Mozambique Diving

Scuba diving in Mozambique

Mozambique DIVING HIGHLIGHTS

INTRO TO Mozambique

Nestled along the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique boasts a tropical climate, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural tapestry. With a long coastline stretching over 1,500 miles (2,500 kilometers) along the Indian Ocean, Mozambique is a hidden gem for scuba enthusiasts. The warm, inviting waters are home to diverse marine species, while the coastal towns provide a unique blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences.

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For more information about diving in Africa, read our guide to diving in Tanzania, Zanzibar, and Kenya here. 

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Diving Information 

Dive into Mozambique to discover pristine coral reefs, an abundance of fish, and opportunities to encounter both large pelagic and unique macro life. With plenty of coastline to explore, there is no shortage of dive sites to suit your interests. Mozambique diving caters to divers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

Marine Life & Environment

Divers exploring Mozambique's underwater realm will encounter a kaleidoscope of marine life. The coral reefs teem with colorful fish, while larger species such as whale sharks, dolphins, and humpback whales grace the waters seasonally. Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is a refuge for large animals such as sharks, manta rays, sailfish, marlin, and the elusive dugong, offering a rare opportunity to witness these gentle sea creatures in their natural habitat. Experience incredible shark diving in Ponta do Ouro, where over ten species of shark are commonly seen. Macro enthusiasts will find plenty of nudibranchs and bucket list critters; you may spot harlequin shrimp, hairy frogfish, and rhinopias - perfect for underwater macro photography!

Looking for more destinations to interact with whales? Read our guides to snorkeling with humpbacks in Moorea and close encounters with Pacific gray whales in San Ignacio or join one of our amazing whale group trips!

Diving Conditions

• Water Temperature: Ranges from 17°C/63°F in the winter (June-November) to 30°C/86°F in the summer (December-May).
• Visibility: Typically between 50 to 100+ feet (15 to 30+ meters).
• Weather: Dry season is May to September; warmer temperatures during the rainy summer months.
• Currents: Vary depending on tides, with gentle drifts and more challenging currents for advanced divers.

Top Dive areas

With a sprawling coastline on the Indian Ocean, Mozambique boasts several notable dive regions worth a visit. Here are some of the most popular dive areas in Mozambique:

• 1. Tofo - A region famous for manta ray and whale shark encounters, Tofo Beach is a must-visit destination for scuba divers, with various dive sites boasting fascinating topography and marine life, including reef sharks, eels, nudibranchs, scorpion fish, and even dugongs. In season, surface intervals often involve scouting for humpback whales and whale sharks, with potential opportunities to snorkel with these gentle giants.
• 2. Bazaruto Archipelago - This pristine archipelago is home to vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and the iconic Two-Mile Reef. Vibrant coral reefs, overhangs, and deep dives for advanced divers await. Wildlife encounters include several species of rays, reef sharks, Zambezi sharks, and sometimes dugongs and whale sharks. It’s no wonder this region is sought-after by scuba divers.
• 3. Quirimbas Archipelago - Explore hidden gems like Matemo Island, where you can dive sites with exceptional coral formations teeming with fish, plus an interesting wreck. Look for barracuda, crocodile fish, rays, and reef sharks. In the right season, humpback whales are prevalent in this area.
• 4. Ponta do Ouro - Shark lovers need look no further than this region in southern Mozambique just 10 km from the border with South Africa. Dive the famed Pinnacles dive site for the chance to see over 10 different shark species! Look for bulls, tigers, oceanic blacktips, schooling scalloped hammerheads, silver tips, leopards, spinners, white tips, and nurse sharks. A deep drift dive in blue water, the site is suitable for advanced divers. For the best experience, dive in the summer months from November to May.

 Check out our guide to diving South Africa for another unique African dive destination.

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Travel Information 

Visit Mozambique to experience remarkable diving and combine your trip with visiting other hot diving destinations in Southern Africa, such as Tanzania or South Africa. With incredible cultural experiences and adventurous land-based activities in addition to spectacular diving, Mozambique is a destination worthy of a longer visit. Make the most of your trip by adding an African land safari to your itinerary to see some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet.

How to Get There

Travel to Mozambique depends on the specific area you choose to visit. International airports are located in Maputo (MPM), Vilankulos (VNX), and Pemba (POL). From there, you can take domestic flights to reach your preferred destination. Many flights from the US transit through Johannesburg (JNB), which also offers flights to other regional airports in Mozambique, so it is worth looking at multiple options, especially if you plan to add another African destination to your trip.

How to Dive Mozambique

Diving in Mozambique is gaining popularity, with plenty of standalone dive operators and resorts/lodges providing onsite scuba diving services. Many of these operations also offer packages to visit more than one region in Mozambique and even other areas of southern Africa to enhance your experience. Daily dive trips in Mozambique are often via zodiacs launched from the beach, so if you have mobility issues, please ask about the exact dive setup before booking. 

Best Time to Dive

Mozambique diving is enjoyable year-round; however, seasonal weather conditions affect the currents and visibility, and the best time to dive in Mozambique depends on what region you visit and what you want to see. The dry winter months, from May to September, offer the best visibility and calmer weather - perfect for underwater photography. Mozambique's incredible humpback whale migration takes place along the coast from June to October, providing a bonus for those visiting during this period. Those seeking whale sharks will have the best chance to spot them from December to April. Shark diving in Ponta do Ouro is best in the summer months from November to May, when more sharks are in the area.

Whale Sharks in Mozambique - When and Where

The highest sightings of whale sharks in Mozambique are along the coastline of the Inhambane province. One of the best places to see and swim with these beautiful creatures is in Tofo, Inhambane (Praia do Tofo). Often in between double tank dives - the boat captain will keep an eye out for whale sharks, allowing clients to spend their surface interval snorkeling with these gentle giants. It’s not often that you see a whale shark on scuba in these areas, but it is still possible. The recommended times to visit the area if you’re in search of whale sharks is September - February, while these warm waters are rich in plankton and krill! Interacting with these creatures can last around 15 minutes as you swim along with them. Dive operators in these areas give thorough briefings, encouraging safe and mindful interactions. Visibility is constantly changing - some days, it is blue with +-25m visibility and other days, the visibility can be extremely low with greener-colored water. 

Topside & Non-Diving Activities

While not underwater, Mozambique offers a plethora of activities including: 

• Explore the historic Stone Town in Ilha de Mozambique
• Relax on pristine beaches
• Sample traditional cuisine
• Snorkeling
• Sailing
• Fishing
• Dune boarding
• Wildlife reserves
• Cultural festivals

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Other Useful Information 

Practical Information

• Currency: Metical (MT), or meticais (plural)
• Language: Portuguese is the official language, though not widely used. The majority speak a variety of over 60 languages and dialects. English is widely understood in certain regions.
• Time Zone: UTC+2
• Electricity: 220 volts AC 50 HZ

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