Hurghada
Hurghada is one of the original Red Sea diving hotspots, offering a fantastic blend of vibrant coral gardens, dramatic drop-offs, and intriguing shipwrecks. Situated on Egypt's mainland coast, it provides easy access to a multitude of dive sites suitable for every experience level. From shallow, sheltered reefs teeming with colorful fish perfect for training dives, to challenging deep walls and historic wrecks accessible via longer trips, Hurghada’s underwater landscape is incredibly diverse. Its accessibility and well-established diving infrastructure make it a premier choice for divers worldwide.
Diving in Hurghada is possible year-round, with crystal-clear waters offering visibility that often exceeds 30 meters (100 feet). The conditions are generally calm, making it an ideal location for learning to dive or enjoying relaxed, stress-free underwater excursions. Water temperatures are warm and comfortable, ranging from 22°C (72°F) in winter to a balmy 30°C (86°F) in summer. With its rich marine biodiversity, reliable conditions, and excellent value for money, Hurghada remains a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the world-renowned beauty of the Red Sea.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Hurghada, Egypt?
For local day trips from Hurghada, Egypt, sites in the Giftun Islands National Park are exceptionally popular. Gota Abu Ramada, often called the "Aquarium," is famous for its vast coral gardens and incredible density of fish life, including bannerfish, butterflyfish, and moray eels. Its easy conditions and abundant life make it a favorite for all diver levels. Famous wrecks like the Thistlegorm are also accessible on longer day trips or liveaboards.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Hurghada, Egypt?
Well-known sites include the Giftun Islands and the wrecks of Abu Nuhas. For something less crowded, consider southern sites like an excursion to Safaga's Panorama Reef or Salem Express wreck. Closer to Hurghada, Egypt, dive sites like El Fanadir offer unique wall diving experiences with a high chance of seeing octopus and stonefish, but are often overlooked for the more famous reefs. These spots provide excellent diving away from the main crowds.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Hurghada, Egypt?
Water temperatures in Hurghada, Egypt, vary seasonally. During the winter months (December to February), temperatures drop to around 21-23°C (70-73°F). They begin to warm up in spring, reaching 24-26°C (75-79°F). Summer (June to August) is the warmest period, with water temperatures peaking at 28-30°C (82-86°F). Autumn remains very pleasant, with temperatures gradually cooling from their summer highs.
When is the best time to visit Hurghada, Egypt?
The best time to dive in Hurghada, Egypt, is generally from March to May and September to November. During these months, the air and water temperatures are very pleasant, and you avoid the peak summer heat and the cooler winter water. The shoulder seasons also tend to be slightly less crowded. However, diving is excellent year-round, with summer offering the warmest water and winter providing quieter dive sites.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Hurghada, Egypt?
Visibility in Hurghada, Egypt, is generally excellent throughout the year, a key feature of the Red Sea. You can typically expect visibility ranging from 20 to 40 meters (65 to 130 feet). Occasionally, a spring plankton bloom can slightly reduce visibility for a short period, but this also attracts larger marine life. On most days, the clear, blue water provides breathtakingly wide-open views of the reefs and marine life.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Hurghada, Egypt?
While not guaranteed, the best chances for spotting whale sharks and manta rays near Hurghada, Egypt, are typically from May to August. The warmer water and plankton blooms during these months can attract these pelagic giants, particularly around the northern sites and offshore reefs. Dolphins are a common sight year-round, but there are no major, predictable mass migrations directly through the local Hurghada dive sites.
What marine life can I expect to see in Hurghada, Egypt?
Hurghada, Egypt, boasts incredible marine biodiversity. Expect to see vibrant coral reefs teeming with anthias, clownfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. Moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish are common. On the sandy bottoms, look for blue-spotted stingrays and crocodilefish. Pelagic species like barracuda, tuna, and jacks are often seen in the blue. Dolphins are also a frequent and welcome sight on the boat ride and underwater.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Hurghada, Egypt?
In the summer (June-September), when water is 28-30°C (82-86°F), a 3mm shorty or a rash guard is often sufficient. During the spring and autumn, a 3mm or 5mm full wetsuit is comfortable for diving in Hurghada, Egypt. For winter diving (December-February), when temperatures can drop to 21°C (70°F), a 5mm or 7mm full wetsuit, possibly with a hood or vest, is recommended to stay warm.
How do I get to Hurghada, Egypt?
The most direct way to get to Hurghada, Egypt, is by flying into Hurghada International Airport (HRG). The airport receives direct flights from many major cities in Europe and the Middle East. From the airport, it is a short taxi or pre-arranged transfer ride to the hotels and dive resorts located along the coast. Most dive centers and hotels can assist with arranging airport pickups for a seamless arrival.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Hurghada, Egypt?
The choice depends on your goals. Shore-based day trips from Hurghada, Egypt, are perfect for beginners, shorter holidays, and divers who want to mix diving with other activities. Liveaboards are ideal for dedicated divers wanting to access more remote and pristine sites that are difficult to reach on a day trip, such as the famous northern wrecks (Thistlegorm, Abu Nuhas). They offer more dives per day and a fully immersive experience.