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Blue Hole Dahab

4.9
·101 reviews·, Egypt

A legendary underwater sinkhole and coral reef, offering world-class diving and snorkeling with vibrant marine life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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blue hole

Blue Hole Dahab

Best Time

Morning

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary underwater sinkhole and coral reef, offering world-class diving and snorkeling with vibrant marine life.

4.9
(101 reviews)

"The Blue Hole is majestic, a truly wonderful place, like the Maldives of Egypt!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 4x4 Transport Essential

Standard cars can't reach the Blue Hole. Book a 4x4 taxi or tour in advance for a smooth journey.

🤿 Dive with Caution

Known for diver fatalities. Beginners should stick to guided dives with certified professionals.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Arch

The Arch

Underwater tunnel

A breathtaking underwater tunnel connecting the Blue Hole to the open sea, plunging to depths of 120m. A true test for experienced divers.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens

Seaward side

Vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, offering a spectacular snorkeling and diving experience.

The Saddle

The Saddle

Shallow opening to the sea

A shallow, 6m deep passage that provides an accessible entry point to the open sea for snorkelers and divers.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to the Blue Hole

Accessing the Blue Hole requires a 4x4 vehicle due to the terrain. Many visitors opt for organized tours or local taxis that can handle the sandy tracks. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure transport and avoid last-minute hassles.

Diving Safety at the Blue Hole

While stunning, the Blue Hole has a reputation for diver fatalities. Experienced divers should be aware of the depth and potential risks. Beginners or those with limited dives should consider guided dives with reputable operators to ensure safety and enjoy the incredible underwater world.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good visibility for snorkeling
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Discover the BLUE HOLE 😍🐠. Would you like to swim here? 📌Save this post for your next trip to Dahab 5 Facts About The Blue Hole of Dahab: 1️⃣ Known as the “World’s Most Dangerous Dive Site” – it’s a thrill for experienced divers! 2️⃣ Depth: Over 100 meters – a paradise for freedivers. 3️⃣ Home to stunning marine life & coral formations 🐠🌿. 4️⃣ Features the famous Archway, connecting the hole t...
_dgtravel_
0 likes • 17.1K views

🚗 4x4 Transport Essential

Standard cars can't reach the Blue Hole. Book a 4x4 taxi or tour in advance for a smooth journey. Reddit

🤿 Dive with Caution

Known for diver fatalities. Beginners should stick to guided dives with certified professionals. Reddit

Freediving The Bells dive site at Dahab blue hole 💙💙💙. Amazing place to dive, so I of course needed to do it several times while I was in Dahab. Big thanks to @ma7moudabdo_ for showing me the place and having some fun dives after depth training sessions 🙏😊 Safety: @ma7moudabdo_ #dahab #dahabbluehole #blueholedahab #bells #apnea #freediving #freediver #amazingdive #freefall #vapaasukellus #vapaa...
1nstatomm1
216 likes • 9.2K views
Dahabs blue hole. I have been here. I’ve done it. The blue hole is 130 meters deep. I was told there is a skeleton of a woman laying at 90m deep. Its a safe dive...if you know what you’re doing #bluehole #dahab #blueholedahab #scubadiving #creepy
scubadanadventures
6.1K likes • 211.5K views

🐠 Snorkel Paradise

Even if you don't dive, the snorkeling is majestic with abundant coral and fish. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The desert sun is intense. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen for your visit. :droplet:

Today we’re taking our advanced student to one of the most famous dive sites in the world: the Blue Hole in Dahab 🐠 The Bells to Blue Hole drift dive, a favorite among advanced divers for its unique underwater topography, relaxed current, and vibrant coral reef. 🪸 📩 Interested in fun dives or continuing your dive education in Dahab? Yalla, send us a message today! 🎥 @andreatechdives #ssi #...
octdahab
94 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 4x4 Transport Essential

Standard cars can't reach the Blue Hole. Book a 4x4 taxi or tour in advance for a smooth journey. Reddit

🤿 Dive with Caution

Known for diver fatalities. Beginners should stick to guided dives with certified professionals. Reddit

🐠 Snorkel Paradise

Even if you don't dive, the snorkeling is majestic with abundant coral and fish. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The desert sun is intense. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen for your visit. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(101 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Blue Hole is a visually stunning natural wonder, lauded for its majestic underwater scenery and abundant marine life, making it a top spot for snorkeling and diving. However, its reputation for diver fatalities due to extreme depths and potential risks is a significant concern for visitors, emphasizing the need for caution and proper certification.

"My 2nd time in a year ...it was Egyptian holidays so very busy but still enjoyed it again...this place facinate s me. Snorkel and the blue water is amazing."

