Ras Mohamed National Park | Sinai Egypt

Within the divine lands of Sinai lies a piece of paradise, Ras Mohammed National Park, which contains the most magical natural reflection of beauty and wonder. It is the crown jewel of the Red Sea, showcasing the most amazing marine creatures and coral reefs within a harmonious ecosystem full of miracles that make any water activity in it truly unique and worth remembering forever. We will discover all details about Ras Mohammed National Park as one of the most magical national parks in Egypt.

Overview of Ras Mohammed National Park

Location & Geography

Ras Mohammed National Park is situated at the meeting point that joins the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba, in the far south of the Sinai Peninsula, about 20 km south of Sharm El Sheikh. The park features iconic diving sites, including the Shark Zone and Yolanda Reef, where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet a rich and diverse marine life. 

Deciding on a tour to Ras Mohammed Park means that you will see a magical world of vibrant coral reefs and stunning underwater landscapes, so it is an ideal destination for diving and exploration enthusiasts. 

History & Significance

Ras Mohammed National Park was given this name because it appears on the map as the head of a triangle whose base consists of the mountain ranges of South Sinai, while others say that it appears, in its water and land parts, as the head of a man with a huge beard, so it was called Ras Muhammad.

The first nature reserve in Egypt

Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve was the first nature reserve established in Egypt. It was officially declared a nature reserve in 1983, covering an area of 97 km². It received increasing attention starting in 1989, when a comprehensive plan was drawn up for its development and expansion, reaching an area of approximately 480 km², including 135 km² of wilderness and 345 km² of coral reefs and aquatic environments.

Fossils over 75 million years old

Ras Mohammed National Park contains fossils dating back more than 75 million years.

Its significance

It is one of the most important reserves and diving sites in the world.

Being an integrated embodiment of an ecological system that includes the sea with its waters of graduated blue colors, mountains and rocks bearing witness to Egyptian nature, plants such as mangroves and shura, moderate temperatures, and fresh air, to embody for us a natural painting in a unique harmony in the world.

It includes more than 12 beaches that combine three environments in a wonderful variety of seaweed, coral reefs, and fish, especially brightly colored Picasso fish, making it a destination for divers around the world.

Climate & Best Time to Visit

Ras Mohammed National Park has a very dry climate, with only little rainfall during the winter. 

Temperatures are moderate in winter, with average daytime high temperatures around 23°C (73°F) and low temperatures around 14°C (56°F). During the summer, temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), and low temperatures are around 27°C (81°F). 

The months between August and March are ideal times to explore this heavenly natural wonder that contains some of the most magnificent landmarks that came into existence during the time of creation.

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Things to Do in Ras Mohammed

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Diving in Ras Mohammed is an ideal location for species diversity as the Gulf of Suez (west) and the Gulf of Aqaba (east) meet. The mixing of these two bodies of water has created a rich environment capable of supporting a highly developed ecosystem. Diving in Ras Mohammed has many beautiful features, including ancient underwater caves formed by earthquakes, which now provide shelter for a whole host of creatures, large and small.

Beaches, Lagoons & Magic Lake

The Ras Mohammed area is characterized by coral beaches located deep in the Ras Mohammed aquatic ocean, colorful fish, endangered sea turtles, and rare aquatic life. Coral reefs surround Ras Mohammed on all its marine sides.

Magic Lake, located in Ras Mohammed National Park, is one of the most important tourist attractions in Sharm El Sheikh. Its name comes from the fact that its water changes colors 7 times a day according to sunlight.

The lake contains a large amount of minerals, which are used as a treatment to cure rheumatic diseases for anyone who puts their sand on it for 12 hours. Until 1983, it appeared as land, not a lake, when photographed by satellite, because it contained large amounts of lead at that time.

The Bedouins call this lake "Lake of Wish," as they swim in it and then throw some stones loaded with wishes.

