The Bells (Blue Hole) - Image 1
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The Bells Blue Hole

4.8
·104 reviews·, Egypt

A world-renowned dive site in Dahab, Egypt, famous for its dramatic underwater chimney and deep blue sinkhole. A must for experienced divers and freed...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning dives

Calmer waters, better visibility

CrowdMedium
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The Bells (Blue Hole) - Image 1

The Bells Blue Hole

Best Time

Morning dives

Calmer waters, better visibility

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-renowned dive site in Dahab, Egypt, famous for its dramatic underwater chimney and deep blue sinkhole. A must for experienced divers and freedivers.

4.8
(104 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful places in the world for diving and snorkeling."

Vertical photo
TIP

Certified Divers Only

This site is for advanced divers. Ensure you have the proper certification and experience for deep dives. :diving_mask:

Buddy Up!

Always dive with a buddy. The depths and potential currents require constant vigilance and support. :couplewithheart:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bells Chimney

The Bells Chimney

The Bells dive site

Descend through a narrow, vertical chimney to approximately 27-30 meters. A thrilling entry for experienced divers.

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Blue Hole Drop-off

Blue Hole Drop-off

Blue Hole dive site

Experience the dramatic 120-meter vertical drop-off, a highlight for both freedivers and scuba divers.

Instagram
Bells to Blue Hole Drift Dive

Bells to Blue Hole Drift Dive

Connecting The Bells to Blue Hole

A popular drift dive following the cliff face, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

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Planning Your Visit

Dive with Respect: Safety First

The Bells to Blue Hole is a world-renowned dive site, but its depth and potential currents demand respect. Ensure you are properly certified for deep dives and always dive with a buddy. Local guides are highly recommended for first-timers to navigate the unique topography safely. InstagramReddit

Access & Logistics

Reaching The Bells Blue Hole involves a combination of transport. While some access it via a bumpy road, many opt for a boat ride. Be prepared for a potentially unorganized transfer, especially if heading to Abu Galoum. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning dives
Why
Calmer waters, better visibility
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon dives
Why
Less crowded, still good conditions
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Blue Hole // The Bells Watch till the end 🫧🔊 #scuba#diving#divermag#divesite#underwater#dahab#bluehole#thebellsdahab#egypt#divetrips#viralreels#viral#underwatervideos#informations#tbt#tb#keşfetteyiz#keşf#diveinblue#reelsviral#💙💙
rainy.dive
784 likes • 43.8K views

Certified Divers Only

This site is for advanced divers. Ensure you have the proper certification and experience for deep dives. InstagramReddit :diving_mask:

Buddy Up!

Always dive with a buddy. The depths and potential currents require constant vigilance and support. Reddit :couplewithheart:

Deep Diving in the Caves of Dahab – El Bells & the Blue Hole Freediving in the cave-like depths of El Bells – Blue Hole in Dahab is one of the most famous and beautiful dive experiences in the world — but also one of the most dangerous if not done carefully and professionally. This is one of the world’s top freediving locations. The water is deep, calm, and clear — perfect conditions for safe a...
nahas_freediver
139 likes • 3.2K views
Дайв сайт The Bells, 250метров севернее Blue Hole. Глубина на выходе из арки ± 27 метров Пронырнуть её после тренировки - святое дело😄 Всем фридайвинг! #всемфридайвинг #фридайвинг #фридайвингобучение #фридайвингдахаб #дахаб
igor_demchishin
37 likes • 481 views

Respect the Depths

The Bells descends to 30+ meters. Equalize carefully and ascend slowly. Instagram :arrowdownsmall:

Boat or Bumpy Road

Access can be via boat or a rough road. Consider your comfort level and options. Reddit :motor_boat:

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

Certified Divers Only

This site is for advanced divers. Ensure you have the proper certification and experience for deep dives. InstagramReddit :diving_mask:

Buddy Up!

