Top Dive Sites

Two-Mile Reef

Description: Two-Mile Reef is one of the most famous dive sites in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Spanning a vast area, this reef is anything but monotonous. Its complex structure comprises ridges, valleys, and a flourishing coral garden, making it a wonderland for divers.

Marine Species: You can expect to encounter a wide variety of marine life including reef sharks, moray eels, and colorful schools of fish like parrotfish and angelfish.

Unique Encounters: The pinnacle of diving at Two-Mile Reef is undoubtedly the occasional sightings of majestic manta rays and whale sharks, especially during their migration seasons.

Photography: The ample marine species and the vibrant coral formations offer a plethora of underwater photography opportunities, making it a paradise for photographers.

Suitability: This site is suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. The reef’s varied depths provide opportunities for new divers to gain experience while offering challenging dives for seasoned enthusiasts.

San Sebastian

Description: Situated on the southern tip of the archipelago, San Sebastian is renowned for its dramatic underwater landscapes featuring sheer drop-offs, canyons, and overhangs. The site offers a dramatic mix of terrains that can keep divers enthralled for hours.

Marine Species: Here, you’ll find green turtles, leopard sharks, and a myriad of pelagic species that frequent the open waters, including trevallies and barracudas.

Unique Encounters: San Sebastian is one of the best places in the archipelago for encounters with humpback whales, especially between July and November when they come to the region to breed.

Photography: Given its clear waters and the presence of large marine animals, San Sebastian provides some of the best conditions for wide-angle photography.

Suitability: Due to the depth and currents, this site is best suited for advanced divers who can safely navigate these conditions.

Manta Reef

Description: True to its name, Manta Reef is renowned for its frequent manta ray sightings. Located off the western side of the archipelago, this site features a series of cleaning stations where mantas come to rid themselves of parasites.

Marine Species: Apart from manta rays, the reef houses a thriving community of reef fish including lionfish, butterflyfish, and nudibranchs.

Unique Encounters: The cleaning stations are the highlight of the dive as they offer divers a rare chance to observe the symbiotic relationships between mantas and smaller fish such as cleaner wrasses.

Photography: This site is a dream for macro photographers due to the abundance of small marine creatures. Wide-angle shots of gliding manta rays against the reef backdrop are also quite spectacular.

Suitability: Manta Reef is suitable for both intermediate and advanced divers. While the site offers great visibility and moderate currents, the depth and marine traffic may pose challenges for beginners.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: The Bazaruto Archipelago offers a tropical climate, meaning water temperatures are usually warm year-round. Expect temperatures between 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months of July and August and up to 29°C (84°F) in peak summer months like January and February. This makes it ideal for extended dives without needing thick wetsuits.

Visibility: Generally, underwater visibility in the Bazaruto Archipelago is excellent, ranging from 15 to 30 meters (49 to 98 feet). However, visibility can vary depending on weather conditions, plankton blooms, and local runoff, particularly after heavy rains. During the dry season, visibility tends to be at its peak, offering crystal-clear waters ideal for photography and exploring intricate reef systems.

Currents and Tides: Currents in the archipelago can be moderate to strong, depending on the dive site and time of year. Sites like Two-Mile Reef and Manta Ray Reef experience stronger currents, making them suitable for more experienced divers. Tidal changes can affect water movement significantly, so it’s essential to plan your dives around the tide charts to ensure optimal conditions. Drift dives are common in certain areas, providing an exhilarating ride along the reefs.

Safety Tips: Always dive with a local guide familiar with the sites to navigate currents and ensure a safe dive experience. Use a surface marker buoy (SMB) to signal your position to boat traffic. Avoid touching or disturbing marine life, as some species may be fragile or dangerous. Stay hydrated, apply reef-safe sunscreen, and adhere to safe diving practices, including proper ascent rates and safety stops. Given the variability in currents, proactive dive planning and awareness are crucial.

Regulations: The Bazaruto Archipelago falls under a marine national park, meaning strict regulations are in place to protect the delicate ecosystem. Ensure you have the necessary permits for diving, and always follow guidelines set by local authorities. Be mindful of no-take zones where fishing and collecting marine life are prohibited. Respect protected species, including various corals, turtles, and other marine fauna. Dive operators are well-versed in these regulations and can provide comprehensive briefings before your dives.