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Mangrove Channel & Unique Ecosystems

One of the most striking aspects of Ras Mohammed is the presence of mangroves. Ras Mohammed Mangrove Canal is one of the northernmost mangrove forests in the world. Nearby, you can see huge cracks (one of the largest is 40 meters long) on the Earth's surface, caused by ancient earthquakes. Hidden Bay Beach is also nearby.

Located in the southern part of the reserve, it is a green oasis in the middle of the desert, acting as a natural barrier against erosion and providing habitat for many marine species and birds. Mangroves are an excellent location for bird watching since many migratory species use them as temporary shelter. This contrast between the dryness of the desert and the fertility of the mangroves is one of Ras Mohammed's great attractions.

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Hiking Trails & Viewpoints

Ras Mohammed National Park's trail system is carefully designed to provide access to the park's diverse ecosystems while minimizing environmental impact and ensuring visitor safety. Each trail offers different experiences and challenges, allowing hikers to explore the park's natural wonders.

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Mangrove Trail 

The Mangrove Trail represents one of the most accessible hiking experiences in the park and features a well-maintained boardwalk that allows visitors to explore the mangrove ecosystem undisturbed. The trail's interpretive stations provide information about mangrove ecology, the importance of these ecosystems to marine biodiversity, and the conservation challenges they face due to climate change and human development.

This trail provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, especially bird watching, as mangroves serve as important stopping points for migratory species and provide year-round habitat for various resident species. Early morning and late afternoon trips often provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as many species are most active during these cold periods.

Shark Observatory Trail 

The Shark Observatory Trail leads to one of the park's most spectacular views, offering panoramic views of the Red Sea and the opportunity to observe marine life from elevated locations. The trail's name is derived from the frequent shark sightings possible from the observatory at the top of the cliff, where visitors can often observe sharks, coral reefs, and other marine life in the clear waters below. 

This moderately challenging trail crosses diverse terrain, from coastal desert to rocky outcrops, providing opportunities to observe the park's terrestrial flora and fauna. The trail's elevation provides relief from the intense heat of lower elevations while providing increasingly stunning views as hikers climb toward the observatory point.

Earthquake Crack Trail 

The Earthquake Crack Trail combines geological education with physical challenge, leading hikers through rugged terrain to one of the region's most dramatic geological features. The trail requires moderate fitness levels and proper footwear, as it crosses rocky terrain and involves some climbing on uneven surfaces.

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Wildlife & Natural Attractions

The walking trails in Ras Mohammed National Park give you a unique opportunity to see an amazing diversity of wildlife, adapted to the special environmental conditions that combine desert and sea. Thanks to the park's protection, these animals have flourished, and viewing them has become a rare experience elsewhere in the region.

Coral Reefs & Marine Life

Ras Muhammed has stunning coral reefs, rich marine life, clear waters over 30m, and is suitable for all skill levels.

More than 220 species of coral are found in the Ras Muhammad area, 125 of them soft coral. The coral reefs are located 50 to 100 m (160 to 330 ft) below the sea surface, and they have a width of 30 to 50 m (98 to 164 ft) in most places.

Ras Muhammed is known for marine life. It has different species like clownfish, turtles, and even sharks. With its breathtaking underwater scenery, Ras Mohamed is a must-visit for diving enthusiasts. 

Flora & Desert Fauna

A large number of insects and reptiles live on land, including mammals, such as the desert fox, fennec, ibex, mountain rabbit, deer, hyena, hyrax, mountain goat, as well as raptors such as the goshawk, kite, and buzzard, and the osprey also takes refuge there.

Bird Watching & Migratory Species

Bird watchers have a great time in the Ras Mohammed area, especially in the mangrove and swamp areas. Visitors will be able to experience distinctive species of birds such as egrets, ospreys, migratory birds, and more.

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Visitor Information

Entrance Fees & Opening Hours

Open Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM 

The entrance ticket is 25 Egyptian pounds per person, in addition to a 25 Egyptian pound car fee only.  Non-Egyptian visitors pay 25 or 100 Egyptian pounds per person.

