Mozambique Dive Discoveries
Whale sharks and manta rays along with 2500 kilometres of unspoiled beaches must be part of the
main reasons for divers visiting Mozambique. Several well equipped dive centres and resorts are
scattered along the coast of Mozambique, offering a wide variety of diving options with plentiful
accommodation ranging from basic Guesthouses to luxury Resorts. Many leisure scuba divers also
visit the exquisite islands of Mozambique as these islands offer pristine reefs with luxury
accommodation.
Mozambique is one of the finest diving destinations in the world due to its remarkably unspoilt
coral reefs and an abundant variety of marine life that all levels of divers can enjoy all year round.
Sea temperatures vary between 30°C in summer to 21°C in winter and the structure of the reefs
offer pinnacles, overhangs, coral arches and much more. Reef depths vary from 10m to 40m and
offer good visibility and fantastic photo opportunities. Not only of the incredible range of coral but
of over 6,000 species of fish. Above the waves, dolphins are frequently encountered as are
leatherback, loggerhead and green turtle. Humpback whales can be sighted between August and
October.
Mostly Mozambique is an all year diving destination; however the months of December to March
can be stormy with plentiful rain.
Diving Destinations
Dive Sites in Pemba
Pemba is a great location for diving and resort activities, it is also the jump off point for travel to the
Quirimbas Archipelago in the north of Mozambique. Wimbe Beach in Pemba Bay is the place for
setting off to a variety of excellent deep dive sites where you'll see incredible marine life and great
topography. There are shallower reefs close to the continental shelf for multi-level diving and then
there are also deep dives.
Some suggestions:
The Gap reef is south of Pemba and very close inshore. There is a continental shelf drop off which
goes straight down for between 15 and 100 metres (up to 328 feet). Plenty of big game fish occur
here. It's suitable for advanced divers with deep diving experience.
Playground is a shallow wall dive of up to 12 metres (39 feet) on Pemba Bay's northern peninsula
that can only be dived when the conditions are good. There are caves and overhangs rich with
crayfish and other marine life. Advanced divers with deep dive experience are suited to this site.
Pyro Banks is close to The Gap. It is a shallow reef of up to 15 metres (49 feet) with lots of fish and
corals to see. It's suitable for advanced divers with deep diving experience. Nearby is another coral
reef, Ponta Saide Ali, which slopes down to 21 metres (68 feet). It has a huge bank of coral and a
valley packed with anemones. Advanced divers with deep experience could see reef sharks,
Gurnards, Rays and even Black Marlin.
River Mouth features large boulders and a coral reef that reaches 24 metres (78 feet) in depth. It is
located at the mouth of the Tari River, so visibility is best at high tide. Advanced divers with deep
experience could spot huge Napoleon Wrasse, reef sharks, Rays and Snowflake Soap Fish.
Willys Reef lies between Playground and River Mouth and it's another deep dive for advanced
divers with this kind of experience. There is a flat reef with a tall ridge on one side and a sandy
bottom. The average dive depth is about 30 metres (98 feet) and you'll see reef sharks, Rays, sea
turtles and even Black Marlin.
Farol Ledge is also a dive for advanced divers with deep experience. The average depth is about 30
metres (98 feet) but the ledge starts out quite shallow and then drops down. You could spot all the
big stuff as well as Snowflake Soap Fish and lots of coral fish.
Baobab Rocks consists of a string of boulders and rocks on a sandy slope. The average depth here is
about 30 metres (98 feet) and it's suitable for advanced divers with deep experience. Crocodile Fish
are abundant and you'll also see the usual reef sharks, Rays, sea turtles and Black Marlin.
Whipcoral Garden is a group of underwater hills which are covered in coral and soft sponges. You
can reach great depths but the average is about 30 metres (98 feet). This is an advanced deep
water dive in the bay which is great when the conditions are not good outside of the bay.
Penguin Shoal consists of big banks of coral and also a coral whip forest. Again, the average depth
is 30 metres (98 feet) and the dive is best for advanced divers with deep experience. All the usual
suspects can be seen here as well as large Crayfish.
Dive Sites in Pomene and Morrungulo
This tranquil area is located between Vilanculos and Maxixe. It is at least 3 hours from
the nearest main road and offers pristine reefs and beaches. There are about more than
10 dive sites and you are likely to see Manta Rays on every reef.