Michael Newton

"The Blue Hole is a submarine sinkhole, with a maximum depth within the hole of just over 100 m There is a shallow opening to the sea around 6 m deep, known as "the saddle", long tunnel, known as "the Arch", whose ceiling is at a depth of 55 m and whose bottom falls away as it reaches the seaward side to about 120 m On the seaward side the floor drops steeply to over 1,000 metres The hole and the surrounding area have an abundance of coral and reef fish.The Blue Hole is popular for freediving because of the depth directly accessible from shore and the lack of current.
The dive site is reputed to have the most diver fatalities in the world with estimates of between 130 and 200 fatalities in recent years.The reasons for why this site has such a high number of fatalities are not clearly understood."

شينوبي حبيبي

"One of the best places to snorkel. I don't dive. The place is majestic. Can't reach it with normal cars. Must use special vehicles. But it's totally worth it."

Karim El Banna

What People Like

Majestic underwater scenery
Abundant coral and fish
Great for snorkeling

What People Dislike

High diver fatality rate
Requires 4x4 access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reaching the Blue Hole requires a special vehicle. Standard cars cannot navigate the sandy terrain. It's highly recommended to arrange a 4x4 taxi or join an organized tour from Dahab town. Many visitors find booking this transport in advance ensures a smoother experience and avoids potential issues upon arrival. Reddit

No, a regular car is not suitable for reaching the Blue Hole due to the sandy and uneven tracks. You will need a 4x4 vehicle. If you are not on an organized tour, hiring a local 4x4 taxi is the best option. Reddit

The most common and recommended way is to hire a 4x4 taxi from Dahab. Alternatively, many dive centers and tour operators in Dahab offer packages that include transportation to the Blue Hole, often combined with diving or snorkeling trips. Reddit

Public transport options are very limited and not practical for reaching the Blue Hole. The journey involves off-road driving, making private hire vehicles or organized tours the only viable options. Reddit

The journey from Dahab town to the Blue Hole typically takes around 20-30 minutes by 4x4 vehicle, depending on the starting point and road conditions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is typically an entrance fee to access the Blue Hole area, which is part of the Ras Abu Galum Protectorate. The fee usually covers access for the day and helps maintain the protected area. It's advisable to check the current fee upon arrival or with your tour operator. Reddit

The Blue Hole is generally accessible throughout daylight hours. While there isn't a strict closing time like a museum, it's best to plan your visit during daylight to fully enjoy the snorkeling and diving, and to ensure safe travel back to Dahab. Reddit

Tickets for the Blue Hole are usually purchased on-site at the entrance to the protected area. Online booking is not commonly available for individual entry. If you book a tour, the entrance fee might be included in the package. Reddit

The main restriction is the need for appropriate transport (4x4). For divers, it's crucial to be certified and aware of the risks. Freedivers should also be experienced. The area is a protected marine park, so respecting the environment is paramount. Reddit

The entrance fee typically grants you access to the Blue Hole site for the day. This includes access to the shore for snorkeling and diving. Facilities like restrooms and basic cafes might also be available, though their quality can vary. Reddit

🎫 🤿 Diving & Snorkeling

The Blue Hole is known for its depth and has a reputation for diver fatalities, making it potentially dangerous for inexperienced divers. While the 'Saddle' offers a shallow entry, the main attraction, 'The Arch,' is at significant depth. Beginners should only dive here with a certified guide and if they feel confident in their skills. Reddit

The maximum depth within the Blue Hole itself is over 100 meters (approximately 330 feet). The famous 'Arch,' a tunnel connecting to the open sea, has its ceiling at about 55 meters and the floor drops to around 120 meters on the seaward side. Reddit

Absolutely! Snorkeling at the Blue Hole is highly recommended and offers a fantastic experience. You can see abundant coral and reef fish from the surface, especially around the shallower areas and the 'Saddle' entry point. Reddit

The Blue Hole and its surroundings boast an abundance of coral formations and a wide variety of reef fish. You can expect to see colorful corals, schools of tropical fish, and potentially other marine creatures depending on the conditions. Reddit

Yes, there are dive centers and local guides operating at the Blue Hole. It is strongly advised to use a reputable guide, especially if you are not a highly experienced diver, to ensure safety and to fully appreciate the site. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The underwater world itself is the main photographic draw, with vibrant corals and fish. The dramatic drop-off and the 'Arch' offer incredible opportunities for experienced underwater photographers. On land, the stark desert landscape meeting the turquoise sea provides a beautiful contrast for landscape shots. :camerawithflash:

Yes, underwater photography is very popular here. If you are diving or snorkeling, bringing an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case is highly recommended to capture the stunning marine life and coral formations. :iphone:

