Sharm el Sheikh
Duration
6 HoursAvailable days:
DailyAdults
15 $Children
10 $Pickup Time
07:30
Ras Mohammed National Park is one of Egypt’s greatest natural treasures and a must-visit destination for travelers. It holds special significance for several reasons. Established in 1983, it became Egypt’s first national park. Its unique location lies between the Gulf of Suez to the west and the Gulf of Aqaba to the east, creating an extraordinary variety of landscapes and marine ecosystems. The southern coastline of the reserve is consistently ranked among the top 10 snorkeling and diving sites in the world.
During the excursion, guests can explore iconic natural attractions such as the Gates of Allah, wild mangrove forests with their unique wildlife, and the famous Lake of Desires, known for its striking beauty and exceptionally high salinity. The park also features untouched coral reefs and dramatic earth faults formed by ancient earthquakes, reaching up to 6 meters wide and 10 meters deep.
The name “Ras Mohammed” translates from Arabic as “Head of Mohammed.” According to local tradition, when viewed from above, the shape of the peninsula resembles the outline of the Prophet Mohammed’s head, which is how the reserve received its name.
Ras Mohammed is home to rich and diverse wildlife. On land, visitors may encounter gazelles, foxes, reptiles, and white storks, many of which thrive thanks to the mangrove trees that provide ideal nesting areas for birds. Beneath the surface, the marine world is equally impressive, with over 1,000 species of fish and up to 150 species of coral. Some coral formations rising above sea level are believed to be up to 2 billion years old, making them among the oldest living structures on Earth.
Thanks to a well-designed excursion program, guests of all ages — from children to seniors — can comfortably visit the reserve, making this trip ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers alike. Ras Mohammed National Park offers a rare opportunity to experience Egypt’s untouched natural beauty both above and below the water.
At approximately 07:30 in the morning (the exact pick-up time will be confirmed after booking), our guide will pick you up by transfer near the gate of your hotel. The drive to Ras Mohammed National Park takes about 20–40 minutes, depending on your hotel’s location.
Group size may vary depending on the day. Usually, guests travel by an air-conditioned van with up to 14 seats, but the exact number of participants depends on availability and bookings for the selected date.
On the way, there will be a stop at a fully equipped diving center, where you can rent snorkeling equipment if needed (optional, for an additional fee), including masks, life jackets, fins, and thermal suits. As swimming takes place in a natural, wild area, having proper snorkeling equipment is recommended.
Rental prices can be discussed directly with the guide and usually cost around $4–5 per item. Please feel free to ask the guide for any assistance or advice.
The total distance to Ras Mohammed National Park is approximately 12 km, with an average travel time of 30–40 minutes.
- Snorkeling Stop
After entering Ras Mohammed National Park, the first stop will be snorkeling (swimming) at one of the most famous sites among divers, known for its exceptionally beautiful coral reef. This stop lasts up to 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the underwater world and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. We recommend wearing your swimwear in advance, as there are no changing rooms available during the trip.
Next, we will visit the Gate of Allah, a monumental stone structure erected after the end of the Six-Day Arab–Israeli War, when Egypt regained the Sinai Peninsula, including the Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve. The monument symbolizes peace: when viewed from the Egyptian side, the word “Allah” can be read in Arabic, while from the opposite side, it appears written in Hebrew.
- Mangrove Trees Stop
After the Gate of Allah, we continue to the mangrove groves (please note: mangroves, not mango trees). Mangroves grow in tidal coastal zones protected by coral reefs and are uniquely adapted to saltwater, tidal changes, and oxygen-poor soil. An interesting feature is their ability to desalinate water, causing salt to accumulate in their roots, trunks, and leaves—salt crystals are often visible on fallen leaves.
Important notice: To protect nature, it is strictly forbidden to touch or step on mangroves, as this can damage or kill the trees. Thank you for helping us preserve this unique ecosystem.
- Geological Faults
After the mangroves, the guide will show you the natural geological faults formed by a powerful earthquake that occurred millions of years ago. Scientists estimate the earthquake exceeded 7 on the Richter scale, creating cracks up to 10 meters deep. These faults are now filled with seawater, which became isolated from the sea after the earthquake.
- Lake of Wishes
One of the most memorable stops is the famous Lake of Wishes. This highly saline lake is similar in composition to the Dead Sea and is believed to have healing properties, such as helping with skin conditions and minor wounds. Even on the hottest days, the lake remains cooler than the sea due to underground salty springs. According to legend, if you immerse yourself three times and make a wish, it may come true. Nearby, you can also see a rock formation resembling either a lion’s head or a dragon’s head, known as the guardian of the lake.
- Return to the Hotel
After a rich and enjoyable day, we begin the return journey to your hotel. The approximate arrival time is around 14:30.
The program is carefully designed to ensure you enjoy the excursion to the fullest without excessive fatigue.
**Please note that the order of the program may be changed, as it is decided by the guide on site.
Dear guests, please remember to check the weather forecast before the trip, as conditions may affect the program.
Group size may vary depending on the day. Usually, guests travel by an air-conditioned van with up to 14 seats, but the exact number of participants depends on availability and bookings for the selected date.
We recommend wearing your swimwear in advance, as there are no changing rooms available during the trip.
Official Park Entry & Regulations: Ras Mohammed National Park is a protected area, and all visitors must follow local conservation rules. The park is administered under Egyptian environmental regulations to preserve its unique ecosystems.
