Diving in El Gouna

Explore 56 dive sites in El Gouna, Egypt. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in El Gouna

The warmest water temperatures in El Gouna occur in August, averaging 28.3°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 20.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 20.3°C
  • February: 20.2°C
  • March: 20.8°C
  • April: 22.1°C
  • May: 24.5°C
  • June: 25.8°C
  • July: 27.0°C
  • August: 28.3°C
  • September: 27.3°C
  • October: 26.1°C
  • November: 24.6°C
  • December: 22.2°C

Marine Life in El Gouna

Home to 64 recorded species including 46 reef fish, 7 whales & dolphins, 4 seagrass & algae, 3 sea cucumbers, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 sharks & rays.

Dive Site Difficulty in El Gouna

El Gouna has 8 beginner, 5 intermediate dive sites - suitable for divers of all levels.

Recommended Packing List for El Gouna

Based on average water temperature of 24.1°C, currents 19 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 24°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Marine Protected Areas in El Gouna

  • محمية رأس محمد - National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • محمية نبق - Multiple Use Management Area (IUCN Category VI)
  • محمية أبو جالوم - Multiple Use Management Area (IUCN Category VI)
  • شعاب البحر الأحمر - Developing Resources Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Reported)

Getting to El Gouna - Nearest Airports

  • Hurghada International Airport (HRG), Hurghada - 82 km away, approx 104 min travel time
  • Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH), Sharm El Sheikh - 83 km away, approx 106 min travel time
  • Neom Bay Airport (NUM), Sharma - 171 km away, approx 202 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving conditions in El Gouna, including water temperature and visibility?
El Gouna offers excellent diving conditions, particularly regarding water temperature during peak months. Divers can expect comfortable water temperatures ranging from 27.02°C in July to 28.25°C in August, making for pleasant dives. While specific visibility data is not provided, the Red Sea is generally renowned for its clear waters. For more details on optimal conditions, visit our when to dive guide for El Gouna.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to encounter in El Gouna, particularly any highlights like dolphins or sharks?
Divers in El Gouna can look forward to exciting marine life encounters. A highlight is the famous Sha'ab el-Erg, known as a 'dolphin house,' where you can often spot these intelligent creatures. For those seeking bigger thrills, Carless Reef offers opportunities for shark encounters. Explore more about the region's diverse marine life.
Which are considered the best dive sites in El Gouna for different interests, such as wrecks or vibrant reefs?
El Gouna boasts a fantastic array of dive sites catering to various interests. For wreck enthusiasts, the Abu Nuhas wreck corridor is a must-visit, featuring famous sites like the beginner-friendly Kimon M and the intermediate Rosalie Moller. Reef lovers will appreciate the excellent north reef systems, with popular spots including Shaab el Erg and Siyoul Lagoon.
Is El Gouna suitable for beginner divers, and are there also challenging dive sites for more experienced or technical divers?
Absolutely, El Gouna is highly suitable for beginner divers, offering numerous accessible sites like Siyoul Lagoon and the Kimon M wreck. For more experienced divers, there are plenty of challenging intermediate sites, including the renowned Rosalie Moller wreck and the wall dive at Shabha, ensuring diverse experiences for all skill levels.
How do travelers typically get to El Gouna and access its dive sites?
While specific travel routes to El Gouna are not detailed in the provided data, it is known as an upscale Red Sea resort, implying established travel infrastructure. Access to its 57 dive sites is typically facilitated by the four local dive centers, which organize boat trips to the various reefs and wrecks. Travelers usually arrange their diving excursions directly with these operators.
What are the seasonal variations for diving in El Gouna, and when is the best time of year to visit for optimal conditions?
For optimal diving conditions in El Gouna, the best time to visit is during the months of July, August, and September. During this period, the water temperatures are at their warmest, averaging between 27.02°C and 28.25°C. This makes for a very comfortable and enjoyable diving experience. For more seasonal insights, check our when to dive guide.
Are there specific wetsuit recommendations for diving in El Gouna during different seasons?
The provided data does not include specific wetsuit recommendations for diving in El Gouna during different seasons. However, with best water temperatures ranging from 27.02°C to 28.25°C in peak months, a thinner wetsuit or shorty would likely be comfortable. For general guidance on dive gear, please refer to our equipment section.
What are the typical current conditions like at El Gouna's dive sites?
Information regarding the typical current conditions at El Gouna's dive sites is not provided in the available data. Divers should consult with local dive centers upon arrival for the most up-to-date and site-specific current forecasts. This ensures a safe and enjoyable diving experience tailored to the day's conditions.