Always dive with a buddy. The depths and potential currents require constant vigilance and support. Reddit :couplewithheart:

Respect the Depths

The Bells descends to 30+ meters. Equalize carefully and ascend slowly. Instagram :arrowdownsmall:

Boat or Bumpy Road

Access can be via boat or a rough road. Consider your comfort level and options. Reddit :motor_boat:

Capture the Magic

Bring an underwater camera to document the stunning marine life and dramatic underwater topography. Instagram :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(104 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Bells Blue Hole is celebrated for its breathtaking underwater scenery and challenging dive routes, particularly the Bells chimney descent and the Blue Hole drop-off. Divers praise the vibrant marine life and the unique topography. However, some find the 'chimney' less of a tunnel than expected, and access can be difficult. Reddit

"Perhaps this «El Bells» is hyped/praised too much? Too much mystic about it?
The "chimney" turns out to be a deep vertical crack in the dropping wall, leading downward to 30+ meters. It is open out to the sea all the way, so you practically don't swim in a «chimney» such many have thought it should be."

Vincent

"Simply serenity. Great calm warm blue waters. Nice servers but not much to offer in this secluded spot. Not easy to get to. Bumpy road then a boat ride then another bumpy ride."

Ahmad Alhalawani

"I like when I dive through the tunnel. It takes around 3 minutes from the surface to the exit of El bells. You need to keep equalise as it go deep directly. But it’s not that scaring and difficult. Just very narrow. Be careful not to break anything. When you exit, you will dive follow the cliff to Blue hole. If the weather is good, that part is so beautiful!
I have no photo and videos as I lost Osmo4 at here. Hope you to find mine! Lol"

Mothusi

What People Like

Stunning underwater topography
Vibrant marine life
Thrilling dive entry

What People Dislike

Difficult access
Hyped 'chimney' entry

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to The Bells Blue Hole can be challenging. Options include a bumpy road journey or a boat transfer. Many divers opt for boat trips from Dahab, which can also connect you to other sites like Abu Galoum. Be aware that transfers, especially to Abu Galoum, can be unorganized and not suitable for those with back issues. Reddit

Reaching the site involves some effort. Expect a bumpy road or a boat ride. It's a secluded spot, so plan your transportation in advance. Reddit

Yes, you can take a fast boat to Abu Galoum from the vicinity of The Bells. However, the organization of these trips can be poor, and they are not recommended for pregnant women, children, or individuals with back problems. Reddit

A two-way trip to Abu Galoum from The Bells area typically costs around EGP 120 per person, not including car rides to and from the departure points. Reddit

For divers, arranging transport through your dive center in Dahab is often the most reliable method. They can coordinate boat trips or ensure you have suitable transport to the dive site. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While there isn't a formal 'ticket' for entry to the dive site itself, you will likely incur costs for transportation (boat or vehicle) and potentially for access through local arrangements or dive center packages. Reddit

The Bells Blue Hole is accessible for diving throughout daylight hours. The best times for visibility and calmer conditions are generally in the morning. Instagram

Snorkeling is also popular here. While there isn't a specific entry fee for snorkeling, you will need to arrange transportation to the site, which will have associated costs. Instagram

Yes, it's highly recommended to book dive trips in advance, especially during peak season, through a reputable dive center in Dahab. Instagram+1

The Bells is an advanced dive site due to its depth. Divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, and experience with deep dives is crucial. InstagramReddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

The Bells is famous for its narrow 'chimney' entry that leads to a steep drop-off around 27-30 meters. It's often combined with a drift dive along the reef wall to the Blue Hole. Instagram+1

You can encounter vibrant coral reefs and a variety of Red Sea marine life. While not known for large pelagics, the reef ecosystem is rich and colorful. Instagram

The Bells is a world-class freediving location, but it is also considered dangerous if not performed carefully and professionally due to its depth and cave-like features. Instagram+1

The descent in The Bells leads to a depth of approximately 27 to 30 meters before opening up to the Blue Hole area. Instagram+1

