The National Park at Ras Mohammed is the first and only Egyptian National Park. Declared in 1983 with an area of 97 km2, it has since grown to an area of 480 km2 and includes marine and terrestrial areas at the Ras Mohammed Peninsula and the island of Tiran, and all shorelines to the highest annual tide between the main Sharm el Sheikh harbour and the southern boundary of the Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area.

Coral reef ecosystems found in the National Park are recognized internationally among the world’s best. This recognition is based primarily on the diversity of flora and fauna, clear, warm water devoid of pollutants, their proximity to shorelines and their spectacular vertical profile. The reef exists as an explosion of colour and life in stark contrast to the seemingly barren desert around it.

These reefs range in age from 15,000 to 2,000,000 years BP (before present). The more recent fossil reefs show similar species composition and structure to present day coral reefs. Recognisable species include: Goniastrea sp., Galaxea sp., Porites sp., and others. Fossil reefs, like modern reefs, were also habitats for a profusion of life seen as fossil remains in the Park. Studies of fossil coral reefs provide scientists with valuable insights regarding past climatic conditions, changing sea levers and the effect of these on coral reef ecosystems.

Coral reefs in the National Park present the visitor with a breathtaking experience. The profusion of life can at times overpower the senses of the first time visitor, but on the reef there is order. Close and careful observation will enable even the uninitiated to identify the more obvious relationships. All organisms on the reef have particular adaptations related to their feeding behaviour. Damselfish tend their patches of seaweed, defending these with vigour. Parrotfish grind at the base of corals to feed on algae. They then excrete clouds of undigested carbonate which settles and helps to cement the reef. Cleaner wrasse are seen at work on larger fish such as grouper, rays, barracuda removing parasites from their mouths, gills and outer body. Sharks, barracuda, jacks, etc. come to the reef to feed on schools of reef fish.

The reef is a complex, often bewildering, ecosystem that once understood will provide endless hours of enjoyment. Careless use will destroy both the structure and ecological equilibrium of the reef. Careful use will ensure the survival of this ecosystem.

Terrestrial areas in the National Park are a stark contrast to the exuberance of colour and life seen on the coral reef. Seemingly devoid of visible life, they are in fact home to the desert fox, Nubian Ibex (in the mountain area), numerous small mammal species, reptiles and insects. Most of this fauna is difficult to see given their nocturnal habits. Fox are often seen in the vicinity of Main and Yolanda Beaches. They are harmless if approached with care; they should not be fed but can be provided with water. Fox cubs can be seen at sunset during late spring. All other wildlife should not be approached.

The park is also home to important resident bird populations including Grey Heron, Goliath Heron, Reef Heron and their small relative, the Greenback Heron. Numerous Gulls and Terns are resident and can often be seen feeding on small invertebrates found on the shores of Hidden Bay and on shorelines fronting the Gulf of Suez. At least 5 groups of Osprey (a fish-eating falcon) are resident and breeding annually. The island of Tiran (a closed area) has one of the largest recorded Osprey populations in the Red Sea. During late summer, thousands of White Stork stop over in the Park during their annual migration to East Africa.

The National Park offers outstanding coral reef and nature viewing experiences to the visitor.

•The Eel Garden, named for its population of garden eels at 20m, also provides excellent snorkelling during calm conditions.

•The Main Beach, often crowded, remains one of the best locations to see vertical coral walls. Access is restricted to the left side of the bay.

•The old Quay, often calm but having more turbid water, has some of the best shallow water reef structure.

•Marsa Bereika, newly opened with superior corals, calm water and excellent beaches.

•Mangrove Channel – Hidden Bay are the best locations to view resident or migratory birds such as Herons, White Stork, Osprey, etc.