Africa and in particular the Indian Ocean islands offer some of the best diving opportunities in the world. The dive sites are often in fantastic condition with unbleached corals. People travel far and wide to come and dive here. We often think of diving as an underwater safari, and many people who love safaris also love diving. Experienced divers have many options to choose from - but with many resorts offering Padi dive courses you can 'test the waters' and even earn your certification while on holiday (our top tip - do the paper qualifications at home first, so that once you arrive, you can get straight on with the practical side!).

Take a look at a few of our favourite destinations for diving.

Mnemba Island - Zanzibar

Located on a private island off the North West tip of Zanzibar, the area is a mecca for dive enthusiasts. And from an all round holiday perspective, it simply doesn't get better than andbeyond Mnemba Island Lodge. The lodge is spectacular in its simplicity and really is a case of Robinson Crusoe barefoot luxury. The lodge rates include 2 dives a day, snorkelling and a multitude of other watersports. Do please note that you are required to have your Padi Certification prior to arrival on the island in order to make full use of the diving opportunities. 

North Island - Seychelles

Arguably the most exclusive address in the Seychelles, as you would expect North Island comes with its own Padi Dive Centre. Expert Seychellois divemasters, with intimate knowledge of the local reefs and the very best dive spots, plus state of the art scuba equipment, make for a memorable dive experience. With only a few presidential villas on the island you are guaranteed exclusivity and privacy.

Mozambique

The waters off Mozambique are exceptional for diving and a must do on many peoples dive lists. The area is known for its whale sharks and dugong – speak to us about getting the timing of your visit right to maximise your chances of seeing these creatures. Daily flights from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport to Vilanculos mean that combining your beach time with time in the Kruger is very doable. Azura Benguerra and White Pearl both have Padi dive centres where experienced divers can explore the impressive reefs and novices can train and receive their Padi certification.

Mauritius

There are some spectacular dive sites around Mauritius, with fantastic balloon corals in the Blue Bay area. The St Regis has a fully equipped watersports centre with dive courses available locally - you can dive in the pool in the morning and in the sea by the afternoon. Night dives are offered by the dive centre at Beachcomber's Royal Palm - or make it a family affair, with introductory scuba courses for children aged 10 and over.