Torfi, Wadi Gamal - Marsa Alam

Torfi, in the Wadi Gamal Protectorate, isn't always on the standard Marsa Alam itinerary, and that's precisely why we love it. This is a site where you slow down, properly look, and let the reef reveal its nuances. Our favourite time to dive here is early morning, when the light plays beautifully through the water and the reef feels quieter, more intimate. The topography itself is intriguing; a series of coral bommies and small pinnacles rise from a sandy bottom, creating perfect little hideouts. We’ve spent whole dives just combing the sandy patches for the smaller stuff – the smooth mouthed topshells and rough ridged tellins that blend in so perfectly. Keep an eye out in the seagrass beds for elusive creatures; we’ve had luck spotting the Snowball Chama and the shy Lamellose Wentletrap here. The Hairy Scorpionfish are masters of disguise amongst the corals, often taking a moment to actually discern them from their surroundings. While whale sharks and dolphins are recorded here, those are lucky encounters. We come to Torfi for the macro, for the satisfaction of finding that delicate Feathered Cone, or the surprisingly vibrant Carnelian Cowry tucked away. This is a dive for the patient observer, for those who appreciate the smaller details over the big pelagic theatre. It’s a photographer’s dream if you’re into nudibranchs and crustaceans, offering a more reflective, less rushed experience than some of the region’s busier sites.

Location
Marsa Alam, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
24.674982, 35.145790
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
10-25m

Marine Protected Area: Tourism Development Area I

Best Time to Dive in Marsa Alam

The warmest water temperatures in Marsa Alam occur in August, averaging 31.1°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 22.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.6°C
  • February: 22.7°C
  • March: 22.9°C
  • April: 23.8°C
  • May: 26.0°C
  • June: 28.1°C
  • July: 29.9°C
  • August: 31.1°C
  • September: 30.4°C
  • October: 28.8°C
  • November: 27.1°C
  • December: 25.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Marsa Alam

Nearest Dive Centres to Torfi, Wadi Gamal

Marine Life in Marsa Alam

Home to 39 recorded species including 10 seagrass & algae, 8 whales & dolphins, 8 reef fish, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 sharks & rays, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Torfi, Wadi Gamal

Based on average water temperature of 26.7°C, currents 3 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°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