Diving and snorkeling in Zanzibar
Discover the African underwater paradise
On the coast of Tanzania you will find the Indian Ocean. This ocean offers a breathtaking diversity of marine life. From sea turtles to whale sharks and from large coral reefs to steep chasms, you will find it all here. This makes the islands off the coast of Tanzania excellent for scenic diving or snorkeling excursions. We at Paradise & Wilderness would love to take you into the underwater world of Tanzania. We cover all the islands like Zanzibar and Pemba Island and show you when the coral reefs are at their most beautiful.
When is the best time to dive and snorkel at Zanzibar?
All year round, but between October and March you can really do the best diving and snorkeling in our opinion. This is because the ocean is a little calmer during this period. In addition, the ocean water is warmer and you can see further underwater. From June to September, it is more difficult to predict what the weather is going to be like. This is because this is the period where it can blow hard off the coast of Tanzania.
Water temperature and visibility around Zanzibar
The average water temperature off the coast of Tanzania is 27°C. This is slightly below it in some periods and slightly above it in some periods. If we are going to look at the visibility field you have underwater. In the period October through March the visibility is around 30(!) meters. In the other period this can be a little less due to wind or rain.
Several islands off the coast of Tanzania
Off the coast of Tanzania are several islands, all of which have unique underwater environments surrounding them.
- Zanzibar
- Pemba Island
- Mafia Island
Zanzibar
Snorkeling near Zanzibar is actually mostly done at a very small island 1.5 km off the north coast. This island is called Mnemba Island and this island possesses Zanzibar’s most famous nature reserve. The coral reef that lies off the coast is seven by four kilometers and has been designated a Marine Conservation Area.
Fortunately, the condition of this beautiful coral is excellent! With a huge diversity of tropical fish and sea turtles, this coral reef offers a great place to snorkel and dive. In addition, you have several drop offs and several coral gardens in this coral.
Visiting Mnemba Island with Paradise & Wilderness? You certainly can! Take a look at our day trip to Mbemba Island.
Mnemba Island is not the only place around Zanzibar where coral reefs are found. Both off the west, east and north coasts you will find coral reefs. These are not as spectacular as the coral reefs at Mnemba Island, but are certainly a fine and peaceful alternative.
Pemba Island
Pemba Island is an island located north of Zanzibar. Considered a true snorkeling and diving island, this island offers numerous opportunities. In fact, Pemba Island is one of Africa’s most famous and popular dive sites. You will find less shallow coral reefs and small fish here, unlike Mnemba Island. In fact, Pemba Island is known for strong currents, steep chasms and large fish such as reef sharks and even the rare whale sharks (October to March).
Deep chasms, very clear water, coral reefs untouched by humans, unique marine life and remote locations: that’s diving and snorkeling around Pemba Island. You have several popular dive sites that all have names. We have listed the most popular ones for you.
- Swiss Reef
- Emerald Wall
- Panza Wreck
Mafia Island
Mafia Island Marine Park is considered one of the most important ecosystems in the world. With a huge diversity of coral reefs and marine animals, this is a wonderful place for people who want to snorkel and dive. In addition, this is also where the manatee and green sea turtle often reside.
The diversity is also reflected in the underwater landscape. The least deep corals are at about 6 meters, the deepest at up to 28 meters. This landscape is full of beautiful coral fields, large chasms and even caves. Mafia Island’s most famous diving site is called the Chole Bay.
Between November and February, it is also possible to swim with whale sharks in this region. This is because these mighty fish migrate through the Rufiji Mafia Kilwa Marine Reserve during this period. This area consists of land and sea area south and west of Mafia Island.
Discover the underwater paradise for yourself!
Looking for a unique location to dive and snorkel, look no further. The islands off the coast of Tanzania offer a huge diversity of underwater scenery, marine life and coral reefs. Join Paradise & Wilderness in search of sea turtles, colorful coral and dolphins. Add
Zanzibar
to your safari trip and ask what diving and snorkeling opportunities are available to you!
