Mnemba Atoll

The pear-shaped Mnemba Atoll is a protected marine reserve measures about 9 miles (15 kilometers) and is home to an abundance of marine life. While the reef is not as impressive as in other areas of Zanzibar, the wide array of aquatic animals makes it one of the best diving spots in the archipelago. Two rarely seen marine creatures can easily be found here - the Djibouti Spanish dancer (world's largest nudibranch) and the patterned dragon moray eel.

Pemba Island

The beautiful coral reefs in good condition make Pemba Island one of the most popular diving destinations in Zanzibar. The waters of the Indian Ocean have created the perfect conditions for the proliferation of the coral. Divers can see a wide variety of both soft and hard coral that’s home to a multitude of species of marine fauna such as manta rays, eagle rays, garden eels, lionfish, snappers, and many others.

The South Coast

The south coast of Zanzibar is renowned among divers for the dolphin population in the Kizimkazi area. Just make sure to choose an ethical dive center as some boat drivers are known to harass the creatures. There are also chances of seeing sharks and manta rays. Most of the dives here are wall dives with stunning coral growth. The Kizimkazi reef is, in fact, the best dive location on the main island of Unguja.