Africa has some of the best scuba diving in the world

Africa is blessed with abundant wildlife. Everyone knows about the Big 5 and the gorillas, but not everyone considers the life that lies off the continent’s coast. There are plenty of world-class scuba diving sites all around Africa.

One of the most popular destinations is Mozambique, which not only has varied scuba diving sites but has the added advantage of being affordable. After exploring wrecks and reefs and gazing in wonder at the vibrant colour beneath the waves, you can sit on the beach and enjoy the freshest, cheapest seafood you’re likely to find anywhere in the world.

Other obvious dive sites are in the Seychelles and Mauritius, but have you thought about scuba diving in Kenya?

Kenya’s coast caters to all kinds of divers. There are numerous centres and qualified instructors offering beginner scuba diving courses; while more experienced divers can book a trip with one of the many tour operators. Special treats include wreck dives, reef dives and abundant marine life, including turtles, eels, sharks, coral fish and tuna. You can dive in Kenya throughout the year but the best time is between October and April.

Zanzibar is also a perennial scuba diving favourite. The best diving sites can be found in the northern parts of the island and the best times to dive is between September and October when divers have the prospect of bumping into some humpback and sperm whales.

Pemba Island is just a little way nort

h of Zanzibar and is an equally awe-inspiring scuba diving destination. Aside from the pristine beaches and friendly folk you can duck beneath the waves and visit giant barracuda, whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, manta rays and dolphins.

Madagascar is an under-rated scuba diving destination outshone by its better known rivals – Seychelles, Zanzibar and Mauritius. So many people don’t know that it contains the largest continuous reef in the world. As with its land animals, a great junk of the marine life is endemic to Madagascar’s waters, but you can also see five different turtle species, 56 types of shark, over 1000 species of bony fish and 34 types of cetaceans.