Tanzania, renowned for its vast savannas and iconic wildlife, is also home to some of East Africa’s most spectacular diving sites. Scattered across the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, its islands boast vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, offering an unforgettable experience for divers of all levels.
While the mainland steals the spotlight with its famous national parks, Tanzania’s islands reveal a hidden underwater paradise. Here’s a guide to the top diving destinations in Tanzania:
Despite its remote charm, Mafia Island is a diver’s paradise, offering some of Tanzania’s finest underwater experiences. Swim alongside whale sharks and manta rays while exploring its pristine coral reefs. As Tanzania’s largest marine park, Mafia Island is home to over 400 species of tropical fish, making every dive an adventure.
Less frequented than its neighbor Zanzibar, Pemba Island offers breathtaking diving opportunities. Its reefs are adorned with intricate sea fans, while its deep waters attract various shark species, including the elusive hammerhead.
Located at the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi offers a unique chance to dive alongside migrating whales. The surrounding reefs provide excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced divers.
Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Mnemba Atoll is ideal for divers of all levels. Expect to encounter a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and pristine coral reefs.
Off the coast of Pemba Island, Misali Island offers secluded diving in a pristine marine ecosystem. Encounter turtles, eels, and manta rays in its shallow, crystal-clear waters. Though accommodations are unavailable, a day trip here promises an unforgettable experience.
For an unconventional diving adventure, explore Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-largest and second-deepest lake. Its crystal-clear waters host an array of cichlid species found nowhere else. Combine your dive with a safari in Gombe Stream or Mahale Mountains National Park for a truly immersive experience.
Tanzania’s diverse diving destinations offer something for every adventurer, from vibrant coral reefs to thrilling encounters with marine giants. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, these underwater wonders await. Contact our team today to start planning your unforgettable Tanzanian diving experience!
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Posted on Krista AVerified An amazing trip visiting 2 countries and multiple national parks! My friend and I had an amazing time enjoying multiple national parks, organized by Tanzania Joyous Time. We started our journey in Nairobi, Kenya as I was visiting family there. We were picked up in a residential area of Nairobi which ensured we had a stress-free start to our trip. From there we went to Amboseli national park and then crossed the border into Tanzania. Every park is different in terms of landscape and animals, thus it is worthwhile to visit multiple parks as each is unique. Our drivers and guides, Andrew and Rich, were true professionals. They shared so much wisdom about the flora and fauna, they really enriched our understanding of the wildlife. In addition, we really appreciated that they managed expectations of driving distance, where we would stop, and that we could visit a Maassai village if we were up for it - completely optional. Our guide informed us that a visit would come with a monetary donation to the village, and this transparency is valued as you can then decide if this is something you would like to do. Furthermore, communication with the tour operator went very smooth. We received very quick and professional replies to all of our questions. Communication was clear and transparent prior to the trip, during the trip, and post the trip. They also helped us with some queries that felt more difficult to arrange from abroad, but the tour operator helped us get all the information we needed. We organized our trip within a month of departure - it was very easy to organize and tweak the itinerary based on personal preference.Our accommodation within the safari itinerary was great - we made a couple adjustments and all accommodation lived up to expectation. I would definitely travel with this tour operator again and recommend it for those looking to discover various parks in Tanzania (and potentially Kenya).Posted on Jessica strömbergeVerified We had an unforgettable 2-day safari from Zanzibar, We had an unforgettable 2 day safari from Zanzibar, perfectly arranged by Charz from Tanzania Joyous Time Expeditions. Charz was super helpful from the start he handled our domestic flights, transfers, and answered all our questions promptly.When we landed, we were warmly welcomed by our guide Erick, who was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. We saw lions, elephants, zebras, and even a cheetah.The lodge was comfortable, and we were surprised with a beautiful welcome singing and dancing by the staff that truly touched us. It was a short but magical trip, and we highly recommend Charz, Erick, and the whole Tanzania Joyous Time Expeditions team to anyone looking for a real safari adventure from Zanzibar.Posted on Jakia CVerified Not a reliable company and they don’t deliver the experiences promised We saw an incredible amount of wildlife — lions, elephants, giraffes, even cheetahs — and the Serengeti itself is unforgettable. But sadly, the way this company operates seriously let us down.They don’t run the safaris themselves — they take your money, then place you in a driver’s vehicle and disappear. The guide we had had never even seen the itinerary we were sold. I booked a 4-day safari with full game drives advertised everyday with Days 2 and 3 in the Serengeti. In reality, we arrived at 4:30pm on Day 2 and left by 2pm on Day 3 — barely 24 hours total. On the Day 4 we left Ngorongoro crater at 11am after being promised ‘full day’ safaris. Worse, the company dismissed multiple messages during the trip. I gave them a chance to step in and fix things twice, asking for more game drives — all I got were generic AI-sounding replies and no action. The guide refused to change anything, saying it was his “normal” schedule and he doesn’t know what itinerary i’m talking about. One day, we had to leave cheetahs mid-hunt and rush out of the Serengeti and on the last day the same thing to meet someone else’s flight — a recurring issue, as different people join each day with their own constraints. When I raised this, they were rude and dismissive, saying things like, “Well, on a private safari… you could have done this.” They try and pin the blame on the fact its a shared/ joining safari which is an easy cop out to try and blame you, but when you look around most people on safari are on group tours. I booked a shared safari happily with a clear itinerary in writing in an information pack sent by them. What I got was about 60% of that — with no apology, no refund, just an attempt of a sales pitch after the trip for a taxi and hotel after they had already taken over $600 per person. All their information pack and inclusions are all lies. The animals were amazing — but this company does not deliver what it promises. Safari is amazing but go for someone else who delivers what they promise. Be cautious.Posted on Deny shudVerified They gave me excellent guidance. My bast trip. They gave me excellent guidance. Going with their company made me very happy. I will always remember the safari as the best of my life. I played with the wild animals a lot and shot a lot of photos with them. I'll always remember it. I went on a stunning safari in the highlands.Posted on Curious40854573976Verified 1day trip Korean reviews I went on a 1day trip to Yokogalo. The local guide kept the time well and brought me a spot where the animals of the safari could see. Of course the transportation and lunch were satisfying. Recommend!Posted on Chardonnay AVerified Amazing experience Tanzania Joyous Time team was amazing from planning to all the execution.⭐ They were really thorough and detailed in every step. We were a big group of 10 and they made everything so easy and seamless. It was the best memories of our lifetime. They were very accommodating and made sure we were happy during our entire trip☺️Posted on Ulumbi dVerified Amazing trip to Arusha The views were amazing and service was top notch, must go back next year. My friends and I had a great time, food was also amazing.Posted on Aretas KVerified Safari tour The views were breathtaking. I was able to visit all the touristic places in Arusha and the safari tour was even amazing!!!Posted on RAYMOND SVerified Tantalizing Best trip ever. Mesmerized experience. Made moments that I will forever remember and cherish. The customer service was tailor madePosted on mayaVerified Amazing Tanzania Safari This trip was truly incredible! The safari experience was absolutely amazing, especially spending three days in the Serengeti at Kubu Kuba Tented Lodge. Our guide was fantastic, and all the accommodations on the mainland were outstanding. Although our stay in Zanzibar wasn't exactly what we expected, the beach was beautiful, despite being away from the hustle and bustle. While communication with Tanzania Joyous Time Expedition had its challenges, everything went smoothly overall, and I would definitely consider using their services again.
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