Ras Mohammed: Red Sea Snorkeling & Lake of Desires Day Trip

Red Sea colors at Ras Mohammed snorkeling with mangroves and surreal lake

You’ll swim in Ras Mohammed’s Lake of Desires (yes, really), pass through the Gate of Allah with stories from your local guide, and snorkel among wild Red Sea corals near Sharm El Sheikh. Mangroves, rare birds, and a glimpse into how salt clings to leaves—all in one day that ends before you’re ready for it.

What’s included

• Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sharm El Sheikh in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• stops to rent snorkeling gear if needed.
• entry through the Gate of Allah.
• swimming time at the Lake of Desires.
• guided visits to mangroves and earthquake fractures.
• plus plenty of time for snorkeling among Red Sea corals before heading back mid-afternoon.

Traveler reviews

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ras Mohammed National Park excursion

• Pick up from hotel at 8:30
• Stop to rent snorkeling gear
• Enter through Gate of Allah
• Swim in Lake of Desires
• Snorkel at Barracuda Bay
• Visit mangroves and observe wildlife
• Return to hotel around 14:30

The Experience

The first thing I noticed was the light—so sharp it made everything at Ras Mohammed look almost unreal. Our guide, Ahmed, had this calm way about him, like he’d seen a thousand sunrises here but still liked pointing out the weird salt crusts on the mangrove leaves. The bus ride from Sharm El Sheikh was quieter than I expected, maybe because everyone was half-awake or just saving energy for the day. There was this faint smell of sunscreen mixed with sea air when we stopped to grab masks and fins—someone’s kid kept giggling every time the rental guy tried to fit her vest.

I didn’t expect to feel anything walking through the Gate of Allah, but there’s something about those massive stone shapes against all that empty sky. Ahmed told us a story about wishes made here (I won’t say mine out loud). The Lake of Desires was colder than I thought it’d be—almost silky on my skin—and supposedly good for cuts or scrapes. A couple next to me splashed each other and laughed so hard they nearly dropped their goggles. I floated for a bit and tried not to think about anything except how salty everything tasted.

Snorkeling at Barracuda Bay is what people talk about, but honestly? It’s not just the fish—it’s the silence under there, broken only by your own breath. Bright flashes of yellow and blue darted past; someone pointed at a lionfish (I stayed back). Later we wandered through mangroves where Ahmed showed us how the trees spit out salt underneath their leaves—he let us touch one, gritty and cool. On the way back, I watched sunlight flicker on cracked earth left by an old earthquake fracture. Still thinking about that strange quiet underwater—you know?

Top questions

How long does the Ras Mohammed day trip from Sharm El Sheikh take?

The tour starts around 8:30 am and returns to your hotel by about 2:30 pm.

Is snorkeling equipment included in this tour?

You can rent masks, fins, vests, or swimsuits at an extra cost during a stop early in the trip.

Is this excursion suitable for young children?

Yes, children can join as long as they are comfortable with short trips; infants seats and prams are possible.

What are some highlights included in this Ras Mohammed tour?

You’ll see the Gate of Allah, swim in Lake of Desires, visit mangroves, snorkel Barracuda Bay, and view an earthquake fracture.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Are meals or drinks provided during this trip?

No mention is made of meals or drinks being included; bring your own snacks if needed.

Does this tour include hotel pickup from Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are both included in your booking.