How to Get There (From Sharm El Sheikh & Hurghada)

From Sharm El Sheikh

Guided tours and excursions: This is the most convenient option as it includes hotel reception. You can choose from bus tours, private truck/car tours or boat trips for snorkeling and diving. 

Taxi: You can hire a taxi to take you to the park and arrange pickup time upon your return. Negotiate the price for both directions in advance. 

Boat Trip: Many daily tours depart from Sharm El Sheikh by boat to reach the park's famous diving and snorkeling sites. 

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From Hurghada

Flying to Sharm El Sheikh: The fastest way is to fly from Hurghada to Sharm El Sheikh, then take a taxi or arrange a tour to the park. 

Ferry: Take the ferry from Hurghada to Sharm El Sheikh. This is a more economical option than flying, as flights take about 2.5 hours. 

Long bus/taxi journey: You can also travel overland to Sharm El Sheikh via a very long bus or taxi journey. Once you arrive in Sharm, you can then head to Ras Mohammed. 

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What to Bring & Safety Tips

• You should bring a hat or sunhat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.     
• You should wear Loose, comfortable clothing, and you can also bring a light jacket or sweater.     
• Also, bring your own water shoes and swimwear or wetsuit.    
• You may need sunscreen, insect repellent     

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Ras Mohammed Tours & Excursions

Day Trips by Bus or Car

Ras Mohamed Tour by bus or car is a half-day journey. It is a short drive from Sharm El Sheikh. This tour lets you experience dramatic desert landscapes, rare wildlife, and crystal-clear waters. There is no need to dive or snorkel.

Boat & Yacht Tours

A relaxing hour-long cruise along the stunning Sinai coast to reach the world-famous Ras Mohammed National Park.

• Discover all things you may be interested in when visit Sinai through this article: Sinai Peninsula Things to Do    

Private vs Group Tours

Your budget and the experience required will control the choice between a private or group tour to Ras Mohammed. Private tours will be an ideal personalized experience for families or those looking for a deeper connection to nature. Group tours are a more convenient option for a lower budget.

Private tours

Pros:

1. Full control over itinerary, schedule, and stops.

2. You can control spending more time in places you enjoy and less time elsewhere.

3.  The guide can focus on your interests, providing in-depth information and a deeper connection with nature.

4. You will get special transitions, a more relaxed atmosphere, and greater privacy, providing more comfort. 

Cons:

1. Private tours are much more expensive than group tours.

2. Lack of opportunities for group interaction: If you are traveling alone or want to meet other travelers, this is not the best option. 

• This article will help you knowing How to Enjoy Egypt as a Solo Traveler.    

Group tours

Pros:

1. Group tours are usually affordable.

2. You can travel with other people and maybe make new friends.

3. The tour will have a fixed plan, so you don't have to worry about logistics. 

Cons:

1. You must adhere to the group schedule, which limits your ability to survive or explore independently; it is therefore less flexible.

2. You will be with people other than those close to you, which may make the experience seem less intimate.

Why Visit Ras Mohammed with Us

Expert Local Guides

At Egypt Online Tour, each of our guides is a local expert with in-depth knowledge of Egypt's history, culture, and traditions. Whether you are fascinated by the grandeur of ancient ruins or keen to immerse yourself in the vibrant life, our guides guarantee you a unique experience.

All-Inclusive Packages

We believe in complete transparency, so our trips do not include hidden fees.

We also offer comprehensive services starting with airport pick-up, private transportation, and coordinated flight routes.

Communication with our customers begins from the time they leave their door until they return to it.

Unique Experiences You Won’t Miss

Egypt Online Tour appreciates individual differences between travelers, as no two travelers are the same. That's why we've customized our trips to suit your personal preferences. For example, if you are an adventure enthusiast, are fond of diving deep into history, or need a relaxing getaway, we design every trip to meet your needs. 

Contact us now at +201274503634 or via email at [email protected] .