This dive site, Marsa Umm Gerifat South, offers an easily accessible and diverse underwater experience. Entry is simple via a staircase from a jetty, zodiac, speedboat, or the beach. The reef gently slopes, featuring several plateaus and a captivating canyon ranging from 6 to 18 meters deep. Training platforms are conveniently located at 2, 3, 5, and 9 meters, making it ideal for divers of all skill levels, particularly beginners.
The marine life is exceptionally rich and varied. Divers can encounter turtles, whitetip reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse, lionfish, moray eels, ghost flutefish, whale sharks (though less frequent), manta rays, clownfish, stonefish, barracuda, titan triggerfish, and scorpionfish. The healthy coral formations provide a vibrant habitat for a vast array of smaller fish and invertebrates.
The best time to visit Marsa Umm Gerifat South is during the warmer months, from April to October, when the water is calm and visibility is at its best. While suitable for both snorkeling and freediving due to its shallow depth and generally calm conditions, divers should always be mindful of the potential for mild currents. It's important to maintain a respectful distance from marine life and avoid touching corals or disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
