exploring remote dive sites, such as the Brother Islands, Daedalus Reef, and more. The area offers a blend of accessibility to shore dives and convenient day trips to renowned dive sites.

Marsa Alam

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.

Safaga

The Sinai Peninsula, located at the northern tip of the Red Sea, holds a rich history, but its allure as a scuba diving paradise is undeniable. Sharm El Sheikh, nestled close to the peninsula's southern edge, emerges as the crown jewel of Red Sea diving destinations. It serves as a launchpad for liveaboard safaris, day trips from local resorts, and novice diver training. This region offers a diverse spectrum of diving experiences, from the resplendent reefs of Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed to the iconic SS Thistlegorm shipwreck. Beyond exceptional diving, Sharm El Sheikh provides a comprehensive tourist experience with vibrant nightlife, delectable cuisine, shopping havens, and thrilling desert safaris.

**Sea Life**
------------

The warm embrace of the Red Sea's waters around the Sinai Peninsula teems with a mesmerizing array of marine life. Ras Mohammed, perched at the peninsula's apex, stands out for its remarkable and unique ecosystem. Jackson Reef, famed for its strong currents, provides opportunities to encounter hammerhead sharks, schools of barracudas, and even the enigmatic tiger shark. The SS Thistlegorm wreck, a cherished highlight, houses a well-preserved cargo and an intriguing history. The strong currents in the area nourish coral reefs, fish populations, and a profusion of marine creatures, ensuring that diving in this region is nothing short of extraordinary.

**When to Go**
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The allure of Sharm El Sheikh's underwater wonders beckons year-round. Water temperatures reach their zenith in July to September, hovering around a balmy 27-28°C. October and November witness a slight dip to 27-25°C. As the year draws to a close, temperatures continue to decline through December and January, reaching an annual low of 22°C. With the advent of March, the water gradually warms up again, reaching a comfortable 23-26°C by June. The peak diving months are October and November, while December to January constitutes the low season due to choppier waters.

**Marine Conservation**
-----------------------

Numerous dive sites encircling Sharm El Sheikh are designated protected areas, such as those within the boundaries of the Ras Mohammed National Park. These protected zones serve as sanctuaries for the preservation of the marine ecosystem, strictly forbidding any form of collection or disturbance of wildlife.

**Climate**
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Sharm El Sheikh is embraced by a warm, arid climate. During the summer months, average air temperatures soar to 35-38°C, providing sun-drenched days. In the winter period from November to February, temperatures cool down to a pleasant 22-24°C. This seasonal contrast mirrors the water temperatures in the Red Sea.

**Popular Dives**
-----------------

1.  **Jackson Reef:** Revered for its robust currents and extraordinary marine life, including sightings of hammerhead sharks.
2.  **SS Thistlegorm:** An iconic World War II wreck that has preserved its cargo, offering a window into history.
3.  **Shark Reef to the Yolanda:** This site features the Yolanda wreck and scattered cargo containers on a plateau, making it a captivating dive.

**Getting There**
-----------------

Reaching Sharm El Sheikh is a seamless endeavor, and it offers a plethora of diving options to cater to various preferences. Noteworthy areas for diving charters and accommodations include Na'ama Bay and Shark's Bay, both popular among divers. The Ras Mohammed National Park, characterized by stringent wildlife protection measures, is a favored destination for divers. Sharm El Sheikh boasts a profusion of dive centers and schools, making it a haven for both novice divers and seasoned enthusiasts.

**Diving Overview**
-------------------

Sharm El Sheikh boasts a well-established diving infrastructure, with a multitude of rental companies and a plethora of dive trips to explore iconic sites. The region typically boasts excellent underwater visibility year-round, with Spring and Summer being prime times for diving. While some areas feature strong currents, the majority of diving sites offer manageable conditions. Divers can embark on captivating journeys exploring shipwrecks, coral walls, and drift diving opportunities, often necessitating boat access. Aspiring divers can take advantage of numerous opportunities to obtain PADI certification, solidifying Sharm El Sheikh's status as one of the world's premier diving destinations.

Sharm El Sheikh

Crazy Waves Diving - Sahl Hashish

Divers Lodge

Pro Master Diving Club

Cave Divers

Funny Divers

White Whale Divers

Blue Water Dive Resort

Dive Hurghada

Shamandura Diving

Abu Dabbab

Abu Ghalawa

Abu Hashish

Abu Kifan

Abu Nuhas

Abu Ramada North

Abu Ramada South

Amphoras

Banana Reef

Belina Wreck

Big Brother Island

Big Giftun

Blue Hole - El Bells

Carless Reef

Carnatic

Deadalus Reef

Dunraven (Beacon Rock)

Eel Garden

Eel Gardens

El Erug

El Fanadir

El Fanous West

El Mina Wreck

Elphinstone

Erg Abu Ramada

Erg Sabina

Erg Somaya

Far Garden

Fiddle Garden

Fury Shoals

Giannis D

Gordon Reef

Gota Abu Ramada

Habili Ali

Hamda

Jackfish Alley

Jackson Reef

Kimon M

Kormoran

Laguna Reef

Lighthouse

Little Brother Island

Marcus

Middle Garden

Moray Garden - Golden Blocks

Napoleon Reef

Near Garden

North Gabr El Bint

North Ras Abu Galum

Panorama Reef

Paradise

Pinky Wall

Ras Abu Helal

Ras Bob

Ras Burg

Ras Disha

Ras Ghamila

Ras Ghozlani

Ras Katy

Ras Nasrani

Ras Um Sid

Ras Zaatar

Rosalie Moller

SS Turkia

Salem Express

Shaab Abu Nugar

Shaab Claudia

Shaab Eissa

Shaab El Erg

Shaab Eshta

Shaab Maksur

Shaab Petra

Shaab Sabina

Shaab Sataya

Shabrur Um Gamar

Shag Rock (Kingston)

Shark & Yolanda Reef

Shark Observatory

Shark's Bay

Siyul Kebira

Small Crack

Small Giftun

Sodfa

Soma Bay Garden

South Ras Abu Galum

Temple

The Alternatives

The Barge at Bluff point

The Canyon

The Caves

The Islands

Thistlegorm

Thomas Reef

Three Pools

Tower

Turft El Shahed

Turtle Bay

Turtle Reef

Umm Gamar North

Umm Gamar South

1 Day (2 Dive Package)

10 Days (20 Dive Package)

10 Dive Package

12 Dive Package

2 Days (4 Dive Package)

2 Dive Package

3 Days (6 Dive Package)

4 Days (8 Dive Package)

5 Days (10 Dive Package)

6 Days (12 Dive Package)

6 Dive Package

8 Dive Package

Abu Dabbab North + Fury Shoals

Abu Hashish + Ras Disha

Abu Ramada North + El Erug

Abu Ramada North + Erg Somaya

Abu Ramada North + Small Giftun

Abu Ramada North + South

Abu Ramada South + El Erug

Abu Ramada South + Erg Somaya

Abu Ramada South + Shaab Petra

Banana Reef + Careless Reef

Bellina Wreck + El Mina Wreck

Careless Reef + Banana Reef

Supplement - Required if not dived for 6 months. Scuba review is required if not dived for 12 months

.css-19ll4f8{color:var(--chakra-colors-brand-400);}Upcoming .css-2exqvo{color:var(--chakra-colors-secondaryGray-900);}Dive Trips

Upcoming Dive Trips