Umm Qamar

Hurghada


Umm Qamar, 9km north of the Giftun Islands, is highlighted by three coral towers that are swathed in beautiful soft, purple coral and surrounded by a large range of fish as well as a wreck at 25m. The site is easily accessible by boat from Hurghada and offers plenty of thrills for divers and snorkellers.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Hurghada attractions

1. Giftun Islands

7.9 MILES

These islands, among the closest to Hurghada, form part of a marine reserve and are surrounded by a number of spectacular reefs teeming with marine life,…

2. Hurghada Marina

8.9 MILES

Hurghada's marina is a pleasant, car-free place to stroll, especially in the evening. When you get tired of staring out to sea or dreaming about owning…

3. Hurghada Public Beach

8.97 MILES

Hurghada's public beach is not so appealing – it is often full of litter, and foreign women may feel uncomfortable about the attention they will attract…

4. Sha’ab Al Erg

10.02 MILES

Ease of access means this is an excellent dive site for beginners, though veteran divers will still enjoy the towering brain corals and fan-encrusted rock…

5. Gota Abu Ramada

12.95 MILES

A mind-boggling abundance of marine life is on display here, 5km south of the Giftun Islands, making Gota Abu Ramada a popular spot for underwater…

6. Shedwan Island

13.7 MILES

There is some fabulous diving off this island, which sits in the straits between Hurghada and Sharm. Pilot whales and large pods of dolphins have been…

7. Siyul Kebira

15.17 MILES

The reef’s upper section is home to bannerfish, angelfish and snapper. If the current is strong, you can drift along the wall skirting the edges of huge…

8. Sha'ab Abu Nuhas

16.81 MILES

More than a few ships have come a-cropper on this reef, just north of Shedwan Island, so if you're a wreck diving fan, this reef should be high on your…