Egypt, home to ancient pyramids and a vibrant culture, also hosts some of the world’s most breathtaking underwater treasures. Its unique location at the convergence of the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea provides a myriad of diving opportunities with incredible marine biodiversity. Here’s an in-depth guide to exploring the underwater splendors that Egypt offers.

Explore Diving in Egypt

\Whether you’re a novice diver or a seasoned pro, Egypt offers something for everyone. Its underwater terrain is as diverse as it is captivating – vibrant coral gardens, intriguing wrecks, and dramatic wall dives await.

When to Dive in Egypt

\Diving in Egypt is accessible all year round, with water temperatures ranging from 20°C in the winter to 30°C in the summer. However, for the most comfortable conditions, many divers prefer to visit between April and October.

Why People Dive in Egypt

Divers are drawn to Egypt for numerous reasons – its accessibility, affordability, variety of dive sites, and incredible marine life. Its waters are home to over 1,000 species of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sharks, and sea turtles.

Where to Dive in Egypt

The Red Sea is teeming with renowned dive sites. Sharm El Sheikh, known for the Ras Mohammed National Park, offers impressive wall dives and vibrant reefs. Hurghada is popular among novice divers, while advanced divers often favor the challenges posed by the Thistlegorm wreck. The southern towns of Marsa Alam and Dahab are also worth exploring.

Book Your Diving in Egypt

Planning your diving trip to Egypt is made easy with numerous dive centers and resorts catering to all experience levels. Ensure to research and choose a reputable operator, taking into account reviews and certifications.

Common Marine Life in Egypt

Diving in Egypt’s rich and biodiverse waters offers a front-row seat to an underwater spectacle like no other. Here are 20 of the most common marine species you’re likely to encounter on your diving adventures: Lionfish: With their vivid stripes and spiky fins, lionfish are a sight to behold but be careful – their spines are venomous. Butterflyfish: These colorful, disc-shaped fish are a common sight around coral reefs. Clownfish: Made famous by “Finding Nemo,” clownfish are often spotted nestled among anemones. Napoleon Wrasse: This large and vibrant fish is a joy to spot, known for its prominent hump and thick lips. Blue-Spotted Stingrays: Lying flat on the seafloor, these rays are easily identifiable by their bright blue spots. Moray Eels: These serpentine creatures may look intimidating, but they are generally shy and pose little threat to divers. Barracuda: With their sleek bodies and sharp teeth, barracudas are formidable predators. Hawksbill Turtles: Named for their distinct beak-like mouths, these turtles are a highlight for many divers. Dolphins: Both bottlenose and spinner dolphins are frequently seen, often in large pods. Scorpionfish: Masters of camouflage, spotting these interesting fish is a rewarding challenge. Manta Rays: These gentle giants are often spotted gracefully gliding through the waters. Red Sea Clownfish: Unique to the Red Sea, these clownfish species are a joy to spot. Whale Sharks: Although sightings are rare, the gentle whale shark occasionally graces divers with its presence. Tuna: Quick and powerful swimmers, tunas are a thrilling sight on open water dives. Grouper: These large fish are often found lurking in crevices and caves. Pufferfish: Known for their ability to inflate their bodies, pufferfish are a fascinating encounter. Parrotfish: With their vibrant colors and beak-like jaws, parrotfish are essential in maintaining the health of coral reefs. Nudibranchs: These small, brightly colored sea slugs are a macro photographer’s dream. Dugongs: While rare, spotting the sea cow is a treat for lucky divers. Hammerhead Sharks: The unusual shape of these sharks makes them easily identifiable. They can often be seen in schools around offshore reefs. More Information About Egypt Situated in northeastern Africa, Egypt is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage. Beyond diving, its landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, its bustling markets, and flavorful cuisine are worth experiencing.

Getting to Egypt

Egypt is well-connected globally via its international airports, with Cairo International Airport (CAI) being the largest. Sharm El Sheikh (SSH), Hurghada (HRG), and Marsa Alam (RMF) also have international airports.

Weather in Egypt

Egypt enjoys a hot desert climate with high temperatures throughout the year. However, it tends to be cooler along the coast. The weather is generally dry except for the winter months (December to February) when it can get a bit rainy. Time Zone in Egypt Egypt operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2. During daylight saving, from the last Friday in April to the last Thursday in September, it is UTC +3. Country Code and Currency The international dialing code for Egypt is +20. The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Voltage, Pressure, and Plugs Egypt operates on a supply voltage of 220 volts. The standard plug type is Type C and Type F. Divers often use Bar (bar) as the unit of pressure underwater. The typical starting pressure in a full scuba tank is about 200 bar.

Languages

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger generations.

Conclusion

Egypt, with its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and historical treasures, offers a unique diving experience. This beautiful country awaits your exploration, both above and below the waterline. So pack your bags, prepare your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Egypt.