Go Scuba Diving in Egypt in These 10 World Famous Places

Renowned as the Top Scuba Diving Destination in the World, Egypt is a beautiful country in North Africa with a coastline along the Red Sea. Scuba diving in Egypt offers an unforgettable experience with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and a vast array of marine life to discover.

One of the main reasons why Egypt is so popular among scuba divers is that the Red Sea is relatively warm all year round, making it the perfect destination for those who want to escape the cold winter months. These waters are also home to unique marine life of all shapes, sizes and colours that will fascinate your experience.

From drift diving to incredible night dives, Egypt offers a range of dive types making it a perfect scuba diving destination.

In this article, we will explore some of the best places to scuba dive in Egypt. We will also list out important information that will help you decide which place to visit to go scuba diving in Egypt, however you must try all! Let's dive in.

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10 Popular Scuba Diving Spots in Egypt

1. Thistlegorm Wreck, Sharm El-Sheikh

a scuba diver near to the old wrecked ship

The SS Thistlegorm in Egypt is an incredible underwater adventure of the most famous wrecks in the world. This 126-metre-long freighter was carrying military equipment during World War II and sank in 1941. As you descend into the depths of the Red Sea, you'll be transported back in time to a bygone era. The SS Thistlegorm's holds are packed with fascinating artefacts that have been preserved for over 75 years.

Considered a mecca for scuba divers from all over the world. The sheer amount of cargo that can be seen and explored is simply astounding. The wreck has become an artificial reef, providing a home for a vast array of marine life.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Shipwrecks, different types of cargo from shoes to motorcycles, steam engines and ammunition, crocodile fish, corals, macro life, scorpion fish, napoleon wrasse, two resident turtles, snappers, nudibranchs.
Depth: 7m - 32m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

2. Ras Mohammad Marine Reserve, Sharm El-Sheikh

female scuba diver looking at the sea plant

Ras Mohammad Marine Reserve in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt is a scuba diver's paradise. With crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, this reserve is a must-visit destination for any diving enthusiast. The reserve is at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula and is home to over 1,000 species of fish and 220 species of coral.

Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef are two popular sites with diverse and breathtaking views. Ras Za’atar, Anemone City, Jackfish Alley and Shark Observatory are other popular dive spots within the area. The stunning coral reefs make Ras Mohammad Marine Reserve a must-visit destination for any diving enthusiast.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Coral reefs, big-eye thresher sharks, reef sharks, snappers, batfish, barracuda, turtles, trevallies, jacks, dolphins, manta rays, dugong, snappers, tunas, angelfish, butterfly fish.
Depth: 5m - 40m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

3. Elphinstone Reef, Marsa Alam

Elphinstone Reef, located near Marsa Alam, Egypt is a true hidden gem. The reef is a long, narrow plateau that protrudes from the ocean floor, offering a unique diving experience that is unmatched by other dive sites in Egypt. As soon as you take the plunge into the crystal-clear waters, you are greeted by an underwater paradise of vibrant coral formations and a diverse range of marine life.

The visibility is excellent, and the water temperature is perfect for diving all year round, making it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced divers. The different shark species you can find here are some of the most exciting aspects of diving at Elphinstone Reef. These magnificent creatures may seem intimidating at first, but they are quite docile.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Coral reefs, reef sharks, barracudas, oceanic whitetip sharks, blacktip reef sharks, hammerheads, grey reef sharks, dolphins, turtles, tiger sharks, huge gorgonian fans, sea whips, trevallies, titan triggerfish, soldierfish, squirrelfish, anthias, trumpetfish, napoleon wrasse, lionfish, jacks, tunas.
Depth: 5m - 40m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

4. Abu Dabab, Marsa Alam

Going scuba diving in Abu Dabab, Marsa Alam in Egypt is the perfect destination because of its most picturesque diving in the Red Sea. As you plunge into the water, you'll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours and an array of exotic sea creatures.

