Destinations
Mozambique
A top African destination for its beautiful coastline, rich culture, and exceptional diving spots. From the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago to the pristine coral reefs and marine reserves, Mozambique is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a mix of marine encounters and cultural experiences.
A Frontier Diving Destination in Africa

Mozambique, located on the southeastern coast of Africa, offers an unparalleled diving experience along its 2,700-kilometer (1,700 mile) coastline on the Indian Ocean. Nestled in the Mozambique Channel, its warm tropical waters support diverse marine ecosystems and create ideal diving conditions year-round. Unlike popular diving spots like Egypt, Thailand, or Indonesia, Mozambique remains relatively unknown – a frontier destination largely undiscovered by the masses. Here, it’s rare to see another boat at your dive site.— Mmost of the time, it’s just you and the underwater world. The remote nature of these dive sites keeps diving in Mozambique intimate and adventure-driven.
Year-Round Diving: Warm Waters, Warm Winters, and High Biodiversity

The Mozambique Current
Mozambique’s waters are warmed by the Mozambique Current, which flows from north to south. This current is an extension of the South Equatorial Current, originating in the warm tropical waters near the equator and driven by trade winds toward northern Mozambique. It flows down the Mozambique Channel, between Madagascar and the Mozambican coastline. This steady flow of warm water keeps water temperatures between 20°C and 30°C year-round, promoting coral growth and supporting a wide variety of species, including whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, other sharks, and vibrant tropical reef fish.
Tropical Climate
Mozambique’s extensive coastline spans two major climate zones; subtropical in the extreme south and tropical in the center-north.
- Subtropical Climate (South): Southern Mozambique, including diving destinations like Ponta do Ouro, Inhaca, and Tofo, experiences a mild subtropical climate. Winters are cool, yet comfortable, making diving accessible year-round.
- Tropical Climate (Center-North): Center-Northern Mozambique enjoys a consistent tropical climate, with warmer air and water temperatures year-round. This includes destinations like Vilanculos, Bazaruto, Nampula, Nacala, Pemba, the Primeiras e Sugundas, and the Quirimbas Archipelago.
Two Seasons
Mozambique experiences two main seasons that influence air and water temperatures:
- Wet Season (October to March): Equivalent to our “summer,” this season features higher temperatures, more rainfall, and increased humidity, leading to warmer water temperatures. While visibility near rivers and estuaries may be reduced due to runoff, diving conditions remain excellent in most areas.
- Dry Season (April to September): This is the equivalent of our “winter.” The dry season brings cooler, drier months with less rainfall, which improves visibility, especially away from river mouths and estuaries. Water temperatures drop slightly during this time.
In the south’s subtropical region, winters (April to October) are mild, with daytime air temperatures averaging around 25°C (~80°F) and water temperatures in the low to mid 20s (70-80°F). Summers (November to March) are warmer, with both air and water temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (80-90°F).
In the north’s tropical region, daytime air temperatures typically exceed 30°C (90°F), dropping slightly below 30°C (90°F) during winter. Water temperatures stay in the high 20s (80-90°F), nearing 30°C (90°F), except during the mid dry season (June to October), when they dip closer to 25°C (80°F).
Together, the warm currents, mild winters, and rich marine biodiversity, ensure that Mozambique stands out as an ideal year-round diving destination.
Marine Life

