Blog Find a Dive Shop Replace your Card

Diving in Zanzibar

Explore diving in Zanzibar

The coral reefs of Zanzibar rank among the most vibrant in the world, home to over 500 marine species and offering incredible underwater diversity. Whether you’re a snorkeler, macro photographer, or deep diver, scuba diving in Zanzibar has something for everyone. With more than 30 dive sites, including reefs, walls, and wrecks, the island is far more than just a beach escape. The powerful currents at Levan Bank attract big game fish like kingfish, trevally, and tuna. Zanzibar is also one of the best places globally to encounter whale sharks, especially around Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine reserve where turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks are regularly seen from September to December.

When to dive in Zanzibar

You can enjoy scuba diving in Zanzibar all year round thanks to the warm Indian Ocean waters, which maintain temperatures around 80°F (27°C). Visibility is often excellent, frequently exceeding 30 meters, making it perfect for exploring the island’s vibrant coral reefs, wrecks, and walls. From September to December, divers have the incredible opportunity to encounter whale sharks, along with turtles and dolphins, especially around protected sites like Mnemba Atoll. With diverse dive sites suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike, Zanzibar offers year-round diving adventures in one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Whether you’re after macro life, big game fish, or pelagic encounters, Zanzibar scuba diving promises unforgettable underwater experiences.

Book your diving in Zanzibar

Common marine life sightings for Zanzibar

More Information

Certain airlines (Ethiopian, Kenya, Oman, Qatar, Condor and Edelweiss) fly direct to Zanzibar, however most large international airlines fly to Dar es Salaam, which is only a short ferry trip away from the islands.

Fly with our Partner Condor from Frankfurt to Zanzibar. With the Condor Activity Card your dive luggage flies for free.

Are you flying from Zurich? Our partner Edelweiss will fly you to Zanzibar. 23kg dive luggage is included in the flight price.

Once on the islands it is easy to find transport, with the cheapest options being the dala-dala (mini-bus taxi share) to get from Stone City to the north, east and south coasts. If you prefer more freedom, rent a car. Taxis and transfers are also widely available.

Time Zone
UTC+03:00
Phone
+255 24
Currency
TZS
Voltage
220-240 V
Pressure
Bar (bar)
Plug
D, G
Languages
Swahili
1st Stage
DIN
International airports
Julius Nyerere Intl. (DAR)
img
Carry Your Card with Pride!
Showcase your diving skills with a new PADI certification card in eCard or waterproof card made from recycled materials. Limited supply!
Get Yours Now
img
Stay Connected In and Out of the Water
PADI Club™ is your way to meetup with divers, keep your skills fresh, and take your diving to the next level with a FREE annual magazine subscription, discounted PADI eLearning courses + more!
JOIN NOW
x

Save that favourite

With a PADI Travel account, you can favourite dive operators to come back to later on any device or computer

Log in or sign up