Ras Muhammad National Park: Diving and Snorkelling Guide

At the very southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba meet, lies one of the finest marine reserves in the world. Ras Muhammad National Park is famous for its dramatic coral walls, clear blue water and abundant sea life, drawing divers and snorkellers from across the globe. As Egypt’s first national park, it protects a stretch of Red Sea reef that ranks among the best on the planet. This guide explains what it is, what you see and how to visit, usually as a day trip from Sharm el-Sheikh.

What the park is and why it matters

Ras Muhammad (its name means “Cape of Muhammad”) was established as Egypt’s first national park to protect a rich and fragile marine environment at the southern point of Sinai. Above the water it is stark desert; below it, the reefs drop away into deep, clear blue, creating the steep coral walls that make the site legendary among divers.

Its position at the meeting of two gulfs brings nutrient-rich currents and an exceptional diversity of life. The park protects coral reefs, seagrass, mangroves and the creatures that depend on them, and visitor numbers and activities are managed to keep this ecosystem healthy. It is a place to enjoy gently and leave exactly as you found it.

What you see above and below the water

The big draw is the underwater world, but the park has features on land too:

• Coral reefs and walls — vivid hard and soft corals dropping into deep water, alive with reef fish.
• Marine life — clouds of colourful fish, with the chance of larger visitors out in the blue.
• Famous dive sites — renowned reefs and drop-offs that experienced divers travel far to see.
• On land — desert landscapes, mangroves and viewpoints, plus a notable natural saltwater feature within the park.

Tip: never touch or stand on the coral, and do not feed the fish. Reef-safe sunscreen, careful fin control and keeping your distance from marine life all help protect a reserve that exists precisely to keep this environment intact.

Tickets, access and how to visit

Entry to the park involves a fee, and most visitors come on an organised boat trip or diving excursion from Sharm el-Sheikh, which handles transport, permits and equipment. Snorkellers and divers of different levels can both enjoy the park, but you should match the activity to your experience and follow your guide’s briefing. Rather than quote prices that change, book through a licensed operator and confirm current entry rules and rates locally. Bring your passport, as ID can be required at checkpoints.

Getting there and how long to stay

The park lies a short distance from Sharm el-Sheikh by road or boat, making it one of the easiest world-class dive sites to reach. Most trips are full or half-day outings built around two or three reef stops.

Practicality	What to know
Location	Southern tip of Sinai
Access	Boat or road trip from Sharm el-Sheikh
Time needed	Half or full day
Best for	Diving and snorkelling

A half-day trip suits casual snorkellers, while divers usually opt for a full day to fit in multiple sites. Either way, plan it as a dedicated outing rather than a quick stop.

Best time to visit and practical tips

The Red Sea is warm and diveable year-round, with comfortable air temperatures from autumn to spring and hotter summers; water visibility is generally excellent. Bring sun protection, plenty of water and a hat for time on the boat, and a light layer for the breeze at sea. Always dive within your training and certification, and listen to your guide.

For help adding Ras Muhammad to a Red Sea itinerary alongside Sharm el-Sheikh’s other reefs, see our plan your trip page. Approached with care for the reef, a day here delivers some of the most rewarding underwater scenery anywhere in the world — and leaves it just as vivid for the next visitor.