Dahab, Egypt is renowned for its stunning dive spots, offering a diverse aquatic environment with vibrant coral reefs, underwater canyons, and plenty of marine life. Here are some of the best dive spots in Dahab:
1. Blue Hole: Perhaps the most famous dive site in Dahab, the Blue Hole is a natural underwater sinkhole with a maximum depth of over 100 meters. It’s popular for deep and technical diving but can also be enjoyed at recreational depths.
2. Canyon: This site features a dramatic underwater canyon starting at about 20 meters, leading to depths of over 50 meters. The canyon narrows as you descend, providing an exhilarating experience for experienced divers.
3. Eel Garden: Named for the abundance of garden eels that emerge from the sandy seabed, this site offers a unique dive experience. The sloping reef is also home to vibrant coral formations teeming with fish.
4. Lighthouse Reef: Located close to the town center, this site is great for beginners and night dives. It features a shallow reef with a myriad of marine life, including octopuses, lionfish, and various reef fish.
5. Islands: This dive site consists of a labyrinth of coral formations and is located towards the southern end of Dahab. The maze-like structure of the reefs creates a captivating underwater landscape, perfect for photographers and experienced divers alike. You’ll encounter schools of fish, soft corals, and interesting topography.
6. Coral Garden: Aptly named, Coral Garden features a plethora of soft and hard corals teeming with marine life. It’s an easy and accessible dive site, which makes it great for divers of all skill levels.
7. The Bells: This dive site is located just north of the Blue Hole and starts with a vertical drop through a narrow passage known as “The Bells.” Divers then swim along a sheer wall before ending the dive in the Blue Hole. This site offers dramatic scenery and is suitable for those comfortable with deep diving.
8. Abu Talha: Also known as Three Pools, this dive spot features a series of three shallow pools connected by coral channels. It’s an excellent site for snorkeling and introductory dives, offering clear waters and a variety of marine life.
9. Umm Sid: Known for its impressive coral pinnacles and schools of fish, Umm Sid is a great site for drift diving. The site often has strong currents, so it’s best suited for more experienced divers.
10. Ras Abu Galum: This location is part of a protected area and is a bit off the beaten path, requiring a camel ride or boat trip to reach. The diving here is pristine, with untouched coral reefs and a wide variety of marine species.
11. Gabr El Bint: Accessible by boat, Gabr El Bint is a remote dive site offering beautiful coral walls and gardens teeming with life. It’s a favorite for those looking to explore less-visited regions of Dahab’s underwater world.
These dive spots offer a range of experiences, catering to different skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Dahab has something to offer everyone. Happy diving!