Scuba diving in Mozambique

Scuba diving in Mozambique is possible year-round, but seasonal patterns influence visibility, sea state, and megafauna activity. Because many of the country’s signature dive sites are offshore and current-driven, weather and ocean conditions play a larger role here than in more protected reef destinations.

Water temperatures typically range from 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F) throughout the year. The cooler months from June through September bring slightly lower temperatures but often improved visibility and more stable surface conditions. A 3mm to 5mm wetsuit is generally sufficient depending on season and personal preference.

The dry season, from May through October, is widely considered the most stable period for diving. Seas are often calmer, humidity is lower, and visibility on offshore pinnacles can be excellent. This period also coincides with humpback whale migration along the coast.

The warmer, wetter season runs roughly from November through April. Water temperatures increase, and plankton concentrations can attract whale sharks, particularly around Tofo. However, visibility may fluctuate more during this period, and occasional tropical systems can temporarily affect dive schedules.

Manta ray sightings occur throughout much of the year, though conditions and cleaning station activity may vary depending on plankton cycles and current strength. Because Mozambique’s diving is heavily influenced by open-ocean dynamics, trip timing often balances wildlife priorities with preferred sea conditions.

Overall, the most predictable diving conditions are generally found during the dry season, while the warmer months can offer increased chances of whale shark encounters. Mozambique remains a strong year-round destination for divers comfortable in dynamic environments.

Marine life in Mozambique is strongly defined by large pelagic species and seasonal megafauna encounters. Influenced by the warm Agulhas Current flowing down the Mozambique Channel, nutrient-rich waters support a dynamic marine ecosystem where reef biodiversity and open-ocean species overlap.

The southern coastline around Tofo is internationally recognized for manta ray encounters. Cleaning stations on offshore reefs attract both reef mantas and oceanic mantas, making Mozambique one of the more consistent manta destinations in the western Indian Ocean. Sightings are not strictly seasonal, although conditions and plankton concentrations can influence frequency.

Whale sharks are another major highlight, particularly around Tofo and adjacent coastal waters. Encounters are most common during warmer months when plankton blooms increase feeding opportunities. Unlike destinations focused on deep blue-water encounters only, Mozambique offers the possibility of seeing whale sharks relatively close to shore.

Humpback whales migrate along the Mozambican coast between June and October. While interactions are typically surface-based, their presence contributes to the region’s reputation for large marine life activity. Dolphins are frequently encountered offshore, and seasonal sailfish sightings have also been reported.

Reef systems host grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and occasional bull sharks, particularly on deeper offshore pinnacles. Barracuda, giant trevally, tuna, and large schools of jacks are common in current-exposed areas. Coral coverage varies by site, with hard coral structures supporting typical Indo-Pacific reef species including angelfish, butterflyfish, and groupers.

While macro life exists, Mozambique is not primarily positioned as a small-critters destination. The defining underwater experience centers on scale, movement, and the possibility of encountering large marine animals in relatively uncrowded waters.