Safari Diving in Hurghada: Explore the Red Sea’s Hidden Wonders

 

 

 Hurghada, one of Egypt’s premier beach destinations along the Red Sea, is a haven for divers. Known for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, Hurghada offers some of the best safari diving experiences in the world. Safari diving in Hurghada allows divers to explore remote dive sites, pristine reefs, and underwater ecosystems that would otherwise be difficult to access from shore-based operations.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving adventure, a safari diving trip in Hurghada is the perfect choice. Here’s why Hurghada is a prime destination for liveaboard diving and what you can expect from a safari diving experience.

What is Safari Diving in Hurghada?

 Safari diving in Hurghada refers to diving from a liveaboard boat, which takes divers to various dive sites over several days. Unlike day trips that depart from the mainland, liveaboard diving allows you to stay on the boat, explore different dive locations, and enjoy multiple dives in some of the most pristine and untouched areas of the Red Sea.

Liveaboard boats are equipped with all the necessary amenities, including comfortable cabins, a diving deck, and all-inclusive services like meals, diving equipment (if needed), and experienced dive guides. This type of diving offers the advantage of visiting remote dive sites that are far from the typical shore-based diving locations, giving you a truly unique and personalized experience.

Why Choose Safari Diving in Hurghada?

1. Access to Unspoiled Dive Sites

 One of the primary reasons to choose safari diving in Hurghada is the opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path dive sites. Many of Hurghada’s top dive spots, such as the Brother Islands, Elphinstone Reef, and Shaab Abu Nuhas, are located far from shore and can only be reached via liveaboard. These remote sites are often less crowded, providing divers with the chance to experience some of the Red Sea’s most pristine underwater ecosystems.

2. Rich Marine Life

 The Red Sea is home to a vast variety of marine life, and safari diving allows you to encounter species you might not see on regular day dives. Expect to see everything from colorful coral gardens to large pelagic species like hammerhead sharks, mantas, whale sharks, and dolphins. The region is also famous for its vibrant reef fish, including Napoleon wrasse, clownfish, and parrotfish. With more than 1,000 species of fish and hundreds of species of corals, Hurghada offers one of the richest and most diverse underwater environments in the world.

3. Multiple Dives Per Day

 When diving from a liveaboard, you typically get to dive multiple times a day, often including night dives. This allows you to explore the underwater world more deeply and for longer periods, giving you the chance to discover new dive sites, encounter different marine species, and enjoy the tranquility of night diving, when nocturnal marine creatures come to life.

4. Comfort and Convenience

 Safari diving in Hurghada offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Modern liveaboard boats are equipped with comfortable cabins, sundecks, delicious meals, and relaxation areas. After a day of diving, you can unwind, enjoy the scenery, and socialize with fellow divers. Many boats also offer onboard entertainment, such as films, or even underwater photography courses, so you can capture the beauty of the Red Sea.

 

Top Dive Sites for Safari Diving in Hurghada

 Hurghada is home to some of the most famous dive sites in Egypt, and safari diving gives you access to remote locations that you wouldn’t typically visit on a standard day dive. Here are some of the top safari diving destinations from Hurghada:

1. Brother Islands

 The Brother Islands, located about 60 miles from Hurghada, are among the most famous dive sites in Egypt. The two islands, Big Brother and Little Brother, are renowned for their dramatic drop-offs, beautiful coral gardens, and large schools of fish. Divers often encounter oceanic whitetip sharks, hammerhead sharks, and even whale sharks. The islands also feature historic shipwrecks, including the famous Aida and Numidia wrecks, making it a perfect destination for wreck diving enthusiasts.

2. Elphinstone Reef

Elphinstone Reef is one of Hurghada’s most iconic dive sites. This reef, known for its steep walls and pelagic species, is perfect for divers looking for the thrill of encountering big fish like sharks, mantas, and tunas. Elphinstone is a popular location for advanced divers due to the current and depth of the dives, but it’s worth the challenge for the opportunity to see rare marine species and pristine coral formations.

3. Shaab Abu Nuhas

Shaab Abu Nuhas, also known as the “Shipwreck Reef,” is famous for its wreck dives. The site is home to several well-preserved shipwrecks, including the Carnatic, Ghiannis D, and Labadie. These wrecks attract an abundance of marine life, and divers can explore the remains of the ships while enjoying the vibrant coral reefs and the fish that call these wrecks home.

4. St. John’s Reef

Located in the southern part of the Red Sea, St. John’s Reef is a secluded and pristine location that requires a liveaboard trip to reach. The reef features spectacular coral gardens, caves, and underwater tunnels teeming with life. Divers can encounter turtles, sharks, and schools of fish, making it a must-visit site for those looking to dive in an unspoiled underwater paradise.

What to Expect on a Safari Diving Trip in Hurghada

A typical safari diving trip in Hurghada lasts anywhere from 3 to 7 days, depending on the itinerary and dive sites you choose. Here’s what you can expect on a safari diving trip:

  • Multiple daily dives: Usually two to three dives per day, with the option of night dives.
  • Liveaboard boat: Comfortable accommodations with private or shared cabins, meals, and onboard amenities.
  • Experienced dive guides: Professional guides who know the best dive spots and ensure your safety.
  • All-inclusive services: Meals, snacks, and drinks are usually provided on board, along with dive equipment if required.
  • Relaxation: After dives, unwind on the sun deck, enjoy the views, or socialize with fellow divers.


    Preparing for Safari Diving in Hurghada

    To make the most of your safari diving trip, consider the following:

    • Certification: Ensure you have the appropriate diving certification for the dive sites you will be visiting. Most safari dives require an Advanced Open Water certification due to deeper dives and currents.
    • Physical Fitness: Safari diving can be physically demanding, so it’s important to be in good health and comfortable with extended diving days.
    • Equipment: Bring your dive gear (unless it’s provided), as well as comfortable clothing for relaxation between dives.
    • Camera: Don’t forget an underwater camera to capture the incredible marine life and underwater landscapes.

      Conclusion

      Safari diving in Hurghada offers the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. With access to remote dive sites, abundant marine life, and a comfortable liveaboard experience, it’s the ideal choice for divers looking to discover the true beauty of the Red Sea. Whether you’re diving with sharks, exploring vibrant coral gardens, or discovering shipwrecks, Hurghada’s safari diving opportunities are sure to create memories that last a lifetime.