While Tanzania is more widely known for its exceptional safari experiences, it also boasts an equally impressive (and often overlooked underwater realm). Stretching along the country’s Indian Ocean coastline are sun-drenched islands, surrounded by an abundance of world-class dive sites. While the most famous of these is Zanzibar, the nearby islands of Pemba and Mnemba also offer incredible dive experiences, as does the spectacular Mafia Island Marine Park.
Diving in these turquoise waters means exploring colourful coral gardens teeming with reef fish and coming face-to-face with larger species like barracuda, reef sharks and sea turtles. There’s also the chance to spot whale sharks and humpback whales during their migratory season, as well as the ever-graceful manta rays that can be found year-round in the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park.
To help you plan a sustainable dive vacation in Tanzania, we’ve highlighted what you can experience in four of this East African country's most magnificent scuba areas. We’ve also researched some of the best eco-friendly resorts in Zanzibar and the surrounding islands to help keep your environmental footprint to a minimum.
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Zanzibar/Unjuga Island
Also known as Unjuga, the main island of Zanzibar is a popular base for scuba divers, with lots of wonderful cultural activities to enjoy above water. It may not be the premier dive destination in the Indian Ocean, but it does offer a few excellent sites that are well worth exploring for those seeking an underwater adventure.
The best dive spots in Zanzibar are concentrated at the northern tip of the island, with the undersea mountain of Leven Bank in the Pemba Channel a particular highlight. This challenging, open-ocean location should only be attempted by seasoned divers comfortable with strong ocean currents. But the risk is well worth the reward, with regular sightings of large tuna, barracuda, trevally and kingfish.
Kizimkazi Reef, on the southwestern tip of Zanzibar, boasts a wonderful diversity of healthy coral formations and vibrant tropical fish, making it ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, exploratory dive experience. It forms part of the Menai Bay Conservation Area, known for its volcanic islets and sandbanks, as well as sightings of migratory humpback whales between August and October.
Wreck diving enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them occupied in the waters around Stone Town, with one of the most captivating sites being the Great Northern, a century-old wreck that now lies at a depth of 12 metres - perfect for beginners. More experienced divers can explore the remains of the Royal Naval Lighter at a depth of 30 metres.
Sustainable dive vacation in Tanzania
Eco-friendly places to stay in Zanzibar
Setting a new standard for sustainable luxury, this Zanzibar eco-resort overlooks Chwaka Bay on the island’s east coast. When you stay in one of these gorgeous villas, you’re contributing to community education projects, the implementation of renewable energy sources and a cutting-edge water treatment system. Ycona is dedicated to being carbon neutral within the decade, without compromising on the luxuries it offers guests.
"Spectacular resort, stunning views and well-equipped beach villa with private pool.” - Hasan (read more reviews here)
Facing Tumbatu Island on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, this collection of beachside villas has been constructed using local, natural materials and all are powered by solar energy. There are two multi-bedroom villas that can accommodate up to 10 guests, plus a handful of “Love Shacks” designed for couples. All feature furniture crafted from recycled dhows and the lack of high-energy-consuming A/C systems helps to keep the resort’s environmental impact to a minimum.
"What a slice of paradise. Absolutely beautiful, it literally took our breaths away.” - Brown (read more reviews here)
Perched on the southwest coast of Zanzibar, this affordable eco-lodge allows you to enjoy a sustainable holiday in Tanzania without breaking the bank. It features just a handful of bandas and stilt houses built from locally sourced materials, as well as an open-air restaurant dotted with thatched umbrellas. When you’re not out diving with the local Kizimkazi scuba operator, you can tour the local spice plantations, visit Stone Town or head out on a dhow sailing excursion.
“Little paradise in a quiet part of Zanzibar!” - Kerstin (read more reviews here)
Sustainable dive vacation in Zanzibar
Mnemba Island
Located off the northeast coast of Unjuga, Mnemba Island is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Zanzibar's diving scene, offering a captivating underwater world that has to be seen to be believed. The dive sites here are renowned for their exceptional visibility, with an average of 15-20 metres (some days exceed 30 metres) that allow for unparalleled views of the vibrant underwater ecosystem.