Rappies Playstation has a busy horseshoe shaped cleaning station. With depths of about 20 metres
(65 feet) there are many caves and swim throughs to discover. Marine life includes Manta Rays,
garden eels and small shark species.
Trojans Gauntlet is an exciting open water reef with a pinnacle in the shape of a horse's head and
wonderful topography. Many Manta Rays can be seen in the depths which reach 18 metres (59
feet).
Big Surprise or Zambezi Reef reaches 18 metres (59 feet) in depth and has very little current. There
is a big rocky outcrop to explore and you'll see a wide variety of marine life and lots of sharks.
Pinnacle Reef at 28 metres (91 feet) is where you can see large Yellow Black coral and Hawkfish and
Bay Ledge at 26 metres (85 feet), offers Sail Fish and a Manta cleaning station.
Robs Ridge can reach depths of 15 metres (49 feet) and is suitable for Open Water divers with drift
experience and up. The ridge runs alongside the coast and is full of corals and tropical fish. On the
outside you'll find lots of places for Moray Eels and Skates.
Zambia Shoal is a great place to see game fish like Marlin, Sail Fish and Wahoo. The depth can reach
about 26 metres (85 feet) and the dive is suitable for Open Water level and up.
Pension is another open water reef with depths of 15 metres (49 feet) where you can see Scorpion
Fish, Devil Rays and Eagle Rays.
The Hand is another interesting reef with a unique hand-shaped rock formation.
Sleepy Hollow is so named because of a cave on the reef where a Bull Shark tends to linger. The
reef has an average depth of about 10 metres (32 feet).
Baixo Sylvia Reef at Morrungulo runs parallel to the beach for quite a distance. The maximum
depth can reach 25 metres (82 feet). Dive qualifications could vary depending on how deep the dive
is, but generally Open Water upwards. The reef has a fossilised stone bed with gullies and small
drop offs with plentiful reef fish. Another associated reef is New Years Reef with similar features.
Caves and Overhangs is an inshore dive at Morrungulo. Novices and more experienced divers can
enjoy this reef with its caves and rocky islands teeming with reef fish. The maximum depth is 12
metres (39 feet).
Jakes Crack is also accessed from Morrungulo and suitable for advanced divers. The reef forms part
of the continental shelf so expect dramatic topography, lots of reef sharks and a maximum depth
of 32 metres (104 feet).
King Deep at Morrungulo is good for beginners and more experienced divers with depths reaching
about 40 metres (131 feet). It's on the continental shelf so there will be some dramatic sights,
helves, outcrops and gullies. Look out for Hammerheads and big Potato and Brindle Bass.
Dive Sites in Quirimbas Archipelago
Sun drenched islands, powder white sand and pristine reefs that have yet to be truly explored are
what you'll find in the Quirimbas Archipelago. You can be among the first to see this exquisite
underwater world in the Quirimbas National Park.
Some of the tantalizing suggestions for divers on a Quirimbas holiday.
Zala Bank has breath-taking topography and dizzy drop offs. The huge sand bank is covered in
fabulous hard and soft corals teeming with reef fish and reef sharks, while in the depths you'll see
visitors from the deep blue.
Matemo Channel and Rush Hour. In the Channel you can investigate gentle slopes and little ridges
covered in coral and sandy patches alive with marine life. Rush Hour is a very popular site and called
this because of the many schools of game fish that favour this area. You can dive to depths of
about 14 metres (45 feet) or more and be blown away by the variety of life there.
Rolas Island has a number of shallow coral gardens on its southern peninsula which are very good
for novices and those learning to dive. Opportunities for underwater photography are excellent.
Reef fish are abundant and you could even see the elusive Pipe Fish, as well as Nudibranchs,
Crocodile Fish and many more.
Ibo Island is delightful destination in itself - steeped in history it also has some wonderful dive sites.
There is a small wall with many overhangs and a sloping sandy bottom - depths can reach about 18
metres (59 feet). Keep a look out for a huge variety of reef fish, large schools of fish like Spanish
Mackerel, reef sharks and Rays.
Quilalea Island is a remote but spectacular destination with pristine, untouched reefs full of coral
and teeming with fish. The dive sites cater for all levels, from the house reef and a unique night dive
location, to Montepuez Channel and Saint Lazarus Bank - there are at least 17 dive sites to choose
from. Marine life is abundant with Hump Back Whales in season.
Matemo Island has access to around 7 dive sites (including Rush Hour) with a range of depths to
suit different skill levels and even an exciting wreck dive. In any case the sites are rich with beautiful
corals and amazing marine life.
