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Why Egypt is number one for diving holidays

Coral reefs, historic wrecks and more – here's why Egypt’s a top pick for divers.

Forget the Pyramids, the mummies and the ancient history for a second. Egypt’s diving scene is the number one reason you need to head there on a holiday. Visit the northern section of the Red Sea and you’ll discover a kaleidoscopic world of colourful fish, coral and shipwrecks to explore. The famous site has been named one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Underwater World’, all thanks to its beauty and diverse marine life. Best of all, there are diving and snorkelling sites to suit every experience level, from beginner to expert, so nobody will miss out. So, before you go digging around in the loft for that snorkel set you’ve not seen for a while, take a look at why you can’t miss a diving holiday to Egypt…


Once you’ve had a read, check out our Egypt deals.

There are more than 1,000 species of fish to spot

You won’t get bored of meeting marine life on your dives in Egypt. There are over 1,000 species of fish to spot in the Red Sea, from stingrays and puffer fish to angel fish and clown fish – basically, the entire cast of Finding Nemo. And that’s not all – green turtles, spinner dolphins and sea cows also call this underwater paradise home. Ten percent of the fish species that live here can’t be found anywhere else in the world, so diving trips to Egypt really are one of a kind.
Underwater view of fish and coral reef

You can explore shipwrecks

If you ask us, you absolutely must tick off a shipwreck on your diving trip – these coral-covered wrecks are not only a spectacular sight, but they also have their own stories attached to them. The SS Thistlegorm is a 1940s steamship that was sunk by German bomber planes during World War II, and can be found in the reefs near Sharm El Sheikh. From Hurghada, you can dive down to the huge MV Salem Express – a passenger ship that tragically sunk in a storm in 1991. Or take a trip to the Giannis D wreck which is home to dolphins, reef sharks and parrotfish.
Shipwreck in the red sea

You’ll see some of the most colourful coral in the world

The Red Sea coral reefs are more than 5,000 years old and span across 2,000 kilometres of coastline in various patterns and shapes. Fun fact: over 200 types of soft and hard coral make up the diving spots in the Red Sea. When you dive or snorkel down, you’ll see fish darting in and out of different types of sponges. Just don't forget your underwater camera.
Colourful coral

There are reefs for every kind of diver

Compared to other popular diving spots, the Red Sea is fairly shallow, which means you don’t have to dive down too far to experience the coral and marine life. If you don’t fancy donning your diving gear, the water is so clear you’ll see loads on a snorkelling trip, or even from a glass-bottom boat. Head to the Shaab El Erg reef and you might spot wild dolphins, or pick Umm Gammar and be on the lookout for moray eels. If you already have your PADI qualification, there are plenty of professional scuba centres that will take you to more advanced diving sites. The Shark and Yolanda Reef is a popular pick, where you can spot barracudas, snappers and blue-spotted stingrays.
Family snorkelling in the red sea

Where to stay

If you’re travelling without kids, the TUI BLUE Makadi Gardens in Hurghada should be on your shortlist – it’s set right on a beach, plus it’s got seven à la carte restaurants and a couple of pools. Just along the coast, TUI MAGIC LIFE Kalawy has plenty to keep you busy while you’re having a day off from diving – there are loads of activities day and night, plus it’s set on a lagoon where you can go paddleboarding and windsurfing. There’s also a coral reef on its doorstep? Meanwhile, over in Sharm El Sheikh, the TUI BLUE Sensatori Coral Sea lines up separate zones for adults and families, a 24-hour All Inclusive service and a long list of luxe room upgrades, including swim-ups and suites.

Find out more about TUI BLUE.
Family swim-up suite, TUI BLUE Sensatori Coral Sea

Ready to dive in?

Browse all our Egypt deals. Or, check out the best places for diving holidays, best beach holiday destinations and best places for winter sun.

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Author: Karl Taylor

Last updated: 20.06.2024

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