The Unique Geography of Ras Mohammed

Egypt’s Red Sea is an exquisite location full of wonders. One of which is Ras Mohammed park, spanning over 480 square kilometers. Situated roughly 20 kilometers south of Sharm El Sheikh, the park’s advantageous land-and-sea location fosters a variety of marine environments that are home to a wide variety of marine life.

The park’s landscape is dominated by limestone cliffs, dunes, and fossilized coral reefs. The contrast between the arid desert and the thriving coral reefs just meters away from the shore is nothing short of spectacular.

The Magic Beneath the Surface

Ras Mohammed is world-famous for its coral reefs, home to over 220 species of coral, including both hard and soft varieties. These reefs are bustling underwater metropolises, supporting over 1,000 species of fish, 40 species of starfish, 25 species of sea urchins, and countless species of mollusks and crustaceans.

Some of the park’s most iconic marine residents include:

• Giant moray eels
• Clownfish nestled among anemones
• Napoleon wrasse
• Colorful parrotfish
• Spinner dolphins and occasional sightings of whale sharks

The park is also a migration route for large pelagic species, including schools of barracudas, jacks, and even the occasional manta ray.

Shark and Yolanda Reef

Arguably the most famous dive site in Ras Mohammed, Shark and Yolanda Reef offers an exhilarating underwater experience. The site has steep drop-offs over 800 meters deep and strong currents that draw large pelagic fish.

• Shark Reef: Boasts stunning coral walls teeming with life, from swarming schools of snappers and barracudas to the occasional reef shark patrolling the depths.
• Yolanda Reef: Now covered in coral and inhabited by marine life, this location is home to an unsettling underwater cargo graveyard—relics of the Yolanda shipwreck, including bathtubs, toilets, and cargo.

Jackfish Alley

For adrenaline-pumping drift dives, Jackfish Alley is a top choice. With fast currents and frequent pelagic sightings, it offers coral gardens, deep drop-offs, and underwater caves for guided exploration.

Expect encounters with:

• Jackfish (trevallies) hunting in packs
• Blue-spotted stingrays gliding along sandy patches
• Eagle rays and the occasional reef shark

Ras Ghozlani

Less crowded but equally mesmerizing, Ras Ghozlani is perfect for divers seeking pristine coral formations. The site is ideal for macro photography, with countless nudibranchs, pipefish, and shrimp hiding among the corals.

The Earthquake Crack

One of Ras Mohammed’s most fascinating geological features is the Earthquake Crack, a deep fissure in the desert floor caused by seismic activity. 

Visitors can explore the crack’s edge, marveling at its depth and how it slices through the flat desert, a vivid reminder of the Earth’s ongoing changes.

The Mangrove Channel

Nestled along the shoreline, the Mangrove Channel is an unexpected oasis in the harsh desert. These salt-tolerant trees thrive in shallow waters, providing a crucial habitat for juvenile fish, crabs, and even migratory bird species. It’s a peaceful spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers alike.

The Salt Lake

The Salt Lake, also known as the Magic Lake, is a shimmering body of water with incredibly high salinity levels. Its blue hues contrast sharply with the surrounding golden sands, creating a surreal landscape. Visitors often swim in its buoyant waters, experiencing a sensation similar to floating in the Dead Sea.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between March and November, when water temperatures are ideal for diving and snorkeling. The summer months (June–August) can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, while winter (December–February) offers cooler, more comfortable weather.

What to Pack

• Snorkeling or diving gear (if you prefer your own)
• Reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
• Plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Light, breathable clothing for desert conditions
• Binoculars for birdwatching

Whether you’re diving into the abyss at Shark Reef, floating effortlessly in the Magic Lake, or marveling at the desert’s geological wonders, Ras Mohammed delivers experiences that stay with you forever. 

Ready to explore? Contact Galaxia Tours now!