Umm Gammar

This is one of the most northern dive sites of Hurghada and is located half way between Hurghada and Shedwan Island. It is and island which from a distance looks like a whale or submarine with a small antenna on the top. It rises from the depths of the sea with rather steep walls. On its southern side there is a large plateau which is limited to the south and east with three large ergs. At the base of the last one there is a shallow cave at 26 m.

Dive site:

Just under the boat there is about 18 m. depth. After descending we proceed towards the north-eastern direction and shortly we should reach the edge of plateau. Following the edge we soon encounter the first erg. All three are rather like a chimneys as they are empty inside and have any holes, filled up with Cave Sweepers. In short distance we will see the next one and the last one. We can have a peek into the cave at 26 m but as the bottom of it is sandy and bearing in mind our limitations we suggest not to enter without a proper training. We return towards the boat keeping the reef on our right hand side. The top of each erg is most interesting as they create mini eco-systems with their own flora and fauna. Just under the boat there are also quite a few small coral blocks scattered around and definitely worth visiting with a underwater camera.

Flora & fauna:

One can see here almost the entire Red Sea marine life: from Basslets and Turtles sticking to the shallower depths to huge Travellies and Tunas or even Sharks cruising in the blue. Huge schools of Fusiliers also flood the scene of breathtaking beauty. Taking time to search for some interesting objects one can spot many Stone and Scorpion Fish. Many Giant Morey Eels can be seen close to the bottom of the plateau and pods of Dolphins are also frequent visitors here.

Depth: from 10 m to 40 m


                                                            (click to enlarge)