Zanzibar diving and snorkelling guide
Zanzibar has warm water, coral reefs and turtles. Mnemba Atoll, off the north-east coast, is the best area for both diving and snorkelling.
Best areas
- Mnemba Atoll: coral, turtles, reef fish and dolphins. The most popular site.
- North coast (Nungwi, Kendwa): reefs, wrecks and deeper dives such as Leven Bank for experienced divers.
- Stone Town: wrecks and reefs near Prison and Bawe islands.
- South: reefs near Kizimkazi.
Marine life
Green and hawksbill turtles, moray eels, octopus, lionfish, reef sharks on some sites, and dolphins on the way out.
When
October to March for the calmest seas and best visibility. From June to September the wind can make crossings rough.
Learning to dive
Several PADI dive centres offer courses, from try-dives to Open Water.
Choosing an operator
Check the centre’s certification, equipment condition and group sizes. Ask about conservation practices at Mnemba.
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