Vamizi Island showcases exciting drop offs and stunning corals on a truly healthy reef system. Dive
sites include one of the best in world, Neptune's Arm, a spectacular coral garden which leads to a
dramatic cliff where you'll see masses of fish. A variety of excellent dive sites cater for all skill levels.
Medjumbe Island - Dive sites around this beautiful island yield an abundance of marine life and
stunning coral reefs. In season you could see Humpback Whales passing by on their annual
migration route. There are about 12 about dive sites, 6 in the north and 6 in the south - here are
some suggestions to begin with:
Cliffs of Insanity (north) is definitely for advanced divers as the depths range from 25 to 40 metres
(up to 131 feet). You'll see plenty of Barracuda and be able to explore lots of ledges and overhangs
at this vertical wall site.
Lauras Leap (north) is a really deep channel and only for advanced divers. Nearby is another dive
site with a vertical wall and plenty of overhangs and ledges which drop down into the depths
below.
Rocha Rocks offers plenty of plant and fish life and can be enjoyed by intermediate divers with
depths of up to 30 metres (98 feet) being possible.
Sambi Sambi has depths of up to 40 metres (131 feet) with a steep drop off of about 80 metres (262
feet) on the eastern edge. This reef can be exposed when there is a low spring tide.
The Edge of Reason is only for advanced divers as there is a vertical wall (up to 25 metres / 82 feet)
which on the southern side leads into the deep Medjumbe Passage.
The Far Side is a sloping reef which can be dived up to 25 metres (82 feet). It's a hard coral reef that
is exposed when there is a high spring tide.
Dive Sites in Vilanculos and Bazaruto
Just off the coast at Vilanculos, The Bazaruto islands lie like pearls in the Indian Ocean and there are
many coral reefs and old ship wrecks to explore.
There are 3 main islands, Bazaruto, Benguerra and Margaruque. Bazaruto Marine National Park is a
protected area and offers superb diving in crystal clear waters away from other divers and boats.
Visibility can be as far as 30 metres (98 feet) especially in the winter months. Marine life is abundant
and you'll encounter Dolphins, a range of Rays, reef sharks, Zambezi Sharks and even Whale Sharks.
This is one of the few places left in the world to see the endangered Dugongs. Sea turtles and
humpback Whales can also be seen in season.
Canyon Deep and Marlin Pinnacles (Vilanculos) is an amazing dive but only for advanced divers
with lots of drift experience. You'll see all the biggies here - an astonishing amount of fish, large
outcrops of coral and lots of colours everywhere. The pinnacles rise up from the deep and the
currents can be strong. The Canyon reaches 33 metres (108 feet) in depth and the Pinnacles just a
bit less than that.
Baluba Reef (Vilanculos) has many small dive sites over an extensive reef and sandy patches in
between. It's a relaxing Open Water level dive reaching up to 16 metres (52 feet) where you'll see
Rays, sea turtles and game fish.
Caves, Ampitheatre and San Sebastian together offer an excellent reef structure with walls, caves
and overhangs for Open Water divers. You'll see plenty of rays, sea turtles and also game fish at the
back of the reef. Depths vary up to 30 metres (98 feet).
Linene Reef lies next to San Sebastian and features interesting coral formations that look like fairy
castles. You'll see pelagic fish and Potato Bass.
Potholes is for advanced divers and can only be dived at low tide. You can explore a series of
potholes and tunnels which host soft corals and marine life. The maximum depth is about 12 metres
(39 feet).
Brindle Bass Ridge is for advanced divers and is a large reef with a depth of 18 metres (59 feet).
You'll see Angel Fish, Snappers and Rubber Lips, reef sharks and Brindle Bass. The Toilet Bowl is a
feature of the reef and lined with brilliant soft corals.
Manta Ray Reef is flat and has a depth of about 15 metres (49 feet) where you can keep a look out
for schools of fish, Green turtles, Clownfish and beautiful anemones. Good for beginners.
Rainbow Runner Reef is great for observing marine life passing through above the sea floor. You
could see Mantas in season as well as Spotted Eagle Rays, Kingfish, Potato and Brindle Bass,
rainbow Runners and Zambezi Sharks. The reef can reach about 25 metres (49 feet) in depth at
spring high tide. Good for advanced divers.
Turtle Ridge you could see game fish such as Barracuda and also sea turtles. The reef is narrow and
reaches depths of 14 metres (45 feet). Good for beginners and photographers.
