Best 5 Diving Sites in Zanzibar

You’ve just had the most incredible few days on safari. Perhaps you’ve descended the slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater, chased the Great Migration in the Serengeti, or experienced the authenticity and off-the-beaten-track nature of the other spectacular pockets of Tanzania and Kenya. And now the time has come to hit the beach for a few days of rest and relaxation – or so you think….

Yes, it’s fair to say that staying on Zanzibar is an amazing way to get over the early mornings that come with safari – and if lying on the beach with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other is your idea of heaven then this is the place for you. However, if you’re the type of traveller who craves continuing the adventure, having fallen in love with the reward of searching out wildlife, Zanzibar Archipelago has so much to offer you too.

Below we share the best diving spots in Zanzibar!

Nestled along the south-west tip of the island is a little spot called Kizimkazi, which is well known for its dolphin population. The area also offers good chances of spotting small reef sharks, and if you are really really lucky you might spot the odd manta ray too. As dive sites go, the spots in this area are predominantly wall dives, with some pretty flat and coral-filled shallow spots as well. There are no protected lagoon areas here, so you can find yourself in some ‘fun’ currents – as such, it’s not necessarily the best place for those who are a little nervous or very inexperienced.

WHERE TO STAY ON THE SOUTH COAST OF ZANZIBAR?

As for accommodation, Unguja Lodge is a great little property down here, with its own dive centre and remote sites that no one else explores.

This is a stretch of coastline that’s home to villages such as Jambiani, Paje, Bwejuu, and Dongwe, all offering some beautiful dive spots. Dotted up the coast here you’ll find some beautifully coloured lagoons, typically yielding gentle and calm conditions that are perfect for those just starting out. With depths from 12 metres down to around 19 metres, these spots are enjoyable regardless of your qualification level – the night diving in these little havens is absolutely phenomenal!

WHERE TO STAY ON THE SOUTH COAST OF ZANZIBAR?

There’s a host of fantastic properties running up this part of the island, such as:

• Breezes Beach Club & Spa
• Baraza Resort & Spa
• Xanadu Villas & Retreat
• Boutique Hotel Matlai

Breezes and Baraza have their own in-house dive centre, ‘Rising Sun’, but for the other properties look no further than Buccaneer Diving – it’s the only 5* PADI career development centre on the island!

Pemba is an island well worth considering – the marine life here may be incomparable to the likes of Mafia Island, for example, but the underwater topography is among the most beautiful I’ve come across. With steep and deep wall dives, absolutely epic drop-offs, and some gorgeous coral gardens along with some hectic currents, this is an area that typically appeals to those with a little more experience.

WHERE TO STAY IN PEMBA ISLAND?

Similarly to Mafia Island, you are somewhat limited with regard to your property choices. Constance Aiyana is the newest property on the island, and we’re expecting really great things from it. Fundu Lagoon is worthy of a mention too. Both these properties have their own in-house dive sites.

When discussing diving around Zanzibar, you simply have to consider the Mnemba Atoll. Being the only protected marine reserve on the island (with no fish zones), the abundance of life here is incredible.

Please note: Beginner divers without Open Water certificates can dive up to 12 metres. If you would like to dive deeper, an Open Water certificate is a minimal requirement but the practical element can be completed in a day.If you would like more information on diving in Zanzibar feel free to call us on +1 855 225 1155 or send us an email at [email protected].