Mozambique’s waters are home to an extraordinary range of marine species, making it one of the most biodiverse diving destinations in the Indian Ocean. From colorful coral reefs to massive pelagic creatures, the variety of marine life offers divers the chance to encounter everything from vibrant tropical fish to gentle giants. Key megafauna species include sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, humpback whales, dugongs, and a wide array of Indian Ocean reef fish.
Sharks
Mozambique is a hotspot for shark species, including reef sharks, hammerheads, bull sharks (Zambezi), and tiger sharks. In southern Mozambique, sharks, particularly bull sharks, are more common during the warmer months of the wet season, migrating to warmer northern regions during the winter. An exception is the ragged-tooth shark, which migrates from South Africa to southern Mozambique during the cold South African winter for pregnant females to gestate in warmer waters.
Whale Sharks
One of Mozambique’s most iconic species is the whale shark, the largest fish in the ocean. These gentle giants are frequently seen in southern areas, especially around Tofo Beach. As filter-feeders, whale sharks are best encountered while snorkeling, as they feed on plankton near the surface. Divers often have the chance to snorkel with them while traveling to or from their dive sites or during surface intervals.
Manta Rays
Mozambique is also home to the spectacular manta ray, a large filter-feeder often seen at “cleaning stations” on coral reefs, where smaller fish rid them of parasites. These graceful creatures are spotted mainly in Tofo and the Bazaruto Archipelago. Their massive wingspans and fluid movements make them a favorite among divers.
Stingrays
Stingrays are frequently seen in Mozambique’s coastal waters. Notable species include the small eye stingray, the largest stingray species in the world, often seen around Tofo, and the giant and bow-mouth guitarfish, a ray-like species with a more elongated body. Other large ray species found here include the round ribbontail ray, honeycomb whiprays, and pink whiprays, adding to the region’s rich marine diversity.
Stingrays
Stingrays are frequently seen in Mozambique’s coastal waters. Notable species include the small eye stingray, the largest stingray species in the world, often seen around Tofo, and the giant and bow-mouth guitarfish, a ray-like species with a more elongated body. Other large ray species found here include the round ribbontail ray, honeycomb whiprays, and pink whiprays, adding to the region’s rich marine diversity.
Sea Turtles
Mozambique’s beaches are vital nesting grounds for sea turtles in the Indian Ocean. Five of the seven species – leatherback, loggerhead, green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles—are found along the coastline.
Humpback Whales
Between June and October, divers and boaters can witness the humpback whale migration. These majestic creatures travel from Antarctica, through Mozambique, to the warm waters of the equator to breed and calve. Humpbacks are often seen breaching and tail-slapping as they teach their young vital survival skills. During the height of the season, you’re almost guaranteed to see whales from your boat on the way to and from your dives. If you’re really lucky, you might even spot one cruising by you underwater while on a dive – an unforgettable experience.
Dugongs
Mozambique hosts the largest population of dugongs in East Africa, with an estimated 300 individuals. These shy, endangered marine mammals are relatives of the manatee, known for their gentle nature and resemblance to mythical mermaids. Dugongs primarily graze on seagrass in the Bazaruto, Primeiras e Segundas, and Quirimbas Archipelagos, making them most visible in shallow coastal waters. Unfortunately, dugongs face threats from habitat loss, bycatch, and illegal hunting, making them a rare and extra special sight for divers.
Tropical Indian Ocean Reef Fish
Beyond its large marine life, Mozambique’s diverse coral reefs, featuring a mix of hard and soft corals, support an astonishing array of reef fish and invertebrates. Over 1,200 species of fish thrive in these vibrant ecosystems, including wrasses, parrotfish, butterflyfish, snappers, sweetlips, surgeonfish, and groupers. The reefs are also home to invertebrates such as nudibranchs, anemones, octopuses, shrimp, giant clams, and lobsters, creating a biodiverse ecosystem vital to ocean health and a haven for divers interested in marine conservation and exploration.
Key Marine Protected Areas

Mozambique boasts several important Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), making it a vital conservation region as well as a premier diving destination. These MPAs are home to a wide variety of ecosystems, from coral reefs and seagrass beds to deep-sea canyons and coastal forests, ensuring the protection of Mozambique’s rich biodiversity.
Maputo National Park
Located in southern Mozambique’s Maputo Province, near the border with South Africa, Maputo National Park seamlessly blends terrestrial and marine ecosystems, offering a unique “beach and bush” experience. The park stretches along the coastline from Inhaca and Portuguese Islands to Ponta do Ouro and also includes the hinterland, formerly known as the Maputo Special Reserve or Elephant Reserve. It spans a total area of 1,718 km² (660 sq mi.), including 678 km² (~260 sq mi.) of marine environments. This diverse mix of marine and coastal ecosystems creates a rich mosaic of habitats, including beaches, bays, savannahs, grasslands, forests, freshwater lakes, floodplains, and rivers – all of high conservation value.
The marine section is home to various habitats, including sandy beaches, coastal dunes, mangroves, seagrass beds, rocky reefs, coral reefs, and estuaries. Key species include marine mammals such as whales, dolphins, turtles, and sharks, along with large fish species like the potato grouper and brindle grouper. The area also boasts the largest aggregation of giant trevally ever recorded. Conservation status and effective protection measures have led to noticeable increases in fish populations, making it an exceptional destination for diving.
On land, the terrestrial component of the park hosts a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a variety of antelopes. Nicknamed the “Elephant Coast,” Maputo National Park is one of the few national parks in the world that uniquely combines both land and ocean ecosystems and is the only place in the world where whales and elephants meet.
Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, located off the coast of Vilanculos in Inhambane Province, encompasses a stunning seascape that includes five islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina, and Bangue. The park spans a total area of 1,430 km² (~550 sq mi.). The park protects a diverse range of habitats, including sandy beaches, coastal dunes, mangroves, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and deep-sea canyons. Notable species such as the dugong, sharks, manta rays, turtles, dolphins, bill fish, and the sand oyster thrive in these waters.
Primeiras and Segundas Islands Environmental Protection Area
As the largest coastal Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Africa, the Primeiras and Segundas Islands Environmental Protection Area spans the northern Zambezia and Nampula provinces, covering 10,409 km² (approximately 4,017 sq mi). The area is made up of 12 islands, including the Primeiras and Segundas island groups. This MPA includes a vast array of habitats such as sandy beaches, mangroves, seagrass beds, coral reefs, estuaries, seamounts, and ridges. Key species here include turtles, dolphins, and seabirds.
Quirimbas National Park
The Quirimbas National Park, located in the northernmost Cabo Delgado Province near the Tanzanian border, is a sanctuary for some of the region’s most pristine and untouched marine environments. It includes 32 islands within the Quirimbas Archipelago. The park, covering a total area of 9,130 km² (~3,500 sq mi.), of which 1,185 km² (~450 sq mi.) is marine, was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2018. The park’s habitats range from sandy beaches and coral reefs to mangroves, rocky shores, seagrass beds, and deep-sea ridges. Unique species found here include dolphins, turtles, the rare coconut crab, and a variety of seabirds.
Key Diving Destinations