Greek Temple can reach depths of 18 metres (59 feet) but it is a good dive for all skill levels and
best dived at low tide. Expect a relaxed and scenic experience with plenty of nooks and crannies
sheltering marine life.
South Point is great for beginners and features a shallow rocky reef with corals and lots of crevices,
small caves and boulders with depths of up to 20 metres (59 feet). Divers can spot Kingfish, Lion
Fish and reef sharks.
Zenguelemo Point is home to reef fish, Crocodile Fish, Scorpion Fish and more. The depth reaches
about 21 metres (65 feet) and the site is suitable for advanced divers and up.
Fossil Reef has a lot of fossilised trees coming up from the sea floor at Benguerra and provides
depths of up to 13 metres (65 feet) for Open Water level and up. This is a good spot for taking
pictures of Lion Fish and Moray Eels.
Two-Mile Reef is a flat-topped barrier reef renowned for its fantastic snorkelling at sites such as the
Aquarium as well as exciting dive sites on the outer edge. The dives vary from 6 to 21 metres in
depth (65 feet). Highlights include a variety of hard and soft corals and many schools of reef and
pelagic fish passing through. The reef caters for various skill levels depending on what section is
dived.
Five-Mile Reef is not as popular as Two-Mile Reef but it has an interesting bottom structure and
reaches depths of 10 metres (32 feet). Open water and advanced will enjoy this reef.
Nine-Mile Reef has a 20 metre (59 feet) drop off on the outside slope which can extend the dive to
30 metres (98 feet). Advanced divers with deep experience will see Angel Fish, reef sharks and sea
turtles as well as game fish.
12-Mile Reef is a big reef consisting of 4 sets of ridges, overhangs and large caves which start at 27
metres (88 feet) and drop down to 44 metres (144 feet). This dive is only for advanced divers with
drift experience. It is possible to see Hammerhead and Silvertip Sharks here, also Potato and
Brindle Bass.
Margaruque is easily accessible and popular for snorkelling and also suitable for Open Water level
and up. The depth reaches about 10 metres (32 feet) and becomes the Margruque Express with
exhilarating currents at the change of the tide. The rock reef is right off the island and you can
explore lots of cavities and walls while keeping a lookout for plenty of reef fish including big Brindle
Bass.
Dive Sites in Zavora, Tofo and Barra
Zavora is quite new and exciting, a great diving adventure. Tofo is one of the best
places to swim with Whale Sharks and it has a number of excellent dive sites. Barra
is the place to be for beauty and culture - it shares most of the same dive sites with
Tofo although there are some differences
Zavora
From this great beach you can enjoy excellent reef dives and see Manta Rays, sea turtles as well as
Hump Back Whales in season. Two known reefs you can explore are the inshore reef and deep reef.
Both reefs are very long and many dive sites have yet to be explored. There is also a wreck in
between - the Klipfontein. The ship broke in half when it sunk and both sites offer great dive
opportunities.
The inshore reef system north of Zavora includes White Sands and Red Sands and has amazing
topography with interesting overhangs and swim throughs. Depths vary up to 18 metres (59 feet).
Marine life that can be spotted includes sea turtles and Moray Eels with a variety of sharks
frequenting the cleaning stations.
Deep Reef is for advanced divers only as visibility is changeable and depths reach at least 30 metres
(98 feet) and more. There are multiple dive sites. The reef is full of marine life with huge shoals of
game fish and Manta Ray cleaning stations plus lots of sharks. On calm days you could see a local
highlight, the Frog Fish.
Tofo and Barra
Manta Reef is a world famous for its 3 Manta Ray cleaning stations and dramatic topography, an
ideal location for filming and research. Visibility on this dive is about 20 metres or more (65 feet)
with a depth of 26 metres (85 feet) so it is best suited to advanced divers with drift experience.
Marine life is prolific and therefore it is a very popular site. Further on are Manta Point and its
cleaning station in the depths. Advanced divers will enjoy the gullies, overhangs and ledges.
Praia de Roche has fascinating topography with white sand, large boulders and a maze of nooks
and crannies. You'll see hard and soft corals, tropical fish, Octopus and Morays. This is suitable for
novices and more experienced divers in depths averaging about 10 metres (32 feet).