The diving experience in Abu Dabab is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, the water is warm, and the visibility is excellent. You can witness the thrilling annual migration of the oceanic whitetip sharks.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Dugongs, turtles, moray eels, ghost pipefish, guitar shark, seahorses, rays, cuttlefish.
Depth: 3m - 30m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

5. Straits of Tiran, Sharm El-Sheikh

The Straits of Tiran is an experience like no other. Located in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, this diving site is a must-visit. Four narrow passages separate the Sinai Peninsula from the Tiran Island in the Red Sea. The site is home to a diverse range of marine life and is suitable for both experienced and novice divers. The site offers challenging drift dives and deep dives.

Wood House, Thomas Reef, Jackson Reef and Gordon Reef are some famous diving spots within the Straits of Tiran. Divers can explore the colourful coral formations and swim-throughs while keeping an eye out for pelagic life forms.

Unique Underwater Attractions: White tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, hammerheads, tiger sharks, coral gardens, caves, walls, critters, macro life, jackfish, tuna, barracuda, anemonefish, butterflyfish, rays, turtles, dolphins, trevallies, snappers, eels, octopi, lionfish.
Depth: 3m - 30m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

6. Wadi el Gemal, Hamata

Wadi el Gemal is a protected area near Hamata in the southern region of Egypt. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique underwater sights. The crystal-clear waters are home to various stunning coral reefs and incredible marine life.

Moreover, Wadi el Gemal harbours a collection of underwater caves and tunnels, offering a truly exclusive experience as divers venture into the hidden marvels of the sea.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Coral reefs, hammerhead sharks, reef sharks, dolphins, underwater rock formations, caves, tunnels, octopi, lobsters, eels, barracudas, groupers, lionfish, turtles.
Depth: 7m - 40m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

7. Blue Hole, Dahab

different fish moving forward at underwater

Scuba diving in the Blue Hole in Dahab, Egypt, is located on the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula. It is a natural wonder that attracts divers from all over the world. This underwater sinkhole is over 100 meters deep and is surrounded by coral reef walls. While it is a popular spot for experienced divers, it is not recommended for beginners as the depth and currents can be challenging.

The underwater tunnel, a thrilling highlight of the Blue Hole, is accessible to divers with the necessary training and equipment. Surrounded by towering rock formations, this site is a testament to the dramatic beauty of nature. Divers can venture into the underwater caves and tunnels, offering a glimpse into the geological wonders shaped over millions of years.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Red Sea Walkman, corals, barracudas, anemones, glassfish, cave sweepers, octopus, stonefish, devil scorpion fish, moray eels, reef sharks.
Depth: 10m - 26m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

8. St John’s and The Deep South

orange fish inside the cave of underwater

St John's and The Deep South in Egypt are two locations that offer some of the most stunning and diverse underwater landscapes in the world. St John's is a group of small islands in the Red Sea, located a few kilometres south of the Egyptian border with Sudan. The area is known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, steep walls, underwater caves, and beautiful coral gardens.

The Deep South is another must-visit destination for scuba divers in Egypt. This region is located south of St John's and is famous for its large pelagic marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and manta rays. The Deep South also boasts some of the most untouched and pristine coral reefs in the Red Sea, making it an excellent place for underwater photography.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Coral gardens, reefs, reef sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, giant moray eels, octopus, hammerhead sharks, barracuda, trevallies, batfish, anemonefish, Moorish idol, ribbon eels, turtles, shrimps, triggerfish tunas, parrotfish, stingrays, sweetlips.
Depth: 15m - 50m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

9. Salem Express, Hurghada

The Salem Express is a famous wreck in the Red Sea that is a fascinating dive site and a maritime grave that requires the utmost respect and sensitivity to visit.

The Salem Express was a passenger ship that sank in the Red Sea in mid-December 1991. Most passengers were pilgrims returning from Mecca, and sadly, many of them lost their lives in the tragic accident. Diving the wreck offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of history and pay respects to the victims of the tragedy.

Scuba divers can peer into windows and easily enter the ship from many points. The sea floor, 29 meters deep, is littered with debris, and the wreck still contains cars and luggage.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Shipwreck, debris, groupers, crocodile fish, surgeonfish, corals.
Depth: 12m - 30m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

10. SS Scaler, Ras Ghareb

bunch of fishes surrounded by a scuba diver

The SS Scaler is a sunken ship (1962) that provides a breathtaking underwater adventure for divers of all skill levels. The ship sank in 1962 and now lies at a depth of around 25 meters, providing an incredible opportunity for divers to explore the historical wreckage.

