The Best Dive Sites in the Red Sea: A Guide to Diving in Egypt and Jordan
Are you ready to explore the depths of the Red Sea? If you’re a diving enthusiast, then Egypt and Jordan should be on your bucket list. The Red Sea is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and awe-inspiring coral reefs. Here’s a guide to the best dive sites in Egypt and Jordan, straight from an insider’s perspective.
Diving in Egypt
Egypt is home to some of the world’s most iconic dive sites. From the north in the Sinai Peninsula to the south in the city of Marsa Alam, Egypt has plenty of options for any type of diver.
Ras Mohammed
Located at the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Ras Mohammed is a national park that draws divers from all over the world. The park boasts an incredible array of marine life, including barracudas, sharks, and turtles. The best time to visit is from May to October when the waters are the calmest.
Tiran Island
Tiran Island is a small island in the Red Sea that offers diverse dive sites. The island has four main dive sites, including Jackson Reef, Woodhouse Reef, Thomas Reef, and Gordon Reef. These sites are home to various species of fish, including giant groupers and whale sharks.
Elphinstone Reef
Elphinstone Reef is one of Egypt’s premier dive sites. It’s a vertical reef that lies in the open sea, making it home to large pelagic species, including hammerheads, giant trevally, and tuna. The reef is for experienced divers only due to the strong currents.
Diving in Jordan
Jordan doesn’t have as many dive sites as Egypt, but that doesn’t mean it should be overlooked. Its dive sites are still worth exploring, especially if you want to dive in a unique and lesser-known location.
Aqaba
Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city and is home to some of the best dive sites in the country. The underwater terrain is diverse, ranging from shallow coral gardens to steep drop-offs. The marine life includes angelfish, butterflyfish, and moray eels.
Yamanieh Coral Reef
Yamanieh Coral Reef is a remote coral reef that can only be reached by boat from Aqaba. The reef is home to hundreds of species of fish as well as dolphins and turtles. This dive site is best for advanced divers, as the strong currents can be challenging.
The Cedar Pride wreck
The Cedar Pride is a sunken ship that rests on the seabed in Aqaba. The wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting various species of fish. The ship is a popular spot for divers of all levels, with plenty to explore both inside and outside the ship.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, the Red Sea has something for everyone. Egypt and Jordan have some of the best dive sites in the world, and it’s worth exploring them. From vibrant coral reefs to diverse marine life, the Red Sea will leave you in awe. So, strap on your gear and get ready to dive into an adventure of a lifetime!