Krakatoa is fine for Open Water divers in depths of up to 18 metres (59 feet). The reef looks like a
volcano crater and is full of colourful hard and soft corals. This is a good site for swimming with
Whale Sharks, especially in season. Other marine life seen include shoals for reef fish, Nudibranchs,
Octopus and lobster.
Simons Town is an interesting reef with large chimneys of rock and lots of holes and gullies. It's
good for beginners and occasional divers and offers a long, relaxing dive with plenty to see.
Visibility can go as far as 30 metres (98 feet) and the depth is up to 18 metres (59 feet). Keep a look
out for shoals of game fish swimming past and Whale Sharks.
Chamber of Secrets is a very good inshore reef and full of surprises. It has a number of overhangs,
caves and about 6 swim throughs. The reef is shaped like a horseshoe, with a depth of 14 metres
(45 feet) at the top and 19 metres (62 feet) at the bottom. You'll see lots of Rays (different kinds)
and a great variety of other marine life including migrating Whale Sharks in season, it's definitely
worth 2 dives to take it all in.
Clownfish Reef is also great for learners / occasional divers as it is located in Tofo Bay and there is
no current. It is a flat reef with plenty of coral and small tropical fish. The depth is up to 10 metres
(32 feet) with visibility as far as 30 metres (98 feet).
Giants Castle is best for the advanced diver with lots of deep drift experience where depths of
about 25 metres or more (82 feet plus) can be reached. You can explore a big wall and ridge, drop
offs and rock formations. The ridge hosts a rich variety of marine life including Lacy Scorpion Fish
and pristine corals.
The Salon is named because of the amazing quantity of cleaner shrimps and the busy clientele lined
up. It's a relaxing Open Water dive in about 11 metres (36 feet) while exploring stone boulders and
the sandy bottom and spotting Red Reef Lobster, Trumpet Fish and Glassfish.
Mikes Cupboard is a busy reef with an average depth of 15 metres (49 feet). There is a lot to see for
Open Water divers with interesting caves, overhangs, swim throughs and stacked boulders where
all kinds of marine life hide out or pass through. Spot the Seagrass Ghost Pipe Fish, Leaf Fish,
Scorpion Fish and a resident Green Turtle.
Sherwood Forest is accessed by boat from Barra and is a deep dive for advanced divers with drift
experience in the 25 metre depths (82 feet). The site has stunning scenery with a host of different
types of Rays and Moray Eels as well as tropical fish. You'll see a variety of corals, including soft
fleshy corals in different colours and also Sea Sponges. Keep a look out for game fish swimming by.
Lions Den is a great reef for training and reaches 11 metres (36 feet) in depth - a relaxed dive where
learners can see Lion Fish, Plate Coral and lots of small tropical fish.
Estrada is near lighthouse point and has a sandy bottom with stone ledges and is suited to Open
Water divers. Depth is about 8 metres (26 feet) and you'll see many Nudibranch species, Moray Eels
and even a shy White Tip Reef Shark.
Buddies is great for beginners as there is a maximum depth of about 10 metres (32 feet). The reef is
close to shore and quite shallow so also excellent for night dives. This dive is great for finding rare
fish and other interesting creatures if you take the time to look in all the nooks and crannies along
the sand stone plateau.
Anchor Bay is an inshore, flat circular reef composed of rock and a variety of beautiful soft corals
and sponges, and large plate coral. Tropical fish are abundant and notably there are also Manta
Rays here, also in season Whales can be seen. An old ship's anchor gives this reef its name. The
maximum depth is 10 metres (32 feet) so this long, shallow dive is popular for those in training and
occasional divers getting back into it.
Barra Lagoon is for advanced divers with excellent buoyancy control. It's a unique dive near the
mangrove swamps and the star attraction is the seahorses. Dugongs have also been sighted here. If
you are a macro lover, this is for you as there is plenty to see. This is a delicate site and easily
perturbed, hence the buoyancy control.
Barra Express is a sandy channel that can only be dived in spring high tides, so this is good for
advanced divers with drift experience. Average depth is 10 metres (32 feet) and you will spot some
unusual marine life and juvenile species.
Office has 2 cleaning stations, so it's a good place to get a look at the Manta Rays circling round in
turns. The dive depth is between 18 and 27 metres (up to 88 feet) for advanced divers and you'll see
eels and different types of rays and great selection of inquisitive reef fish such as Rubber Lips and
Potato Bass also a variety of sharks. There are plenty of hard and soft corals in lots of shapes and
colours.