Mozambique offers a range of dive hubs, from well-developed tourism spots to remote, unexplored frontiers. While dive centers are spread across the coastline, some locations have evolved into tourism hubs with easier access, more accommodation options, restaurants, and other nature-based activities. Here’s a breakdown of the key diving destinations:
Ponta do Ouro and Tofo Beach
These are Mozambique’s most popular and developed diving destinations, both located in the south of the country. Ponta do Ouro is famous for thrilling shark dives, including encounters with reef and hammerhead sharks. Tofo Beach is a global hotspot for whale sharks and manta rays, offering both beginner-friendly and advanced dive opportunities. With easy access by road or plane, both destinations offer a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and activities, making them more affordable and accessible to a variety of travelers. Despite their popularity, they remain small beach towns, preserving their charm and laid-back atmosphere.
Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelago
Also located in the south, Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelago offer a more upscale diving experience. While still developed, there are fewer dive centers compared to Ponta do Ouro and Tofo. Most of the diving and activities are centered around the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, making accommodation and diving more expensive. This destination is ideal for travelers with a higher budget, those looking for a luxury or romantic getaway, or divers who have already explored the more popular sites in Mozambique. The stunning coral reefs, clear waters, and secluded nature of Bazaruto make it perfect for a more intimate diving experience.
Frontier Diving in the South
Inhaca Island, just a 30-kilometer boat ride from Maputo, offers a unique frontier diving experience. Once a popular diving spot, Inhaca is now being revitalized as an affordable and easily accessible destination from the capital. The island features diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves, and is home to several shipwrecks. Inhaca also hosts the Marine Biology Station and Marine Biology Museum, established in 1951, showcasing an incredible collection of marine specimens. The Maputo Dive Center has partnered with the station to develop a community-run dive center, offering diving, snorkeling, and kayaking across the island’s ecosystems. Inhaca is an ideal addition to any southern Mozambique dive trip, perfectly complementing visits to Ponta do Ouro or Tofo.
Frontier Diving in the North
The northern regions, including the Quirimbas Archipelago, Mocímboa da Praia, Nacala, and Mozambique Island, are true frontier diving destinations. These locations are harder to access, typically requiring more expensive travel arrangements, and have fewer dive centers, accommodation options, and activities. However, for the experienced and adventurous diver, the north offers uncrowded dive sites, pristine coral walls, and unique experiences like historic shipwreck dives or night diving. These destinations, including the Primeiras e Segundas Archipelago, are perfect for those seeking a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure or specific diving experiences not available in the more developed south.
Diving Considerations

Diving in Mozambique offers unique conditions that divers should be aware of, from surf launches and double tank dives to selecting the right wetsuit.
Surf Launches
Most dive sites in Mozambique are accessed by boat, using semi-rigid inflatables. In certain dive destinations, particularly Ponta do Ouro and Tofo, surf launches are required. This involves launching the boats directly from the beach, through the breaking waves, which adds an exciting element to the dive. However, many other locations are sheltered by bays or islands, where surf launching is not necessary.
Double Tank Dives
Some of Mozambique’s most attractive dive sites are located farther from the coast, making them ideal for double tank dives. A double tank dive is when divers bring two cylinders and conduct two dives without returning to shore in between. Between dives, a surface interval is taken, during which a snack is usually served. In certain areas, such as Tofo, this break may include an ocean safari, where the group scans the surface for marine life like whale sharks and manta rays before the second dive.
Wetsuit Recommendations
Wetsuit selection in Mozambique varies by region and season. A 5mm full wetsuit is the best all-around choice, and most dive centers across the country provide this option. However, if you have your own gear, here are some recommendations:
Southern Mozambique:
- Summer (Wet Season, November to March): A 5mm full wetsuit is typically sufficient, but during peak summer, you may prefer a shorty wetsuit or a 3mm suit, or a combination of the two, for added comfort on hotter days.
- Winter (Dry Season, April to October): A 5mm full wetsuit is recommended, but during peak winter or for double tank dives, wearing a sleeveless vest (with or without a hood) underneath may offer extra warmth. Most divers, however, find the 5mm suit adequate on its own.
Northern Mozambique:
The waters in the north stay warm year-round. A 5mm full wetsuit will keep you comfortable at any time. During the summer months, you may find a shorty or 3mm wetsuit, or a combination of the two, more comfortable.