You can swim through the ship's various compartments and corridors, wheelhouse and engine room. Four major wrecks have been mapped in the region, but dive masters believe there are many more. You can also explore the SS Turkia, the MV Aboudy, and the MS Bakr shipwrecks.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Shipwreck, corals, reef fishes, turtles, octopus.
Depth: 12m - 40m
Costs: Individual dives - €40 - €300 & Courses - €60 - €1600

Best Time to Visit Egypt for Scuba Diving

You can visit Egypt all year round for a great scuba diving experience. If Hammerhead sharks are on your bucket list, then the months between June to September are the best time to visit Egypt for scuba diving. To spot Whale Sharks, the months between May to August are the best time to visit Egypt.

Necessary Things to Carry for Scuba Diving in Egypt

Before you go scuba diving in Egypt, be sure to carry these essential items:

Valid ID proof is a must
Swimwear, dry bag and towels
Hats, sunglasses and sunblock
First aid kit
Underwater camera, if needed with a case to protect your camera from getting wet.

Scuba diving operators in Egypt will provide you with scuba diving equipment. Be sure to check your equipment before you're in the water to avoid malfunctions.

Tips to Remember Before Scuba Diving in Egypt

Go for a medical check-up before your scuba dive to ensure that you are fit enough and don't face any complications mid-dive.

Dive only in designated areas and always pay attention to the guidelines set down by your instructor.
Wait for at least 2 hours after eating before you go scuba diving.
Avoid diving under the influence of substances or if advised against by a medical practitioner.
There should be a considerable time gap between flying, exercising and consuming after going scuba diving.

Egypt is a fantastic destination for scuba diving enthusiasts all year round. With its surrounding waters, the Red Sea and diverse marine life, it offers a unique experience for everyone.

Apart from the sea, you must also explore the beautiful attractions on the land such as the world-renowned pyramids – a major heritage site in Egypt, the city of Cairo, the Egyptian Museums, etc. Tourism in Egypt is an ever-growing sector because of how diverse the destination is. Egypt is globally famous for its ancient civilizations that are awe-striking to this day.

Before you head off on your scuba diving adventure in a new country, make sure that you have a comprehensive International Travel Insurance to Egypt that covers adventure activities such as scuba diving! This protects you financially in case of any medical emergencies while on your adventure.

Travel insurance also provides coverage against unforeseen circumstances that could arise before or on your trip. Make sure to compare your policy prices before buying a plan.

FAQs About Scuba Diving in Egypt

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Where is the best place to go scuba diving in Egypt for beginners?

The most ideal location in Egypt for beginner scuba divers is Marsa Alam. With its tranquil waters and shallow reefs, this beach town in southern Egypt is an excellent place for first-time divers. There are numerous dive schools and centres located there as well.

What can you see underwater when diving in Egypt?

Underwater Egypt is one of the best worlds for divers to explore, with countless dive sites filled with sharks, large fish, mantas, dolphins, turtles, hammerheads, thresher and whale sharks, and the most colourful corals. The area is also riddled with shipwrecks that are waiting for you to explore.

Is it safe to go scuba diving in Egypt?

Yes. Renowned as the Top Scuba Diving Destination in the World, Egypt is a beautiful scuba diving destination that prioritizes safety when it comes to this unique experience.

If you are diving in the Red Sea, you can experience strong currents and drift dives which must be undertaken by experienced divers. Beginners must always dive with a professional after undergoing training or practice sessions to ensure nothing goes wrong when in the sea/ocean.

Does the Red Sea in Egypt have sharks?

Sharks are a sign of a healthy underwater ecosystem, and the Red Sea has plenty to justify this fact. You can go scuba diving with sharks in Egypt however, remember to be mindful of your surroundings and not panic when swimming among sharks.

Are shark attacks in Egypt common?

No, shark attacks are rare in the Red Sea coastal regions. There have been around 3 attacks over the past 2 years however, such cases are rare. It is important to exercise caution when diving with sharks as they can get very curious.