Skylight has a sandy bottom, ledges and an interesting play on light. The average depth for
advanced Open Water divers is about 22 metres (72 feet). Keep a look out for Manta, Rays, reef
sharks and Sea Apples.
Coliseum is a great site for Open Water divers in a depth of about 24 metres (78 feet). Explore the
sandy bottom and atmospheric stone ledges where you'll see reef sharks amongst the marine life.
Amazon has a big rock formation, a wall, gullies and crevices with plenty of tropical fish in the
beautiful corals. The dive depth reaches about 28 metres (91 feet). Keep a look out for schools of
fish swimming by such as Barracuda and Grey Stump Nose. Again, big Manta Rays are quite a sight
flying past and also reef sharks. Great for advanced divers with deep drift experience.
Drifters (Buraco do Diabo) is a new, very deep site and only for advanced divers with extensive drift
experience. Depths can reach as far as 40 metres (131 feet) around this a semi-circular wall with
ledges and gullies. Look out for interesting little critters, Rays, reef sharks and Moray Eels.
Northern Mozambique Dive Sites in Nacala Bay
The reefs in northern Mozambique are known to be quite different from those in the south - you'll
see plenty of corals and fish life in these waters which are warm year round. Exciting night dives can
set off directly from the beautiful wide beach.
Here are some suggestions:
Nacala Bay
Bonito Reef has a maximum depth of 32 metres (104 feet) and can be dived according to
experience levels from Open Water and up. There are coral gardens at the start which lead to sandy
banks and rocky outcrops. Tropical fish abound but keep a look out for Leaf Fish, Ribbon Eels and
Anglers.
Stables has a strong current and a depth of up to 34 metres (111 feet), so advanced divers only here.
You'll find some boulders and some sort of freshwater outlet which is like a magnet for marine life.
There are lots of seahorses, Lion Fish, eels and Crocodile Fish amongst others. The Wall is a very
deep dive (up to 50 metres / 164 feet) so only for those with advanced deep diving experience.
There is a slope thick with coral which leads to a wall and swim through. All the big stuff can be
seen in these depths. The Point reaches up to 45 metres in depth (147 feet) and suits an experience
level of Open Water and up depending on how deep you go. You'll see Stingrays, sea turtles and
Groupers while swimming over sloped coral leading to dramatic drop offs.
Pinnacle caters for Open Water divers and up in depths of up to 35 metres (114 feet). You'll find a
circular sloping reef in a deep bay that attracts game fish like Barracuda and also bottom dwellers
like Frog Fish.
Nemos is an excellent shore dive for all levels up to 20 metres (65 feet). The site is a gradual slope
with lots of coral where you'll see fabulous fish varieties - all kinds of Nudibranchs, Triggers, Ghost
Pipe Fish, Frog Fish and more. Great for photography!
Paradise Reef is a great all-rounder for all diver levels. It's a superb coral garden with plenty of fish
life in the shallower areas. You'll see Damsels, Goldies, Chocolate Dips, Crayfish and Boa Snappers
to name a few.
Napala Drop-Off is a prime spot inside the bay and suitable for Open Water and up depending on
the depths dived. Maximum depth is 45 metres (147 feet) amongst huge cliffs where you could see
a Sun Fish.
Baobab Point is really for advanced tech divers in vast depths of up to 90 metres (295 feet) and
beyond following a chain of mountains. This is a likely spot for viewing Sun Fish. Melala and Mutiva
are really unexplored and there has been some stripping of corals going on. The depth is about 18
metres (59 feet) and currents can be strong for drift divers. It's full of reef fish and features shallow
coral gardens, sandy banks and rocky outcrops further down. This can be dived by Open Water
divers and up.
Djidji and Jeppa Bay are for advanced divers in depths of up to 35 metres (114 feet). Djidji is an
extension of Melala and Mutiva, and Jeppa lies opposite it. You'll find beautiful coral gardens, sand
banks and rocky outcrops - Jeppa is particularly special with pristine corals and wonderful visibility.
Relanzapo consists of 2 ledges running parallel to the shore; one is double the depth of the other
(maximum 24 metres / 78 feet in all). It's suitable for advanced divers experienced in strong
currents and open blue diving. Look out for King Mackeral, Wahoo and Tuna while exploring the
rocky outcrops, sandy banks and coral gardens - wonderful visibility in the open.
