Abu Echera

Abu Echera is a coral reef dive site in the southern Red Sea, in the Hamata / Wadi Gimal area of Egypt.

Overview

Abu Echera lies in a stretch of the Egyptian Red Sea coast between Port Ghalib and Hamata — an area of exceptional marine biodiversity that sees comparatively low diver traffic. The coastline here is protected by the Wadi El Gemal National Park, one of Egypt’s largest marine protected areas, and the reefs within and near the park show the benefits of this protection with excellent coral cover and abundant wildlife. Abu Echera is a representative example of this type: a well-structured reef with diverse corals, rich fish populations, and the occasional larger pelagic visitor drawn by clean, nutrient-rich water.

Site Information

• Location: Hamata / Wadi El Gemal area, southern Red Sea, Egypt
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 20 meters
• Typical Visibility: 20–35 meters
• Current: Variable; moderate on exposed reef faces
• Best Time: October to April

Marine Life

The protection afforded by the national park supports particularly healthy coral cover and fish populations. Sea turtles are common throughout the Hamata area. Various ray species including spotted eagle rays transit the sandy margins. Large schools of fusiliers and sergeant majors inhabit the reef crest. Reef sharks are present on the outer slopes. The macro life on protected reefs in this region is outstanding, with nudibranchs and flatworms in abundance.

Dive Profile

Descend to the reef crest and navigate along the top of the reef before dropping to the outer slope. The slope at 10–20 m features varied coral growth and overhanging formations. Return up the slope and complete a safety stop in the shallower reef garden.

Entry and Exit

Access by day-trip boat from Hamata or by liveaboard. The Hamata harbour is the launching point for day trips to reefs in this area. Liveaboards operating southern Red Sea itineraries regularly include Abu Echera-type reefs in their schedules.

Tips and Recommendations

• The Wadi El Gemal park area is significantly less crowded than Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh — relish the quieter experience
• Combine Abu Echera with nearby Fury Shoal sites for a diverse southern Red Sea liveaboard itinerary
• Dawn dives in the area are particularly rewarding — clear water, low boat traffic, and active reef life
• Turtles in this area are particularly relaxed around divers due to limited encounter pressure
• Bring a reference guide for Red Sea nudibranchs — the macro life here rewards species identification

Safety Considerations

The remoteness of the southern Red Sea requires self-reliance. Carry fully charged dive computers, SMBs, and signalling devices. The nearest decompression facilities are in Marsa Alam. Always dive with a buddy and monitor depth and time carefully.

Photography

The protected reef status means excellent coral quality and relatively undisturbed marine life. Wide-angle coral garden shots with natural light are highly rewarding. Turtles and rays provide charismatic wide-angle subjects. The macro life on protected reefs here rivals more famous sites in the northern Red Sea.

Sources: Divezone - Red Sea, Dive the World - Egypt Red Sea, Red Sea Scuba Diving, PADI - Diving in Egypt. Last updated 2026-04-04.