Ras Mohammed National Park: A Visitor’s Guide from Sharm El Sheikh

Egypt’s first national park protects some of the Red Sea’s richest reefs. Here is how to visit it from Sharm El Sheikh — and how to choose between boat and land.

By Egypt Royal Holidays TeamPublished 21 October 2026Updated 23 October 2026 2 min read

Aerial view of the turquoise lagoon and coral coast of Ras Mohammed National Park

At the very southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba, lies Ras Mohammed — Egypt’s first national park and one of the most celebrated marine areas in the world. Just a short drive or cruise from Sharm El Sheikh, it is the highlight of many holidays.

Why Ras Mohammed is special

The park protects coral reefs that drop into deep blue water, attracting turtles, reef sharks, rays and enormous schools of fish. On land, it reveals desert landscapes, a salt lagoon and mangroves. Because it is protected, the reefs are healthier and more colourful than in many other places.

Boat trip or land tour?

There are two main ways to visit, and each has its advantages.

By boat: a yacht trip to Ras Mohammed and White Island takes you to the best reefs by sea, with two or three snorkelling stops and a swim at the White Island sandbank. Ideal for snorkellers and anyone who loves a day on the water.
By land: a Ras Mohammed land tour visits the Magic Lake, the earthquake crack and the mangroves, with snorkelling straight from the beach. Ideal for families with young children and anyone who prefers not to spend a day on a boat.

Highlights not to miss

White Island: a bright sandbank that appears in the middle of turquoise water
The Magic Lake: a salty lagoon whose colours change with the light
The earthquake crack: a long fissure left by an ancient earthquake, filled with clear water
The mangroves: one of the northernmost mangrove forests in the world

Practical tips

Bring your passport or a copy — there is a checkpoint on the way to the park
Use reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or stand on coral
Water shoes are useful on rocky shores
Mornings usually offer the calmest water and the softest light for photos
National park fees apply; we confirm them in your offer

Combine it with Tiran

If you love the sea, plan Ras Mohammed and a Tiran Island snorkelling day on different days. Together they show you the very best of the Red Sea around Sharm El Sheikh. Ask us and we will arrange both with hotel pick-up.