Southern Mozambique Dive Sites
Ponto Do Ouro, Ponta Malongane Ponta Mamoli, Inhaca Island Whale Shark sightings are very good
especially in season from October to March in the Ponto do Ouro area. Other marine life that can be
seen along this coast include Dolphins, Sharks, rays and Manta Rays, Barracuda, Lionfish, Scorpion
Fish and sea turtles. There are no major rivers emptying into the sea along this stretch of coast, so
the visibility is great with a range of between 25 and 40 metres (up to 131 feet).North of Ponto Do
Ouro, the reefs around Ponta Malongane are quite unexplored, so you are sure to enjoy exciting
dives. Ponta Mamoli is less developed than the other areas; it's further up the coast and quite
excluded with diving on exclusive reefs. Inhaca Island is just off the coast near Maputo and easily
accessed from the capital city by boat or air with great reef diving.
Ponto do Ouro
Atlantis (Lego Land) is a deep dive and only suitable for advanced divers. The average depth is
about 35 metres (114 feet). There are big square boulders, a couple of drop offs and an overhang
before the sandy bottom to explore. Expect to see Eagle Rays, reef sharks and game fish.
Doodles in Ponta Bay has a depth range of up to 18 metres (59 feet) and features caves and sink
holes. It is a good dive for those who have qualified and done some diving at Open Water level.
You'll see Potato Bass, Frog Fish, Dusky Sweepers, Lion Fish and Cleaner Shrimp to mention a few.
Checkers in Ponta Bay is a big horseshoe shaped ridge with a depth of 18 metres (59 feet) that
would suit Open Water divers. You could see Morays, sea turtles, Clownfish in the anemones also
Parrot Fish and Golden Kingfish amongst others.
Steps is also in Ponta Bay and is good for Open Water divers with drift experience. It's a narrow reef
with small caves and overhangs. The average depth is about 15 metres (49 feet). Keep a look out
for schools of fish such as Red Fang Triggers, also Morays and Nudibranchs. This dive leads into
Steve’s Ledge with its plate coral, ledges and gullies where you'll see Clownfish, Trumpet Fish and
Grouper.
Creche in Ponta Bay is suitable for novices and Open Water divers. The average depth is about 11
metres (36 feet) with 2 ridges side by side that can be explored. Marine life is varied and you could
see Chocolate Dips, Paper Fish and Blue Banded Snappers. Bread Loaf is a simple dive reaching
depths of up to 15 metres (49 feet) where you'll see lots of plate coral in the coral garden, reef
sharks in season, Angel Fish and Snappers.
Ponta Malongane
Cloudbreak is a long flat coral reef busy with sharks and game fish plus all the usual suspects seen
on a deep dive. Depths can reach up to 45 metres (147 feet) so this dive is for advanced divers with
deep experience in unpredictable currents.
The 3 Sisters is just off the point and reaches a depth of 26 metres (85 feet). There are 3 big
boulders, an overhang and a cleaning station to have a look for those with advanced Open Water
training. Shrimp life is good and you could also spot Surgeon Fish, Long Nose Hawk Fish and even
Giant Honeycomb Moray.
Aquarium can also be accessed from Ponta do Ouro and offers abundant marine life, corals and a
cleaning station. The topography is rocky and best for advanced Open Water divers able to handle
depths of about 24 metres (78 feet).
Wayne’s World has a great swim through and plenty of coral. You'll see Frog Fish and Potato Bass,
Rays and King Fish to name a few. Depths reach 29 metres (95 feet) so advanced divers only.
Maverick has a huge boulder and there is lots of hard and soft coral to see. Eels are plentiful and
you'll see Frog Fish, Scorpion Fish and Nudibranchs. Depths can reach 28 metres (91 feet) so this is
an advanced dive.
Kevs Ledge is only for advanced divers with good drift experience. There will be slow changes in
depth and multiple levels to adjust to while exploring a series of widely spaced ridges with different
features. Average depth is 24 metres (78 feet). There is a cleaning station and plenty of marine life.
Anchor is wonderful during Whale season as you can hear the sounds they emit. This attractive reef
is full of hidey holes amongst the hard and soft corals. You could spot Yellowback Fusilier, Trigger
Fish and Angel Fish. This is an advanced level dive to 21 metres in depth (68 feet)
Texas is a shallow dive site with an extensive reef and lots of soft coral. You'll find lots of
interesting features and gullies to explore as well as big variety of fish. This is an Open Water Drift
dive with depths of up to 16 metres (52 feet).
