Explore Cairo
When travellers think about Cairo, diving is not the first, or fifth thing they would think about going there for, but there are definitely options. Cairo is the large, bustling capital city of Egypt and is located in Northern Egypt, but not near the coast. It has an international airport, so visitors from all over will pass through this city. Should they be based in Cairo but would like to either do their diving course or go diving for a day or two, there are dive centres here which organise these courses and trips. It can also be a beginning point for liveaboards. Divers based in Cairo have the opportunity to dive in the surrounding areas including Alexandria, Ain Shokna and down south in Sharm El Sheikh and its surroundings.
Top Cairo Dive Sites
1. Cleopatra’s Underwater Palace - Alexandria
This iconic dive site features submerged ruins, including sphinxes and pillars, from what is believed to be Cleopatra’s palace. Marine life is sparse but includes sea urchins and small fish. It is an easy scuba dive and ideal for history enthusiasts. The site contains around 7,000 artifacts and is protected for its archaeological significance.
2. Ain Shukhan – Gulf of Suez (near Ain Sokhna)
Ain Shukhan is the closest coastal dive spot to Cairo, popular for open water courses and training dives. The waters are calm and shallow, with occasional reef fish and rays. Diving is easy, suited for beginners, and both scuba and freediving are possible. The dive sites are informal but provide a relaxed introduction to the Red Sea ecosystem.
3. Abu Ramada Island – Hurghada
Known as "The Aquarium," this Red Sea dive offers colorful coral gardens and abundant marine life such as groupers, butterflyfish, and blue-spotted stingrays. The dive ranges from easy to moderate and is accessible for all levels. Scuba is primary, but freediving is possible in shallow reef areas. It lies within an ecologically rich marine zone.
4. Ras Mohammed National Park – Sharm el Sheikh
This world-renowned protected area features steep reef walls, vibrant coral, turtles, and large schools of jacks and snappers. It is best for advanced scuba divers due to occasional currents and depth variations. The park is a top ecological site and supports both hard and soft coral communities.
5. SS Thistlegorm Wreck – Red Sea (via Sharm or Hurghada)
One of the most famous wreck dives globally, this WWII cargo ship rests at 30m and is home to batfish, barracuda, and scorpionfish. The dive is technical and suited for advanced scuba divers only. The preserved cargo, including motorcycles and rifles, makes it a dramatic underwater museum.