Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coast has warm water all year, coral reefs, turtles, dolphins and seasonal whale sharks. The three island groups each offer something different.
Zanzibar
- Mnemba Atoll: off the northeast coast. Easy reef dives and snorkelling with turtles, reef fish and often dolphins. Very popular.
- Leven Bank: a deeper bank north of Nungwi with strong currents and big fish such as trevally and barracuda. For experienced divers.
- Wrecks near Stone Town, such as the Great Northern cable ship.
Read about Zanzibar beaches.
Pemba
- Pemba Channel walls: steep drop-offs with excellent coral and pelagic fish.
- Misali Island: protected reefs for all levels.
Read about Pemba Island.
Mafia
- Mafia Island Marine Park: healthy reefs around Chole Bay, suitable for beginners inside the bay and more advanced divers outside.
- Whale sharks off Kilindoni from about October to March, seen by snorkelling.
Read about Mafia Island whale sharks.
When to go
| Months | Conditions |
|---|---|
| October–March | Calmer seas, best visibility, whale sharks on Mafia |
| June–September | Windier, rougher on exposed sites |
| April–May | Rains; some dive centres close |
Tips
- Use a PADI or SSI dive centre with good equipment and safety records.
- Bring your certification card and logbook.
- Do not fly within 18–24 hours after diving, which matters for flights back to a safari.
- Never touch coral or marine life.
See Mafia whale sharks.
Frequently asked questions
Pemba for walls and big fish, Mafia for reefs and whale sharks, and Mnemba off Zanzibar for easy reef dives.
October to March, when seas are calmer and visibility is best.
Yes. Mnemba, Misali and Mafia’s Chole Bay have easy sites, and dive centres offer courses.
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