About this spot
Gota Sataia 1 sits within Egypt's Wadi Gamal-Gebel Hmaata Marine Protected Area, one of the Red Sea's most strictly managed zones. The site offers year-round diving opportunities, making it accessible to travelers planning trips in any season. The protected status means the reef environment remains stable and well-preserved, with no current coral bleaching stress recorded. The dive site supports a documented marine ecosystem with 12 recorded species observations. This diversity indicates a healthy reef system capable of supporting everything from schooling fish to reef-dependent invertebrates. The protected area designation ensures minimal human impact, allowing natural marine communities to thrive. Divers visiting Gota Sataia 1 contribute to one of Egypt's most important conservation zones. The site's inclusion in a managed marine protected area reflects its ecological value to the broader Red Sea system. Access and permit requirements apply due to the MPA status, so plan accordingly before arrival. The year-round diving window means you can schedule trips based on your preference rather than strict seasonal windows, though conditions vary throughout the calendar.
📖 Guide: Diving in Egypt: 258 Sites From Wrecks to Hammerheads
Best months
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 220V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 8h · direct
- Jet-lag: 7h east · 5 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Gota Sataia 1?
The site offers year-round diving. No seasonal closures or restricted months are documented, so you can plan based on your personal schedule and general Red Sea conditions.
›What marine life can I expect to see?
Twelve species have been recorded at the site, indicating a healthy reef ecosystem. Specific species and encounter frequency vary, but the protected status supports a stable marine community.
›Are there access or permit requirements?
Yes. Gota Sataia 1 lies within the Wadi Gamal-Gebel Hmaata Marine Protected Area. Check with local authorities and your operator about current permit rules and entry procedures before diving.
›What is the coral health status?
The site shows no coral bleaching stress. The marine protected area status helps maintain reef stability and minimizes damage from human activity.