One of the best dive sites around Mnemba Island is Kichiwani Wall, a steeply banked coral wall with numerous crevices where everything from leaf fish to nudibranchs reside. Watta Bommies is notable for its cabbage corals and graceful turtles while Eel City is aptly named for its abundance of morays. Experienced divers shouldn’t miss Big Wall, which plunges to 70 metres and offers incredible encounters with open-ocean dwellers.
Throughout the area, you can expect to see schools of snappers and fusiliers darting past, alongside the occasional pod of dolphins. Whitetip and blacktip reef sharks also patrol the area and sightings of humpback whales are possible during the migratory season. Underwater photographers can take advantage of the natural light penetrating Mnemba Island’s shallower sites, with stonefish and crocodile fish among the inhabitants.
Protected within the Mnemba Island Conservation Area, this serene underwater oasis is perfect for divers of most skill levels. That being said, the dive sites around Mnemba Island are known for their depths and strong currents, meaning that beginner divers should consider one-on-one instruction.
Eco-friendly resorts in Zanzibar
Eco-friendly places to stay on Mnemba Island
As the only resort on Mnemba Island, this luxurious retreat is THE place to stay if you want to splurge. It boasts just 10 secluded bandas that combine traditional charm with modern comforts, plus a private stretch of beach with exceptional snorkelling right on your doorstep. As part of its commitment to sustainability, this eco-friendly Mnemba Island resort utilises solar power, has eliminated plastic bottles and actively monitors turtle nesting sites.
"Mnemba Island is casual luxury at its finest. You take off your shoes when you arrive on the island and you never put them back on until you reach the mainland after your stay.” - Kate (read more reviews here)
Located on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, directly opposite Mnemba Island, this eco-conscious dive lodge receives rave reviews for its tranquil setting and high-end facilities. It’s home to beautifully appointed suites that are ideal for couples, dive buddies and families, as well as three swimming pools and an oceanview restaurant serving Swahili-inspired cuisine. Daily dive trips are operated by the in-house PADI 5-Star operator, Dive Point Zanzibar.
“Paradise on Earth.” - Thomas (read more reviews here)
Overlooking one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful beaches at Matemwe, this sustainably run hotel is taking steps to protect the island’s natural environment. Recycled and locally sourced materials are used throughout the resort and the staff here are sooooo incredibly friendly. Aside from offering spacious rooms and suites, the Zanzibar Queen Hotel hosts a variety of free daily activities that include yoga, reef walks and musical performances in the evenings.
"Perfect place to relax and disconnect.” - Alicja (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly dive resorts in Zanzibar
Mafia Island
Located 160 kilometres south of Zanzibar, Mafia is a protected island, home to the largest marine park on Africa's east coast. It offers some of the best diving and snorkelling experiences in Tanzania, with over 50 species of coral and more than 400 species of fish recorded here.
The 28 dive sites around Chole Bay and the southeastern region of the island provide endless wonders to explore, with the opportunity to encounter everything from graceful green turtles and southern stingrays to schools of snappers, groupers and tuna. Not to miss is Kinasi Pass, a drift dive site that presents a thrilling challenge for experienced divers.
However, when it comes to diving Mafia Island, the real showstoppers are the whale sharks. While they can be spotted year-round, these magnificent reach peak numbers between October and February. Up to 180 individuals have been recorded here within one month alone!
While the waters around Mafia Island may not offer crystal clear visibility due to the nutrients that attract the whale sharks, the sheer abundance of schooling fish more than makes up for it. Mafia Island is also wonderfully preserved, boasting beautiful beaches in the southeast and a lush, verdant interior, making it a true tropical paradise.
Eco-friendly dive vacation in Zanzibar
Eco-friendly places to stay on Mafia Island
Located on Chole Island (off the southeast coast of Mafia), this eco-friendly lodge is one of the most unique accommodations in Tanzania. It features seven sustainably constructed treehouses that are open-sided to offer incredible views of the sea, with some also boasting loft bedrooms for kids and private plunge pools. Aside from scuba diving and swimming with whales, this eco-friendly accommodation in Tanzania offers village excursions and sunset sails.
