Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
COSTS & COURSES
Costs are fairly uniform, with Pemba and Mafia island slightly pricier than elsewhere along
the coast. Expect to pay from US$375 for a four-day PADI open water course, from about
US$45 to US$75 for a single-/double-dive package, and from about US$50 for a night
dive. Most places discount about 10% if you have your own equipment, and for groups.
In addition to open water certification, many operators also offer other courses, including
Advanced Open Water, Medic First Aid, Rescue Diver and speciality courses, such as un-
derwater photography.
Most dive operators also offer snorkelling. Equipment rental costs US$5 to US$15; when
you're selecting it pay particular attention to getting a good mask. Most of the best snor-
kelling sites along the coast are only accessible by boat. Trips average US$20 to US$50 per
person per half-day, often including a snack or lunch.
WHERE TO DIVE
Generally speaking, Zanzibar is known for the corals and shipwrecks offshore from Stone
Town, and for fairly reliable visibility, high fish diversity and the chance to see pelagics to
the north and northeast. While some sites are challenging, there are many easily accessed
sites for beginning and midrange divers.
Unlike Zanzibar, which is a continental island, Pemba is an oceanic island located in a
deep channel with a steeply dropping shelf. Because of this, diving tends to be more chal-
lenging, with an emphasis on wall and drift dives, though there are some sheltered areas for
beginners, especially around Misali island. Most dives are to the west around Misali, and
to the north around the Njao Gap.
Mafia offers divers excellent corals, good fish variety including pelagics, and uncrowded
diving, often from motorised dhows.
The far south, in Mnazi Bay-Rovuma Estuary Marine Park, is offbeat, with still-unex-
plored areas. Also offbeat is Lake Tanganyika, which offers crystal-clear waters and excel-
lent snorkelling.
Wherever you dive, allow a sufficient surface interval between the conclusion of your
final dive and any onward/homeward flights. According to PADI recommendations, this
should be at least 12 hours, or more than 12 hours if you have been doing daily multiple
dives for several days. Another consideration is insurance, which you should arrange be-
fore coming to Tanzania. Many policies exclude diving, so you'll probably need to pay
a bit extra, but it's well worth it in comparison to the bills you will need to foot should
something go wrong.
Choosing an Operator
When choosing a dive operator, quality rather than cost should be the priority. Consider the
operator's experience and qualifications; knowledgeability and competence of staff; and
