The Indian Ocean off Africa's tropical coast has an incredible variety and quality of marine life. There are manta rays and whale sharks, five species of turtle, over 400 species of fish, endless tropical coral reefs and even the occasional shy dugong. However, if you're a keen diver or snorkeller, then choose carefully where you go. Several of Expert Africa's team are keen divers, and we'll always be happy to advise from our personal experience. The main choices are:

Diving and snorkelling holidays in Zanzibar

There are sites for a few days' diving and/or snorkelling within reach of most of Zanzibar, although two areas stand out for the quality of the snorkelling and diving. The reef surrounding Mnemba Island is superb, if often very busy; quick access to the best spots is another reason to stay at Mnemba Island Lodge.

Meanwhile, the reefs of Zanzibar's little-visited south-west can be good and you'll usually have them to yourself. Guided snorkelling trips from Chumbe Island Lodge showcase a world-class variety of colourful coral, whilst Fumba Beach Lodge has particularly good access to the excellent reefs of the Menai Bay Conservation Area. (See more of our best diving and snorkelling holiday retreats in Zanzibar… )

Snorkelling and diving trips to Tanzania's other islands

The sheltered Chole Bay within Mafia Archipelago's marine park makes a superb place to snorkel and to learn to dive, whilst more experienced divers come back here for spectacular wall dives outside the bay, featuring larger pelagic fish including the occasional shark. Further north, Pemba Island also has some first-class reefs with excellent snorkelling and shallow dives, whilst its deeper sites attract experienced divers who are confident with strong currents. (Read more about the Mafia Archipelago and Pemba Island here…)