Yes, you can hike the mountains near the fast boat meeting point for magical views of the area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic underwater topography, including the Bells chimney and the Blue Hole drop-off, are prime spots. The vibrant coral reefs also offer excellent photographic opportunities. Instagram

An underwater camera or a waterproof action camera like a GoPro is ideal. For capturing the full scope, consider a wide-angle lens or an Insta360 for 360-degree shots. Instagram

Visibility is generally excellent in the clear Red Sea waters. Natural light penetrates well, especially in the shallower areas. Deeper sections may require dive lights. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or require permits. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone near the dive sites. TikTok

Filming the descent through the narrow chimney requires careful positioning. An action camera mounted on your head or chest can provide an immersive perspective. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bells Blue Hole is primarily an advanced diving and freediving site and is generally not recommended for families with young children or non-divers. The significant depths and potential for currents pose safety risks. InstagramReddit

However, if you are a family of certified divers, it can be an incredible experience. Consider booking a guided dive trip with a reputable dive center that can cater to your family's certification levels and ensure safety. For those not diving, the surrounding areas might offer more accessible snorkeling spots, but the direct Bells Blue Hole experience is best left to experienced divers. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While the dive itself doesn't have an entry fee, the main cost for budget travelers will be transportation. Opting for group boat trips organized by dive centers in Dahab can be more economical than private arrangements. Reddit

Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodation in Dahab and arranging your dives from there. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money on site. Look for dive centers offering package deals for multiple dives or certifications. Instagram

💑 Couples

For adventurous couples who are certified divers, The Bells Blue Hole offers a truly unforgettable shared experience. Descending into the depths together and exploring the vibrant underwater world can be a romantic and exhilarating activity. Instagram

Consider booking a private dive guide for a more intimate experience. After your dive, you can relax on the shore or enjoy a meal at a local spot in Dahab, reminiscing about your incredible underwater adventure. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Bells to Blue Hole Dive Route

This iconic dive begins at The Bells, a dramatic entry point characterized by a narrow, vertical chimney that descends to approximately 27-30 meters. Divers enter through this 'chimney' and then follow the stunning reef wall. The route is a popular drift dive, meaning the current gently carries divers along the underwater landscape. Instagram+1

The dive typically concludes at the Blue Hole, a world-famous underwater sinkhole. The journey between the two sites offers a chance to admire the vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life that inhabit the Red Sea. It's an experience that combines thrilling entry with a visually spectacular underwater journey. Instagram+1

This route is best suited for advanced divers due to the depths involved and the potential for currents. Proper equalization techniques and a good understanding of buoyancy control are essential for a safe and enjoyable dive. InstagramReddit

Freediving at The Bells and Blue Hole

The Bells and Blue Hole are renowned globally as premier freediving destinations. The sheer depth and unique underwater topography make it a challenging yet rewarding location for experienced freedivers. Instagram+1

Freedivers often utilize the Bells entry to descend into the depths, reaching impressive depths of 30 meters and beyond. The Blue Hole itself offers a dramatic sinkhole to explore. However, the extreme depths and potential for strong currents mean that safety is paramount. It is crucial for freedivers to be highly experienced, well-trained, and to always dive with a competent buddy. Instagram

Many videos showcase the serene yet intense experience of freediving here, highlighting the mental and physical discipline required. It's a place where the beauty of the underwater world meets the ultimate test of breath-hold diving. Instagram+1

Safety and Certification

Given the significant depths and potential for challenging conditions, safety is paramount at The Bells Blue Hole. This dive site is not suitable for beginner divers. A minimum certification of Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent is generally required, along with proven experience in deep diving. InstagramReddit

It is highly recommended to dive with a certified local guide or dive center. They possess intimate knowledge of the site's currents, entry and exit points, and can ensure you have the appropriate safety protocols in place. Always dive with a buddy, and ensure you have adequate air supply and proper decompression procedures if necessary. Reddit

For freedivers, the risks are even higher. Proper training, regular practice, and a deep understanding of your limits are non-negotiable. Never dive beyond your capabilities, and always prioritize safety over pushing boundaries. Instagram

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