Solo Exploration of Ras Muhammad National Park

Diving Deeper into Ras Muhammad's Embrace

Today was a day of submersion, both literally and figuratively. I find myself increasingly drawn into the unique beauty of Ras Muhammad National Park, a place where the desert's starkness meets the Red Sea's vibrant life. It's a world that constantly surprises, a stark contrast to the familiar comfort of my antique shop in Heidelberg. The treasures here are not crafted by human hands, but by the patient artistry of nature over millennia.

My day began, as it has for the past few mornings, with breakfast at Osprey Ras Mohamed. The familiarity of the setting is comforting, and the anticipation of the day's dives always makes the strong coffee taste that much better. The staff, now recognizing me, greeted me with warm smiles and a quiet efficiency that I appreciate. After a hearty breakfast, fueling up for a day of underwater exploration, I prepared my gear and set off for Jackfish Valley.

Jackfish Valley, also known as Fisherman's Bank and Stingray Alley, is located on the north side of Ras Muhammad. Entering the water, I was immediately greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors. The reef teemed with life, a bustling metropolis of fish darting amongst the coral. Emperor angelfish and regal angelfish fluttered about, adding to the vibrant scene. The sunlight filtering through the water illuminated the reef, creating an ethereal glow. I spent a long time simply floating, observing the intricate dance of life unfolding before my eyes.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

The valley itself is formed by a secondary reef creating a sandy 'alley' where strong currents flow. It is known as a site where, in early spring, mating fish congregate. Though it's September, I was still fortunate enough to witness an impressive array of marine life. Schools of jackfish, true to the valley's name, swam in coordinated formations, their silver bodies flashing in the sunlight. I even caught a glimpse of a blacktip reef shark, a fleeting shadow that added a thrill to the dive.
One of the highlights of Jackfish Valley is a small cave swim-through at around 5 meters. The cave is porous, with cracks that allow sunlight to penetrate, creating mesmerizing light patterns on the walls. Swimming through this underwater grotto felt like entering another world, a secret chamber hidden beneath the waves. I paused inside, allowing the silence and the play of light to wash over me, a moment of profound peace.


Explore the serene beauty of Jackfish Valley in South Sinai, a hidden gem offering stunning landscapes, adventure, and tranquility for every traveler.

After resurfacing, I took a short boat ride to my next destination: Marsa Breka. This serene natural bay offered a different, but equally captivating, diving experience. The name translates to “Blessed Dock” or “Calm Big Pond,” and it certainly lived up to its name. The waters here were tranquil, the visibility exceptional.
Marsa Breka is known for its sandy beaches and is an important nesting ground for sea turtles. While I didn't see any turtles on this dive, I was struck by the abundance of other marine life. The shallow sandy plateau is perfect for macro photography. I spent a considerable amount of time searching for nudibranchs and other small creatures, marveling at their intricate beauty.


Explore the pristine beauty of Marsa Breka, a nature preserve in Ras Muhammad, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life await.

I explored a stunning canyon that starts at just 6 meters, teeming with glassfish and lionfish. The canyon gently slopes down to around 30 meters, offering incredible visibility and unique geological formations. Swimming through this underwater ravine felt like exploring an ancient, submerged city, the rock formations sculpted by the relentless power of the sea.
As the day drew to a close, I decided to treat myself to a drink at the Aqua Bar. Located within the Renaissance Sharm El Sheikh Golden View Beach Resort, this bar offers stunning views of the Red Sea. Sipping a refreshing cocktail, I watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves created a soothing ambiance, a perfect end to a day of underwater exploration.


Discover Aqua Bar: Your ultimate seaside retreat in Sharm El Sheikh, offering refreshing drinks and breathtaking views of the Red Sea.

Dinner was once again at Osprey Ras Mohamed. The restaurant, nestled in the heart of the national park, offers a unique dining experience. The Bedouin-style cabanas provide a sense of privacy and intimacy, while the fresh seafood is a testament to the bounty of the Red Sea. As I savored the flavors of grilled fish and traditional Egyptian cuisine, I reflected on the day's adventures.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore El Beach and L'ILE BLANCHE. I am particularly intrigued by L'ILE BLANCHE, or White Island. It is a sandbar in the middle of the sea, a unique geological formation that I am eager to witness. I've also heard there's a Stone shop that I might visit. It could hold some interesting pieces for my shop back in Heidelberg.

As I sit here now, writing in my journal, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. This solo journey to Ras Muhammad National Park has been a transformative experience, a chance to reconnect with nature and to discover the hidden wonders of the Red Sea. It's a far cry from the quiet predictability of my antique shop, but it's a journey that is enriching my soul and expanding my understanding of the world. Perhaps, I'll find a small antique stone to bring home to Erika. It would make a lovely gift. Perhaps she would like to visit here with me sometime.