Zanzibar

East Africa

Informaton and Requirements

Best time to go

Diving is good all year round, but you might not want to go during the long rainy period between March and June. Diving is particularly good in the months of February and March.

Water temperature and visibility

Water temperature averages 27 ° C and a three-millimeter wet-suit is sufficient. Visibility is on average exceptionally good reaching 30 meters and more. It is important to dive on the peak of the high tide as with the turn of the tide visibility can be rapidly reduced.

Climate

Because Zanzibar and Pemba are only 5 degrees south of the equator, they enjoy a tropical equatorial climate. From December to March the weather is relatively hot and dry, while the period between the end of June and October is pleasant. The long rainy season occurs between the months of March and June, when it is not advisable to visit the islands.

Clothing

Rainwear between March and June as well as October and December. Lightweights for coast and highlands. Warmer clothes for evenings in June and July. The highlands are generally cooler and there is snow on the mountains.

Health Requirements

Malaria tablets are recommended at all times. Yellow fever certificates are required and Cholera certificates are recommended if coming from an endemic area. Please note that the Yellow fever vaccination must be had at least 10 days before entering the destination. Failure to meet this requirement may see you spending half of your dive holiday in quarantine at the airport or customs office. Take care to only drink bottled water.

Voltage

220/ 240 Volts AC, 50Hz.

Airport departure tax

Both Tanzanian and Kenyan airport taxes are payable prior to departure as part of the airfare.

Visa Requirements:

TANZANIA - South Africans need visas for Tanzania , as well as all foreign passport holders. These visas can be obtained through the Tanzanian Consulate in Pretoria for a cost of approximately R135-00 per person. Passports need to be valid for 6 months after date of arrival. Take along two passport photo's and letter stating the reason for visit. We can supply you with this. Special arrangements are made for those traveling to Pemba Island from Kenya .

KENYA - South African and most commonwealth countries do not require visas for Kenya .

Miscellaneous

Although all diving certification levels are accepted at Pemba , it is a destination that caters for more advanced divers. Please make sure that you have got your certification card with you along with your logbooks. Resort and diving courses are offered by Manta Reef Camp.