The coast of East Africa is host to some of the Indian Ocean's finest dive sites. Marine diversity, healthy reefs and a sea that is often crystal clear have established the islands of Pemba, Zanzibar and Mafia as world class dive destinations. The warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean flow into the deep Pemba channel concentrating nutrients, which in turn support an impressive variety of marine life. Further south, Mafia Island Marine Park is home to an array of tropical marine habitats, two species of turtle and enjoys seasonal visits from whale sharks.
Inland, Tanzania offers some of the best game viewing opportunities in Africa. The regions landscape is both varied and spectacular, providing a stunning backdrop to the countries natural wealth of flora and fauna.
The coast of Kenya and Tanzania, along with the islands that lie off it, have developed over the past millennium in to a heady mix of East African and Arabian cultures. This has left its mark on both the local population and the cuisine, offering friendly people and tasty food.
Diving Around Pemba Island
Pemba Island offers an incredible mix of thrilling drift dives, deep water drop offs, dramatic marine walls and magical picture postcard white beaches and inlets.
The protected reefs and dramatic vertical coral cliffs of more than 800 metres are the defining feature of many dive sites along the west coast. Coral gardens, sponges and sea fans cover these marine cliffs, which often stretch as far as the eye can see and hosts a fascinating array of colourful reef fish, turtles and pelagics and large Napoleon wrasse. The view over some of these spectacular precipices is typically excellent, from 20 - 60 metres.
The island of Pemba itself is the world’s largest producer of cloves. Fragrant plantations cover much of the island, and provide the major source of income for the island. Stretching along the east coast, there are a number of exquisite small islands, coves and bays bordered by white sand beaches that help make the island timelessly beautiful.
DIVING ARound mafia island
Mafia Island is the most southerly of the archipelago, and the majority of dive sites are located in Chole Bay, part of the marine park. The sheltered and shallow bay is a natural harbour with dive sites from 5-27 metres depth. Highlights here include Nudi City and Frogfish Town, both located off Utende beach. The sites offer an abundance of macro life, resident barracuda and regular sightings of rays and octopus.
Outside the bay, Kinasi Pass is known for its pinnacle, rising from 24 to 12 metres, where Jesus and Moses, two huge potato cod, are regularly seen. It's a popular dive site for experienced divers.
The healthy reefs and variety of tropical marine habitats offer divers an incredible diversity and vibrant marine life to enjoy.
Tailormade Holidays and Twin Centres
We offer tailormade holidays to Pemba and Mafia. This means that we can organise your holiday based on your requirements. We can also offer a twin centre option of Pemba or Mafia with a safari option or a trek to Kilimanjaro.
Add a Safari or Kilimanjaro trek
Alternatively, you may wish to explore Zanzibar:
Explore Zanzibar from the Zanzibar Palace Hotel