Ras Muhammad National Park

رأس محمد

Egypt's first and most spectacular marine national park, protecting exceptional coral gardens, diverse fish species, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Divers and snorkelers consider it one of the world's best underwater destinations.

Things to do

• Coral Garden Snorkeling — Explore shallow reef systems teeming with colorful hard and soft corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters.
• The Shark Observatory Dive — Descend to this famous deep-water site where reef sharks, groupers, and large pelagic fish are frequently spotted around dramatic underwater drop-offs.
• Beacon Rock Snorkeling — Wade or boat to this shallow pinnacle known for dense schools of jacks, barracudas, and pristine coral formations.
• Cliff-Top Hiking — Walk the dramatic sandstone and limestone cliffs overlooking the Red Sea with panoramic views of the park and mainland.
• Night Diving — Experience nocturnal marine life including octopuses, shrimp, and nocturnal fish species that emerge after sunset on the reef.
• Jackfish School Watching — Observe massive synchronized schools of chevron-striped jacks that create hypnotic spinning formations around reef pinnacles.
• Shallow Bay Exploration — Snorkel in the protected bays near park headquarters where beginners can safely see abundant fish, rays, and accessible coral heads.

Food to try

• Grilled Red Sea Fish — Freshly caught fish such as grouper or red snapper seasoned with lemon, garlic, and spices, grilled over charcoal at park restaurants.
• Mezze Platter — Traditional selection of hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and fresh pita bread served as a starter or light meal at beachside dining.
• Koshari — Egyptian street-food classic combining rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.
• Seafood Kebab — Shrimp or calamari marinated in herbs and grilled on skewers, reflecting the park's proximity to Red Sea fishing communities.
• Fresh Fruit Juice — Seasonal drinks made from locally-grown mango, guava, or hibiscus flowers, commonly served fresh at park facilities and nearby towns.

Local customs & good to know

• Park Entry Permit Required — All visitors must obtain a permit at the park entrance gate; fees apply and are non-negotiable, so plan arrival time accordingly.
• Guide Recommendations — While not mandatory, hiring a certified dive or snorkel guide significantly enhances safety, wildlife spotting, and cultural insight into marine conservation efforts.
• Environmental Respect — The park is a protected reserve; visitors must never touch coral, feed fish, remove shells, or disturb wildlife, as this is both illegal and harmful to the ecosystem.
• Modest Dress on Land — While swimwear is appropriate at the beach, cover shoulders and knees when visiting park facilities or interacting with local staff out of cultural respect.