Scuba Diving in Tanzania: Everything You Need to Know

Written By Mike, Swahili Divers
 

When you hear Tanzania, you think of famous savannahs, wildlife, safari, and the Kilimanjaro. But away from land, this tropical East African country is blessed with incredible marine biodiversity that rivals some of the best diving locations in the world.

Tanzania, located on the eastern coast of Africa along the Indian Ocean, is a booming location for scuba diving, freediving, and snorkeling enthusiasts.

With its diverse marine life and pristine dive sites like Zanzibar and Pemba Island, this destination has something for every underwater adventurer.

This is your complete guide to scuba diving in Tanzania. It reveals everything you need to know about diving in Tanzania to help you plan for your dive trip to Africa.

Scuba Diving in Tanzania

Tanzania is located on the eastern coast of Africa and boasts some of the most spectacular dive sites in Africa and in the world – Zanzibar, Pemba Island, Memba Atoll, and many more.

With its extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean and three massive lakes to the northwest, west, and southwest (Lake Victoria, Tanganyika, and Malawi), Tanzania offers a diverse range of underwater experiences for divers of all levels.

Where to Dive in Tanzania: Choosing The Right Dive Location

Tanzania is home to an array of scuba diving sites, each with its unique charm and marine life. Let's explore some of the most common ones:

1. Zanzibar: 

Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination, but it is also home to some excellent diving. The best diving in Zanzibar is found around Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine area known for its diverse marine life.

Some of the most popular dive sites in Zanzibar include Big Wall, Mwana Wa Mwana, and Nungwi Reef. 

This idyllic island paradise is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Mnemba Atoll, a marine conservation area, is famous for its colorful coral gardens and playful dolphins.

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2. Pemba Island: 

Just off Zanzibar, Pemba Island offers wall dives, drift dives, and the famous Pemba Channel with its strong currents and diverse marine species.

Pemba Island is known for its excellent visibility, healthy coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Some of the most popular dive sites on Pemba Island include Njao Gap, Manta Point, and Fundu Gap, Swiss Reef and various others.

The Island is untouched, unsaturated, and relatively new to most scuba divers around the world. They say it’s Zanzibar’s undiscovered jewel. It’s kind of what Zanzibar used to be 5 - 10 years ago.

If you’re looking for less crowded sites to explore marine life, Pemba Island is a destination you’ll appreciate.

3. Scuba Diving Mafia Island: 

Mafia Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve and is home to some of the best diving in Tanzania. The Mafia Island Marine Park is home to a variety of dive sites, including walls, reefs, and wrecks. 

Some of the most popular dive sites on Mafia Island include Kinasi Pass, Shark Point, and the MV Mafia II wreck. A hidden gem, Mafia Island's marine park is a sanctuary for whale sharks and offers a quieter, more relaxed diving experience.

4. Dar es Salaam: 

The city of Dar es Salaam is home to many cool dive sites, including wrecks, reefs, and walls. Some of the most popular dive sites in Dar es Salaam include the MV Nyassa wreck, the Msasani Peninsula, and the Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve.

5. Lake Tanganyika: 

Lake Tanganyika is the deepest lake in Africa and the world's second-deepest lake.  It is known for its unique cichlid fish species and offers an intriguing freshwater diving experience. 

There is a small but growing diving industry on Lake Tanganyika, with dive sites offering the opportunity to see a variety of cichlids and other freshwater fish.

With these diverse options, deciding which location suits your preferences may be your first delightful challenge.

Read our in-depth comparison between Pemba Island and Zanzibar: Which is the best dive site for you?


Diving Holidays Tanzania: Common Marine Life Sightings

The waters surrounding Tanzania are teeming with a rich diversity of marine life. From colorful coral reefs to magnificent megafauna, here are some of the marine species you might encounter:

  • Whale Sharks: Tanzania is one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean.

    These gentle giants can be seen year-round in the waters around Mafia Island and Pemba Island.

  • Corals: Tanzania's coral reefs are home to various hard and soft corals, creating a mesmerizing underwater landscape.

  • Fish: Expect to encounter schools of colorful reef fish, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish.

  • Turtles: Green turtles and hawksbill turtles are both common in Tanzania, and they can be seen nesting on the beaches of Zanzibar and Pemba Island.

  • Sharks: You might spot reef sharks, nurse sharks, and even the occasional hammerhead.

  • Dolphins: From July to September, Tanzania's coastal waters become a stage for humpback whales during their annual migration. Offshore, dolphins often accompany divers, adding an extra layer of excitement to your dive.

  • Manta Rays: Mantas are another graceful and majestic marine creature that can be seen in Tanzania. They are often seen feeding at Manta Point on Pemba Island.

Remember, responsible wildlife interaction is essential to protect these creatures and their habitats.