For underwater shots, a good quality action camera (like a GoPro) or a dedicated underwater camera is ideal. For surface shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive desert and sea views. Remember to protect your gear from sand and saltwater. :camerawithflash:

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and local customs. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of local people without their permission. :camerawithflash:

Mornings often offer calmer seas and softer light, which is great for both underwater and landscape photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but it also creates dramatic light shafts underwater if you're diving. Late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour light. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Blue Hole offers a unique experience for families, though with some considerations. While the deep diving is for experienced individuals, snorkeling at the 'Saddle' is fantastic for children who are comfortable in the water. The shallow entry and abundant fish make it an exciting introduction to marine life. Ensure children are supervised at all times and wear life vests if they are not strong swimmers. Reddit

Getting to the Blue Hole requires a 4x4 vehicle, so families should book an organized tour or a private 4x4 taxi that can accommodate everyone comfortably. The journey itself can be an adventure for kids. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection, as facilities can be basic. The stunning scenery and the chance to see colorful fish will likely be a highlight for younger visitors. Reddit

🤿 Certified Divers

For certified divers, the Blue Hole presents an iconic, albeit challenging, dive site. Advanced Open Water divers and above can explore the famous 'Arch,' a tunnel at approximately 55 meters, leading to depths of over 100 meters. This requires excellent buoyancy control, gas management, and a thorough understanding of deep diving principles. Always dive with a buddy and consider hiring a local guide who knows the site intimately. Reddit

Even if you're not seeking extreme depths, the Blue Hole offers other dive opportunities. The reef walls on either side of the hole provide excellent drift dives with abundant marine life. For those looking for a less intense experience, the 'Saddle' area offers shallower reef exploration. Remember that the Blue Hole has a history of incidents, so prioritize safety, dive within your limits, and conduct thorough pre-dive checks. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting the Blue Hole can be done on a budget by focusing on snorkeling and arranging shared transport. Look for group tours from Dahab that often include transportation and the entrance fee at a more economical rate than private hires. Pack your own lunch and snacks to save money on food at the site, as prices can be higher. Reddit

While diving packages can be expensive, snorkeling offers incredible value for money. The vibrant marine life is easily accessible from the shore. Consider bringing your own snorkel gear if you plan to visit multiple sites, though rentals are usually available. The main cost will be transportation and the park entrance fee, so compare options to find the best deal. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Risks: Diving the Blue Hole

The Blue Hole in Dahab is world-renowned, but it carries a significant reputation for diver fatalities. The primary concern is the depth, with the main attraction, 'The Arch,' a tunnel at around 55 meters, leading to depths of over 100 meters. This depth requires advanced diving certifications and meticulous planning. Many incidents are attributed to divers exceeding their training limits, experiencing nitrogen narcosis, or running out of air due to poor planning or equipment issues. Reddit

For those with less experience, the 'Saddle' offers a safer entry point to the sea at a shallow depth of about 6 meters. However, even here, currents can be a factor. It's crucial for all divers, regardless of experience, to dive within their limits, conduct thorough pre-dive checks, and ideally, dive with a buddy or a certified guide. Local dive operators in Dahab are experienced with the site and can provide essential safety briefings and guided dives tailored to your certification level. Reddit

Freedivers are also drawn to the Blue Hole's accessibility to depth. However, the same risks of depth, pressure, and potential blackouts apply. Responsible freediving practices, including never diving alone and being aware of your limits, are paramount. The beauty of the Blue Hole is undeniable, but respecting its power and potential dangers is key to a safe and memorable experience. Reddit

Beyond the Dive: Snorkeling and the Surrounding Beauty

While the Blue Hole is famous for its diving, it's also an exceptional spot for snorkeling. The 'Saddle,' a shallow reef area, provides easy access to a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful coral and a diverse array of reef fish. Even from the surface, you can witness the stunning marine biodiversity that makes this region so special. It's a fantastic alternative for those who don't dive or are looking for a more relaxed way to experience the Red Sea's wonders. Reddit

The journey to the Blue Hole itself is part of the adventure. The site is located in a protected area and requires a 4x4 vehicle to navigate the sandy desert tracks. This off-road experience adds to the sense of remoteness and discovery. Upon arrival, you'll find a dramatic landscape where the stark desert meets the brilliant turquoise waters of the Red Sea. Basic facilities, including cafes, are usually available, offering a place to rest and refuel while taking in the breathtaking views. Reddit

Many visitors describe the Blue Hole as a 'Maldives of Egypt' due to its stunning natural beauty. The combination of the accessible marine life, the unique geological formations, and the picturesque desert-sea interface makes it a truly majestic destination. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a casual snorkeler, the Blue Hole offers an unforgettable encounter with the natural world. Reddit

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