The diving

Mozambique is a natural gem that is only just coming to the forefront of the scuba diving (and surfing) world. It is the ultimate tropical island destination for a scuba diving holiday or a relaxing trip away from home.

To scuba dive in Mozambique is to embark on an underwater adventure through one of the most biodiverse and pristine marine environments on the planet. Here, you can see the ‘big stuff’. This includes dolphins, whale sharks, humpback whales, reef, leopard and hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and marlins - and it does not stop there. The coral reefs in Mozambique are also teeming with life, with many schooling reef fish, moray eels, barracudas, and octopuses to name just a few. A large number of string ray species also reside in these waters, and it is the only place in the world where the smalleye stingray species can be found.

In addition to abundant and diverse underwater life, there are also many different kinds of dive sites, with unique bottom topographies that cater to different levels of scuba divers. Mozambique offers shallower dive sites of 5 to 10 meters for the beginner diver, and deeper dive sites with surges, currents, caves, and swim-throughs for the more experienced diver. Additionally, there are several different sites with manta ray cleaning stations - so you will be sure to observe them no matter the amount of experience you have.

Best time to dive in Mozambique

The best months to dive in Mozambique are between late March and early July. During this time of year, dive sites are not crowded, boat rides are generally calm, the water is warm (3mm wetsuits will suffice), and visibility is the best. This time of the year is when the ‘big stuff’ is still around, and conditions are the most enjoyable.

However we must note, the months of June to October are when the humpback whales migrate into the waters surrounding Mozambique. If you want a chance to swim with these amazing ocean creatures, then this is the best time of year to visit!

Who to dive with

The best dive operator in Mozambique is Liquid Dive Adventures. They are a 5-star PADI IDC center, and also an ECO dive resort located steps away from the sand and the sea in Tofo!

Being an eco-dive resort means that Liquid Dive Adventures prioritises sustainability and eco-initiatives within their establishment and day-to-day operations. They are also a Project AWARE partner and a Shark Guardian dive center. This means their dive certifications help fund and support Project AWARE, an organisation that aims to drive local action for global ocean conservation, and that they act as an ambassador for Shark Guardian, which entails hosting educational presentations about the importance of sharks within the marine ecosystem and their conservation. So if you’re an eco diver looking for an eco diving experience, Liquid Dive Adventures is your number 1 dive shop in Mozambique.

In addition to guided fun dives, Liquid Dive Adventures also offers all PADI courses ranging from Discover Scuba Diving to Rescue Diver, marine conservation specialties, as well as professional development courses such as Divemaster programs, IDCs (Instructor Development Courses), and Staff Instructor training.

Furthermore, Liquid Dive Adventures also provides whale-watching tours. If conditions are right, you could be lucky enough to swim with humpback whales! They have strict codes of conduct when being in the water with the humpbacks, but this is first and foremost to keep you safe and to respect the whales.

Where to stay and eat

Liquid Dive Adventures is an eco dive resort with beach bungalows that are perfect for diving and non-diving guests. With double and twin rooms, AC, private patios, ocean views, hot water showers, and a commitment to sustainability (no single-use plastics and responsible waste management), this is the perfect accommodation for everyone visiting Mozambique.

For the most delicious feed, the HAPPI restaurant at Liquid Dive Adventures is an amazing choice. The only vegetarian restaurant in the area, they aim to reduce their carbon footprint by offering plant-based meals, and also source their ingredients locally and seasonally. An on-site bar named SILLI is also available, as well as a sustainable seafood restaurant named MERI. Here, all the seafood served is sourced from local artisanal fishermen, and does not include seafood such as octopus, reef fish, or prawns that are normally fished using methods that can harm the reef. These establishments aim to provide the ultimate holiday experience with minimal impact on the environment.

Liquid Dive Adventures is your ideal eco dive resort for a tropical and idyllic getaway on the beautiful island of Mozambique.

Photos by Liquid Dive Adventures 

Written by Kayli Wouters

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