What to Expect at Snorkeling Sites: Snorkeling spots in Ras Mohammed are wild and natural — there are no commercial docks or artificial platforms. You will enter the sea directly from the shoreline or from small floating pontoons arranged by the guide.
Marine Life & Corals: The marine environment here is one of the richest in the world. Expect to see colorful coral gardens, vibrant schools of tropical fish, parrotfish, lionfish, and sometimes rays or small reef sharks resting near coral structures. The visibility is usually excellent — often between 15–30 meters.
Safety & Supervision: A professional guide accompanies every group and provides safety briefings before snorkeling. It is recommended that weak swimmers or non-swimmers wear a life jacket and always stay close to the guide.
Weather & Sea Conditions: Although Ras Mohammed is beautiful year-round, sea and weather conditions may affect snorkeling visibility and the duration of the stops. In winter months (December to March), wind and waves are more common, and the itinerary may be adjusted for safety.
What to Wear: Comfortable beachwear, UV-protective shirts, water shoes or reef shoes (protect your feet on rocky shores), and a hat are recommended.
Photography Services: Many tours offer optional underwater photos and videos, taken by professional photographers — available for purchase after the snorkeling stops.
Lunch & Refreshments: You can also bring your own water and snacks.
Timing Flexibility: Arrival times at snorkeling spots, monuments, and natural landmarks (like the Gate of Allah or the Lake of Wishes) may vary slightly depending on group dynamics, weather, and sea traffic.
Eco-friendly Practices: Guests are encouraged not to touch or stand on corals, to avoid feeding fish, and to avoid using sunscreen with harmful ingredients (reef-safe sunscreen is recommended).
Comfort Facilities: Ras Mohammed is a wilderness area; there are no large restrooms or service facilities at all stops. Please plan accordingly.
Family Friendly: This trip is suitable for all ages, but children under a certain age (often under 6) should be accompanied closely by adults, especially during water activities.
Please be informed that photographers present during excursions work as independent representatives of their own photo studios. They are not part of our online service or the excursion organizing team. All arrangements related to photography services, pricing, and payment are discussed directly between you and the photographer on site.
We strongly recommend approaching advance payments with caution, verifying the terms of service, and obtaining the photographer’s contact details before making any payments to ensure further communication if needed.
If you are not interested in photography services, we kindly advise informing the photographer in advance to avoid any misunderstandings or unwanted insistence.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off by air-conditioned bus
Transfer to and from Ras Mohammed National Park
Professional guide service during the excursion
Entrance ticket to Ras Mohammed National Park
Snorkeling stop at a famous coral reef (swimming time up to 1.5 hours)
Visits to key natural attractions:
Gate of Allah
Mangrove groves
Geological faults
Lake of Wishes
Free time for swimming, snorkeling, and photos
Snorkeling equipment rental (masks, fins, life jackets, thermal suits)
Photos and videos taken by a professional photographer
Personal expenses
Tips (optional)
A photo or copy of the first page of your passport and you hotel voucher
Swimwear
Towel
Comfortable clothing and shoes (possible special sea shoes)
Sunscreen and a hat
Drinking water
Snorkeling equipment (if you have your own)
Cash for equipment rental and personal expenses
Ras Mohammed National Park is Egypt’s first national park, famous for its unique landscapes, mangroves, geological faults, salt lakes, and some of the best coral reefs in the Red Sea.
Yes, the excursion is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. Children must be accompanied by adults, especially during swimming and snorkeling.
Swimming skills are recommended for snorkeling, but non-swimmers can still enjoy the trip by wearing a life jacket or relaxing on the beach during swimming stops.
No, snorkeling equipment is not included. You can rent masks, fins, life jackets, and thermal suits at the diving center stop, or bring your own equipment.
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, including transfer time. You will return to your hotel around 14:30, depending on traffic and group pace.
Yes. Sea and weather conditions may affect snorkeling stops or the order of the program. In case of unfavorable weather, the itinerary may be adjusted for safety reasons.
You may see colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, parrotfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes rays or other reef inhabitants.
Ras Mohammed is a protected natural area with limited facilities. Toilets and shops are not available at all stops, so please plan accordingly.
No, food and drinks are not included. We recommend bringing drinking water and light snacks with you.
Yes, photography and video recording are allowed. Please be careful not to damage corals or disturb wildlife while taking photos.
Yes, swimming in the Lake of Wishes is allowed. The water is very salty and cooler than the sea. Guests with sensitive skin should rinse with fresh water afterward.
Yes. It is strictly forbidden to touch corals, mangroves, or wildlife, or to remove anything from the park. These rules help protect the natural environment.
We recommend swimwear under comfortable clothes, water shoes or reef shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear.
Payment is made to the guide during the morning hotel pick-up.
Group size may vary depending on the day. Usually, guests travel by an air-conditioned van with up to 14 seats, but the exact number of participants depends on availability and bookings for the selected date.
We recommend wearing your swimwear in advance, as there are no changing rooms or toilets available during the trip.
Please be informed that photographers present during excursions work as independent representatives of their own photo studios. They are not part of our online service or the excursion organizing team. All arrangements related to photography services, pricing, and payment are discussed directly between you and the photographer on site. We strongly recommend approaching advance payments with caution, verifying the terms of service, and obtaining the photographer’s contact details before making any payments to ensure further communication if needed. If you are not interested in photography services, we kindly advise informing the photographer in advance to avoid any misunderstandings or unwanted insistence.
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