Ras Muhammad National Park – Egypt’s Underwater Paradise

Ras Muhammad National Park (Arabic: رأس محمد) is one of Egypt’s most breathtaking natural treasures, located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Just 12 km from Sharm El Sheikh, the park lies between the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba, making it a true meeting point of land and sea. Today, it stands as a world-class destination for diving, snorkeling, and eco-tourism in the Red Sea.

A Park with History and Meaning

The name Ras Muhammad translates to “Cape of Muhammad.” Locals say the cliff outline resembles the profile of a bearded man, while in ancient times the area was known as Poseidion — believed to host a shrine to Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.
In 1983, Ras Muhammad was declared Egypt’s first protected marine reserve. This step was vital to safeguard the fragile coral reefs and marine life from destructive fishing methods and uncontrolled coastal development. Today, the park is a model of marine conservation and eco-tourism.

Unique Geography and Natural Wonders

Covering 480 km² of land and sea, the park includes rugged mountains, sand dunes, wadis, and mangrove forests. A striking feature is its earthquake-formed cracks in the ground, some filled with deep pools of water reaching over 14 meters.
The park is also a vital stopover for migratory birds, adding to its ecological importance.

A Diver’s and Snorkeler’s Dream

Ras Muhammad is globally famous for its coral reefs, with over 220 coral species — including 125 types of soft coral. The reefs stretch close to shore and drop dramatically into the deep blue, creating stunning underwater walls.
Top dive and snorkel sites include:
Shark Reef & Yolanda Reef – legendary dive sites bursting with colorful marine life.
Shark Observatory – perfect for drift diving.
Marsa Ghozlani & Marsa Bareika – sheltered bays great for snorkeling and beginner divers.

The SS Thistlegorm Wreck – a world-renowned dive site near Ras Muhammad.
The park is home to more than 1,000 species of fish, sea turtles, rays, dolphins, and even occasional sharks, making it a living aquarium beneath the waves.

Climate – When to Visit

Ras Muhammad enjoys a desert climate with hot summers (up to 40°C) and mild winters averaging 23°C during the day. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when conditions are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and exploring.

Why Visit Ras Muhammad?

One of the world’s richest coral reef ecosystems.
Easy access from Sharm El Sheikh.
Unique mix of marine life, desert landscapes, and history.
A bucket-list destination for divers and eco-travelers.

Ras Muhammad National Park is more than just a dive spot — it’s where the desert meets the sea, history meets nature, and every visitor leaves with memories of Egypt’s natural beauty at its best.