Diving Holidays Tanzania: Finding a Reputable Dive Operator

If you’re planning to go scuba diving in Tanzania, the one thing you cannot take for granted is choosing the right dive operator.

A good dive center is paramount for a safe and enjoyable diving experience. Generally, you want a center with the best technical equipment and the least dive incidents.

Here's everything you should consider:

1. Price: Standard dive excursions may vary in cost from one dive center to another. Ensure you get value for your money, but remember that quality of customer service, dive equipment, and dive experiences, matter more than price.

2. Safety: Evaluate the safety history of dive operators. Check for any incidents or accidents and assess their commitment to diver safety.

3. Technical Capabilities: Different dive centers offer various levels of expertise and equipment. Ensure they can meet your technical requirements, especially if you're an advanced diver.

4. Reviews and Credentials: Read online reviews, but remember that they can sometimes be unreliable (or paid for). Beyond reviews from TripAdvisor and booking.com, you can also see what people are saying about this center on social media. 

Genuine TripAdvisor Review on the Swahili Divers Center, Pemba Island Tanzania.

Also, verify the credentials of the dive center and its staff.

When choosing a dive agency, look at what the agency offers, has it evolved and updated the way of training like RAID or still using outdated methods like PADI, SSI, and NAUI, who are still living in the dark ages?

One of the safest Dive Centers in Tanzania and East Africa is Swahili Divers — with 0 incidences recorded in the last 7 years and hundreds of dive excursions.

Swahili Divers is the only RAID instructor training center North of South Africa, with first-world service in a third-world country.

Experience Safe Diving with Swahili Divers!

When is the Right Time to Dive in Tanzania?

You want to go diving when it’s sunny and warm, not when it rains heavily. Tanzania's climate plays a crucial role in the quality of your dive experience. Here's a breakdown of the seasons and their impact on diving:

Dry Season (June to October): This is considered the best time for diving in Tanzania, with excellent visibility and calm seas. The water temperature is comfortable, making it ideal for all levels of divers.

Rainy Season (November to April): While diving is still possible during this time, heavy rains can affect visibility and sea conditions. However, this season is when you'll find more marine life activity, making it appealing for underwater photographers.

Shoulder Seasons (May and November): These months offer a compromise between the dry and rainy seasons, providing a good balance of visibility and marine life.

Tanzania's diving season also varies depending on the region:

  • Zanzibar: The best time to dive in Zanzibar is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February. Visibility is excellent, and water temperatures are comfortable.

  • Pemba Island: Pemba offers great diving year-round, but the peak season is from October to March.

  • Mafia Island: Visit Mafia Island between October and March for the best diving conditions and whale shark sightings.

  • Lake Tanganyika: Diving in Lake Tanganyika is suitable year-round, but water clarity is best during the dry season from May to October.


In the end, the best time to dive in Tanzania depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience underwater.


Required Scuba Diving Certifications

Certifications are important wherever you go diving. Although most African regulators are less strict about certifications, it is safe to get the right certifications when traveling for scuba diving in Tanzania.

1. Open Water Diver: This is the basic certification required for recreational diving. If you're not already certified, you can obtain this certification through an WRSTC agency but keep in mind, That the training has evolved and old schools are not necessarily the best

2. Advanced Diver Certification: While not always mandatory, having an advanced certification can enhance your diving experience. It allows you to explore deeper waters and develop more advanced diving skills.

3. Specialty Courses: Depending on your interests, you may consider taking specialty courses such as underwater photography, wreck diving, or nitrox diving to make the most of your dives in Tanzania.



Preparing for Your Dive Trip to East Africa

To ensure you're well-prepared for your scuba diving trip in Tanzania, here's a checklist of items to pack:

Dive Gear: If you have your own equipment, including a mask, snorkel, fins, BCD, regulator, and wetsuit, be sure to pack them. Otherwise, check if the dive center provides rental gear.

Dive Logbook: If you're a certified diver, your logbook is essential for recording your dives and tracking your progress.

Dive Computer: Having a personal dive computer can enhance your safety and enjoyment during dives.

Swimwear and Rash Guard: Comfortable swimwear is essential, and a rash guard can protect you from the sun and marine stings.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat will shield you from the tropical sun.

Insect Repellent: Especially important if you plan to explore on land as well.

First Aid Kit: A small kit with basic medical supplies can be handy for minor injuries.

Dry Bag: Protect your belongings from getting wet during boat rides.


Health and Safety Precautions

Here are A few precautions for safety while you’re on our warm shores.

Immunizations: Consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before traveling to Tanzania.

Dive Safety Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with dive safety protocols and refresh your knowledge of dive tables and decompression procedures. Contact a dive center in Tanzania for more details on dive safety guidelines.

