Diving in Zanzibar

With several tiny islands off its shores, it can be argued that when scuba diving, it is best to go to the northern Coast, in which the tiny atoll of Mnemba has varied species of tropical fish across its reefs.

Head further north to the untouched island of Pemba, in which diving experts describe as one of the best diving locations in east Africa. Accessed from Zanzibar by boat, the Pemba channel, and the area surrounding Pemba’s western coast has over 320 coral reef species; twice the amount of any other diving location in this region.

The tiny sand atoll Mesali can be found within the Pemba channel, and it is advised to dive here during an incoming tide, to make the most of clearer waters and to increase the chances of seeing bigger pelagic fish. On the island of Pemba, the Fundu Lagoon is a relaxed boutique hotel with a professional team of PADI qualified instructors, all with specific local knowledge of the Mesali and waters surrounding Pemba. Whilst it is a perfect all year round destination, it may be worth considering timing your visit between November to April when Sharks migrate through the Pemba channel. Throughout the coastline of Zanzibar, most hotels will offer to arrange scuba diving expeditions and training with additional costs, and it will be easy to access the beautiful and untouched Pemba island.