Explore the Underwater Wonders: Diving in Tanzania : Tanzania is famous for its large wildlife population, spectacular mountains, and diverse cultures. It is home to the best wildlife safari destinations, like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and many more.
Most visitors come to Tanzania for wildlife safaris. And once their trip is over, they leave the country without realizing the piece of cake they just missed. That is exploring the underwater wonders and relaxing on the beach.
The azure blue waters of the Indian Ocean stain the horizon blue. Under the turquoise waters of this ocean, are beautiful creatures worth seeing. The great lakes like Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika are fascinating destinations to dive deep in.
What is a diving safari?
A diving safari involves swimming deep underwater to explore marine life and enjoy the thrill. Diving goes deep in the water contrary to swimming and snorkeling.
In most cases, divers use a scuba (self-contained underwater breathing apparatus), and for this, diving is referred to as scuba diving.
Where to dive in Tanzania?
There are many dive sites in Tanzania, each with unique marine life and experiences. Let’s see some of the interesting sites.
Leven Bank
This reef lies in the Pemba Channel, north of Zanzibar. Divers will enjoy a lot from this dive site. However, Leven Bank is good for experienced divers. It is prone to high currents. It is not for beginners.
Divers can discover a lot on this site. They include coral reefs and marine creatures such as pelagic species, dolphins, Napoleon wrasse, and white-tip reef sharks. The kingfish thrive in strong currents. Moray eels are also common at Leven Bank.
Misali Island
It is also called Misali Island Coral Garden. This remote island is one of the intriguing dive sites. Divers can explore a diverse range of marine species. They include turtles, eels, manta rays, and many more.
The pros of diving on this island are:
Firstly, it is perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Secondly, it is unspoiled. Thus, it offers an authentic touch to the environment. Lastly, Misali Island is just off the coast of Pemba. Divers can simply reach it from this green island.
Mafia Island
Mafia is also remote. It is the perfect destination to see humpback whales and whale sharks.
These creatures are migratory.
For the best sightings of humpback whales, time them when they cross Mafia Island from August to October. However, if you want to see whale sharks, visit Mafia between November and March.
Mafia Island is also home to over 42 types of corals and over 400 species of fish. Notable fishes include groupers, sea turtles, snappers, sting Rays, and tuna. Other marine species include whales and turtles.
Milimani Reef, Jina Pass, and the Dindini Wall are fascinating scuba diving sites on Mafia Island. A diving safari on Mafia Island is worth a try for an unforgettable marine adventure.
Nungwi
Nungwi is a famous place in Zanzibar. It is famous for its pristine beach – Nungwi Beach. Visitors enjoy the coolest breezes on the exquisite beach. Besides beach holidays, visitors can also enjoy diving. The common view is humpback whales on their annual migration (July to October).
As you explore deep down the water, you may see manta rays, whale sharks, etc. Are you a beginner? Don’t worry! There is no significant change in ocean tides on this site. So, it is quite perfect for you.
Kizimkazi
Unguja Island, the main island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, is a unique diving destination. Some pristine dive sites in Zanzibar include Mnemba Atoll and Kizimkazi.
Kizimkazi is an exceptional diving site on the southern tip of Unguja Island. The marine life is rich in Kizimkazi, including many species of fish.
Kizimkazi is home to beautiful fishes, including buffer fish, box fish, emperor fish, nudibranchs, surgeon fish, trumpet fish, and moray eels. Others include sea horses, scorpion fish, leaf fish, octopus, blue spotted rays, barracudas, tuna, reef sharks, turtles, and dolphins.
Pemba Island
Zanzibar may be crowded. If that’s the case, you can choose Pemba instead. It is not as famous as Zanzibar, so you will enjoy beach holidays on secluded beaches. There, you will explore diverse marine life and coral reefs.
You may encounter sharks, including hammerhead, silvertip, and white-tip sharks. You will enjoy diving in notable dive sites like Coral Mountain. You might see corals, rays, turtles, octopuses, and other fish species.
If you are a beginner and want to enjoy diving, Wattabomi is an ideal choice. Immerse yourself deep into the water and discover species like angelfish, fusiliers, parrotfish, damsels, butterflyfish, cuttlefish, turtles, and dolphins.
Mnemba Atoll
Mnemba Atoll is a famous dive site in Zanzibar. It is rich in marine life. Fishing is prohibited, thus increasing the concentration of marine species. What to see when diving includes picturesque reefs, dolphins, and many fish species.
Lake Tanganyika
Probably, you are in the far west of Tanzania and have no idea of where to dive. Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-deepest lake is an ideal site for you.
The diving industry is still yet to grow like the Indian Ocean coastline. Yet, you may enjoy the views of cichlids and other beautiful fish.
You can spend your daytime at Gombe or Mahale. These parks host the last remaining species of chimpanzees. Besides diving chimpanzee trekking, will add flavor to your trip.
Dar es Salaam
Are you looking for diving spots in Dar es Salaam? Spending time around this bustling city is amazing. You can visit Bongoyo and Mbudya Islands for a diving experience. Voyage the coastline to find the best dive sites. Enjoy such an incredible experience with the marine species.
When to Dive in Tanzania?
Diving is available year-round in Tanzania. However, July to October is the best time. The temperature is favorable. There is clear sea and low cloud cover.
There is a great chance to spot humpback whales in August. These migratory marine species arrive in Zanzibar in late July. Sightings are guaranteed from July to October each year.
Tanzania has many spots for diving safaris. Join Focus East Africa Safari on an excursion in the marine life of the Indian Ocean. We will take you to lesser-known dive sites. The feeling of being submerged in water is exhilarating. You should plan not to miss a diving safari in Tanzania.