"An amazing little island with outstanding tree house accommodation. Eco-tourism at its finest.” - Gina (read more reviews here)
With everything from spacious suites to charming chalets, Eco Shamba is one of the leading eco-lodges on Mafia Island. When you’re not out diving in Chole Bay and coming face-to-face with whale sharks, you can feast on delicious farm-to-table meals and learn about permaculture farming. The onsite PADI centre boasts a state-of-the-art swimming pool and a well-equipped classroom where certification courses are held.
Overlooking Chole Bay, Pole Pole is an eco-friendly Mafia Island resort that features seven bungalows, all of which are just steps from an idyllic beach. Each is eclectically furnished with antiques, including Zanzibari beds on the spacious verandahs. In between dives, you can relax in one of the hammocks strung between the palm trees, indulge at the Alasiri Spa and dine on Italian-inspired cuisine at the breezy restaurant.
“Barefoot luxury.” - Matt (read more reviews here)
Sustainable dive resorts in Zanzibar
Pemba Island
As Tanzania's northernmost island, Pemba offers captivating dive sites that are far less crowded than its more famous neighbour, Zanzibar. With conservation efforts in place since 2006, the waters surrounding Pemba boast healthy coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, all of which can be easily observed thanks to the exceptional clarity.
Along the island's west coast, the Pemba Channel brings in nutrient-rich currents that fuel the growth of stunning hard and soft corals. This abundance of nutrients also attracts whale sharks and manta rays, which are best spotted between October and April. In addition to these pelagic giants, divers are often delighted to encounter playful pods of bottlenose and spinner dolphins.
With the waters on Pemba’s western side relatively protected, most of the dive sites are accessible to all skill levels, with dramatic walls, overhangs and mesmerising coral gardens to explore. In contrast, the eastern and southern sides of Pemba are best suited for more experienced divers, with thrilling drift dives along sheer walls. Here you can expect memorable encounters with a variety of big marine life, including silvertip sharks, white-tip reef sharks and even the elusive hammerhead.
Eco-friendly hotels in Zanzibar
Eco-friendly places to stay on Pemba Island
Comprising just five rustic bungalows set along an idyllic beach, this eco-friendly Pemba lodge is located on Kiweni Island. It has been crafted from recycled boats and natural materials, offering a sustainable stay for eco-conscious travellers. Kayaking and snorkelling are available in the surrounding waters and the hospitality from Omar and his team is second to none.
“Outstanding and very good value for the money.” - Jon (read more reviews here)
Home to Swahili Divers, this eco-friendly Pemba hotel features a handful of sustainably built bungalows at the northwestern tip of Pemba Island. While the accommodation is on the rustic side, the magnificent setting more than makes up for it and the Tanzanian-inspired cuisine served at the restaurant is a treat. Swahili Divers offers full-day excursions to explore the dive sites around Pemba and forest tours are available to spot the island’s flying foxes.
“Home away from home in tropical paradise.” - Pascale (read more reviews here)
Perched on the north coast of Pemba, this luxury resort boasts a collection of secluded villas, offering incredible views of the Indian Ocean. It has been designed around the concept of “simple materiality and consummate craftsmanship” while providing a sense of complete escapism. When you’re not out diving, kayaking or cycling around the island using the resort’s bicycles, you can dine on African-inspired delicacies at the ocean-view restaurant.
“Heaven on Earth.” - Marton (read more reviews here)
Sustainable dive vacation in Zanzibar
Best time to dive in Zanzibar and Tanzania’s Indian Ocean
Driven by its equatorial location, Zanzibar’s tropical climate creates an idyllic setting for year-round enjoyment of its gorgeous beaches and world-class diving. With average highs of 29 to 33°C (84 to 91°F) and seawater temperatures rarely dipping below 25°C (77°F), the archipelago offers a warm and comfortable climate that caters perfectly to sun-seeking travellers. That being said, the region does experience two distinct monsoon seasons that can impact the suitability of certain activities, particularly water-based pursuits like scuba diving.
The first of these monsoon periods arrives between November and December, bringing with it rougher seas and heavier rainfall that can limit access to some dive sites and make water-based activities less appealing. A second monsoon sweeps through the islands from March through May, with April typically being the wettest and stormiest month of the year. During these rainy seasons, the combination of churned-up surf and poor visibility underwater can hamper the diving experience.
As a result, the most popular times for divers to visit Zanzibar are outside of these periods, when the weather is reliably sunny, the seas are calmer and the diving conditions are at their best.
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