Shallow Malongane reaches depths of 17 metres (55 feet) and is suitable for Open Water divers.
The reef runs along the inside of Malongane Bay and features plenty of hard and soft coral with
juvenile fish and Rays hovering over the sandy patches.
Ponta Mamoli
Bass City for advanced divers is wonderful if you want to see plenty of fish. The series of algaecovered rocky outcrops attract an amazing array of marine life including friendly Potato Bass. Other
fish to dazzle you are Devil Fire Fish, Lion Fish, juvenile Boxfish, Harlequin Shrimp and Leopard
Shark to name a few. There are plenty of cleaning stations, some boulders, overhangs and also an
intriguing sandy floor alive with various types of Rays. The average depth is 20 metres (65 feet).
Pinnacles can also be accessed from Ponta do Ouro and Ponta Malongane. It's strictly for advanced
drift divers only with shark encounters and exhilarating depths being the features. The average
depth is 35 metres (114 feet) while exploring the north and south pinnacles. Look out for Pallette
Surgeonfish, Sapphirina, Comb Jellies, Rays, Hammerhead and Zambezi Sharks.
Playground offers an abundant and diverse range of marine life - wonderful for a night dives and
shallow dives in good conditions for Open Water divers. There is a central cave and also other
nooks and crannies. The depth is 12 metres (39 feet) and you could see Fusiliers, Soldierfish and Big
Eye Stumpnose also Honeycomb Stingrays and Sand Sharks, brilliant Nudibranchs as well as hard
and soft corals.
Idols is close to Playground. It has a depth of 15 metres (39 feet) and a number of rocky outcrops
and sand patches which are favoured by Rays. Look out for Blaasops, Pufferfish and Porcupine Fish,
Potato Bass and Red Fang Triggers. Open Water divers will enjoy this dive.
Ampitheatre is a sandy patch ringed round with coral and rocky walls, ledges and little hidey holes.
Look out for Angel Fish, Trumpet Fish and Rays, also Goby and Partner Shrimp. This dive is suitable
for Open Water divers with drift experience in depths up to 19 metres (62 feet) in strong currents.
Deep Purple is a relatively new find and features a long deep rocky reef with ledges and sandy
alcoves teeming with fish such as Rock Salmon, Lizardfish and eels. The maximum depth is 28
metres (91 feet) making this dive suitable for advanced divers with drift experience.
Mushroom features a beautiful coral garden in pristine condition. It's a stunning scenic and shallow
reef for advanced divers with drift experience. You can explore pinnacles, rock formations, gullies
and overhangs in a maximum depth of 14 metres (45 feet). Look out for King Fish and Flame
Goatfish, Painted Rock Lobsters, many anemones and clams.
Paradise is an extensive reef rising out of the sand with coral gardens, rugged features and Cleaner
Shrimp stations. When the current is strong, drift experience is need for Open Water divers in
depths of up to 14 metres (45 feet). Marine life includes Blue Razor Wrasse, Coral Rockcod,
Lemonfish, Honeycombe Moray Eels, sea turtles and Rays
G-Spot is a world class dive with magnificent variations in colour and contrast in 2 amphitheatres.
You'll spot all kinds of Rays, Potato Bass, Sea Goldies, Yellow and Blue Banded Snappers, Scorpion
Fish and Coachman to name a few. This is an advanced Open Water dive best done when there is
little current in the 24 metre depth (78 feet).
Boulders is an impressive coral garden with big boulder shaped rocks and a ship's anchor on the
sandy bottom - not to be missed by advanced Open Water divers. Keep a look out for Longnose
Hawkfish, Malabar Bass and Marbled Electric Rays as well as great varieties of schooling fish in
depths of up to 30 metres (98 feet).
Inhaca Island
This island is a quick hop from Maputo by boat or plane. Enjoy great diving at Inhaca on unspoiled
reefs. You'll see beautiful Staghorn and Plate corals. You could also go shark diving and wreck
diving. Marine life includes Moray Eels, Potato Bass, Kingfish and big schools of Barracuda. You may
even see Whale Sharks and Manta Rays in summer season. Maximum dive depths can reach up to
30 metres (59 feet), but the average is about 18 metres (59 feet).
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Inspirations Travel & Tours
Tel: +27(0)31 266 0030 info@inspirations-travel.co.za
www.africaninspirations.co.za www.inspirations-travel.co.za
9 Kensington Drive, Westville 3629,
Durban, South Africa