Emergency Procedures: Learn the emergency procedures of the dive center you choose, including their communication and evacuation plans.

Contact Information: Keep emergency contact information handy, including the nearest medical facilities and the embassy's contact details.



Conservation Efforts

Tanzania is committed to marine conservation. As a responsible diver, here's how you can contribute to protecting the marine environment:

Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from marine life, avoid touching corals, and never harass or chase animals.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose reef-safe sunscreen to prevent coral bleaching.

Reduce Plastic: Minimize single-use plastic waste by using reusable water bottles and bags.

Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives: Join local clean-up efforts to remove debris from the ocean.

The Dive Briefing

Before each dive in Tanzania, you should receive a dive briefing from your dive operator. 

Here's what to expect from…

Site Description: The dive master will describe the dive site, including its unique features and what marine life you might encounter. I happen to be a dive master for Swahili Divers, Pemba Island’s leading diving agency, and I usually provide videos and pictures of the sites we’ll be exploring, for clarity.

Safety Guidelines: You'll receive safety instructions, including hand signals, emergency procedures, and dive profiles. Here are my 10 safety guidelines for safe diving, and snorkeling experiences in Tanzania.

Environmental Awareness: Dive briefings often include information on protecting the environment and responsible diving practices.





Dive Conditions

It’s important to know what temperature and water conditions you're going to meet here, so you’re better prepared mentally. Tanzania's dive conditions vary by location and season:

Water Temperature: The water temperature typically ranges from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making it suitable for comfortable diving in a wetsuit.

Visibility: Visibility can range from 15 meters to 40 meters (50 to 130 feet), depending on the site and weather conditions.

Currents: Some dive sites may have mild to moderate currents, so be prepared for varying underwater conditions.



Post-Dive Activities and Exploration

You’re not gonna dive all day, are you? 

Scuba diving is one of the primary attractions in Tanzania, but there are plenty of activities to enjoy on land :

On-Land Adventures

National Parks: Explore Tanzania's renowned national parks, such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, for unforgettable wildlife safaris.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local cultures by visiting traditional villages and learning about Tanzanian customs.

Beach Relaxation: Unwind on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, Pemba, or Mafia Island after your diving adventures.



FAQ - Your Tanzania Scuba Diving Questions Answered

What are the Visa requirements for Tanzania?

Visa requirements for Tanzania vary by nationality. Check with the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country to determine if you need a visa and the application process.

How to get to Tanzania

Tanzania is accessible through several international airports, including Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha. You can book flights to these airports from major cities worldwide.

How much will a scuba diving trip cost?

The cost of scuba diving in Tanzania varies depending on factors such as the dive center, location, and the number of dives. On average, expect to pay between $50 and $100 per dive. Dive packages and equipment rentals may also influence the overall cost.

What are the Best times to see specific marine life?

  • Whale sharks: Best seen in Mafia Island from October to March, But also in Pemba as they migrate North.

  • Humpback whales: Witness their migration in all 3 Islands from July to September.

  • Manta rays: Encounter them on Pemba Island from October to March.

  • Dolphins: Spot dolphins year-round in Zanzibar, and Pemba with peak sightings in the morning.


Is Tanzania safe for Scuba diving for beginners?

Tanzania offers beginner-friendly dive sites with calm conditions suitable for novice divers. Most dive centers provide introductory dive experiences, also known as Discover Scuba Diving programs, for beginners.


What to do in case of a dive emergency?

In the event of a dive emergency, contact your dive operator immediately. Dive centers in Tanzania are equipped to handle emergencies and provide first aid. Evacuation plans to the nearest medical facility will also be in place.



Conclusion

Scuba diving in Tanzania offers a world of underwater wonders, from colorful coral reefs to encounters with magnificent marine life. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Tanzania's diverse dive sites have something to offer. 

Remember to prioritize safety, respect the environment, and capture the magic of the underwater world through photography or videography. Explore the beauty of Tanzania both above and below the surface for an unforgettable adventure.





 
 
 
 
Mike, Swahili Divers

Hi there, I'm Mike. I've spent countless years immersed in the captivating world of scuba diving and snorkeling around the enchanting Pemba Island. As the founder of Swahili Divers, Gecko Lodge, and Restaurant, I've dedicated my life to sharing the unparalleled beauty and marine diversity of this hidden gem in Tanzania, East Africa.

My journey into the world of scuba diving began as a passion that quickly evolved into a lifelong pursuit. With certifications that span the entire spectrum of diving, from RAID training to advanced open water, I've gathered firsthand experience in exploring Pemba's intricate underwater landscapes.

But beyond the certifications, what truly sets me apart is my unbridled love for this aquatic realm and my commitment to sharing its wonders with the world.

https://swahiligecko.com/diving
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