Egypt Coral Reef Maps

Last Updated on 02/17/2024

The natural habitat for more than 1,000 species of fish and at least 200 species of corals, the Egypt coral reefs are among the richest marine ecosystems in the world.

Coral reefs around the Egypt coastline are found mainly in the North and in the South:

• Sharm El-Sheikh – the town is in the North, in the immediate proximity of Ras Mohammad National Park and with fringing reefs all along its coastline. The area features more than 220 different coral species, out of which more than 120 are soft corals. The water in the area is very shallow – coral colonies start at around 50 cm under the surface of the water and, in some parts, the reef is about 9 km wide. The place is rich not only in corals, but in other sea creatures as well – star fish, sea urchins and crustaceans feel at home here just as much as larger creatures such as hawksbill turtles and green turtles;
• Hurghada – located on the south-eastern cost of the country, the area features a number of extraordinary, colorful reef patches with hundreds of endemic species finding shelter and home among the corals. There are four wrecks in the area, too, so Hurghada provides excellent shelter for numerous fish species. The Hurghada area has off-shore reefs and fringing reef locations, the dominant species being star corals, vase corals, mushroom corals, table corals, porites and net fire corals – all of them spectacular.
• St. John’s Reef – located in the so-called Deep South, close to the deep waters of the Red Sea, the area astounds with its numerous coral walls and coral gardens that feature soft and hard corals alike. The huge reef formations have plenty of caves and swim-troughs that give home to very special creatures of the sea such as sharks, barracudas, rabbit fish, unicorn fish, green turtles, Napoleon fish or bumphead parrotfish.

Immense richness, variety and colorful beauty are the qualities that best describe the Egypt coral reefs – the warm shallow waters give home to the most wonderful creatures of the sea.

List of Dive Sites in Egypt

Egypt, known for its ancient civilization and some of the world’s most famous monuments, including the Giza pyramids and the Great Sphinx, is also home to some of the most spectacular dive sites on the planet. Its extensive coastline along the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea provides a plethora of underwater wonders for divers of all levels.

Unveiling the Underwater Wonders: Egypt’s Top Dive Sites

Diving in Egypt is an experience unlike any other, with the Red Sea offering some of the most vibrant and diverse marine life, along with crystal clear waters and historic wrecks. We have curated a list of the must-visit dive sites that showcase the best of Egypt’s underwater allure.

The Northern Red Sea: A Wreck Diver’s Paradise

1. SS Thistlegorm: The most famous wreck dive in the world, the SS Thistlegorm, is a World War II ship that was sunk in 1941. It lies at a depth suitable for intermediate divers and is home to a vast array of wartime artifacts and marine life.
2. Ras Mohammed National Park: This park is at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula and offers some of the most pristine reefs, steep wall dives, and a chance to see pelagic fish.
3. Abu Nuhas Reef: Known as the ‘Ships Graveyard,’ this site features four different wrecks that provide an exceptional experience for wreck enthusiasts.

The Southern Red Sea: Coral Reefs and Marine Biodiversity

1. Elphinstone Reef: Famous for its stunning soft corals and the chance to spot oceanic whitetip sharks, Elphinstone is a thrilling dive for the experienced diver.
2. The Brothers Islands: These two islands are a remote but rewarding destination, offering walls covered in soft corals, and the opportunity to see hammerhead and thresher sharks.
3. Daedalus Reef: Another remote reef that boasts an impressive lighthouse, steep walls, and frequent sightings of manta rays and sharks.

The Central Red Sea: Ideal for Beginners and Advanced Divers

1. Giftun Islands: These islands offer more than a dozen dive sites with shallow reefs ideal for beginners, as well as deep walls for advanced divers.
2. Sharm El Sheikh: A well-known dive hub with access to many sites, including the Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran.

Diving Seasons and Conditions

Egypt is a year-round diving destination, but the best conditions are typically from March to November. Visibility can exceed 30 meters, and water temperatures range from 22°C in winter to 30°C in summer.

Dive Site Conservation Efforts

Egypt has made significant efforts to protect its marine environment, with many areas designated as marine parks. Divers are encouraged to respect the underwater habitat by following no-touch and no-take rules.

FAQs

1. What level of diving experience is required for diving in Egypt? Diving sites in Egypt cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced divers.
2. Are there any specific health requirements for diving in Egypt? Divers should be in good health and have a certification from a recognized diving organization.
3. Can non-divers enjoy the marine life in Egypt? Yes, snorkeling is also a popular activity that allows non-divers to enjoy Egypt’s marine biodiversity.
4. What is the best time of year to dive in the Red Sea? The best diving conditions are typically from March to November, but diving is excellent year-round.
5. Are there any cultural considerations to keep in mind when diving in Egypt? Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress codes.

Conclusion

Egypt’s dive sites offer an unparalleled underwater adventure for divers. With its rich marine biodiversity, historical wrecks, and conservation efforts, Egypt continues to be a top destination for divers worldwide. Whether you are a novice or an expert, the Egyptian waters promise a sublime diving experience.