Diving in Mombasa: Best Time, Sites, Tips, and More

Mombasa, nestled by the Indian Ocean in Kenya, isn't just about its history – it's also a fantastic place for diving adventures. Diving in Mombasa means exploring vibrant coral gardens and meeting all sorts of sea creatures, from graceful turtles to colourful fish. The city's popularity for diving comes from the blend of its coastal charm and the exciting underwater life. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, Mombasa offers a perfect mix of history and marine wonders for an unforgettable experience in the Indian Ocean.

What to Expect from the Marine Life in Mombasa?

Mombasa is a haven for marine life, thanks to Kenya's strong commitment to wildlife preservation, boasting 33 reserves, including five marine national parks along the coastline. Divers in Mombasa can expect near-pristine reefs buzzing with a diverse array of fish and invertebrates.

The underwater world offers exciting encounters with seasonal visitors like manta rays and whale sharks, as well as green turtles, leopard and whitetip reef sharks, Napoleon wrasses, barracuda, and playful dolphins.

Exploring the reefs unveils a vibrant spectacle of marine life, from schools of blue-line and yellow snappers to sweetlips, blue-spotted stingrays, moray eels, pufferfish, surgeonfish, trumpet and cornetfish, sergeant majors, garden eels, regal and emperor angelfish, soldierfish, crocodile fish, scorpionfish, pipefish, octopus, mantis shrimp, and more.

Dive sites offer diverse experiences with fringing reefs, drop-offs, rocky areas, ledges, pinnacles, caves, deeper locations, and intriguing wrecks. In Mombasa, every dive promises an immersion into the captivating world of marine life, showcasing Kenya's dedication to preserving its extraordinary underwater ecosystems.

Best Time to Go Diving in Mombasa

Diving in Mombasa is a good idea all year. The weather stays warm, with temperatures ranging from 29-34°C (84-93°F), making it a comfy tropical dive.

The water isn't chilly either, ranging from 25.5-29°C (78-84°F). You won't need more than a 3 mm suit, even during cooler times. It's pretty much like diving in a warm bath.

It does rain throughout the year, but April, May, October, and November see more rain. If you prefer dry weather, January through March is the driest time, giving you more sunny days for diving.

Underwater visibility is usually good, around 15-30 meters (50-100 feet). Just keep in mind that seas get a bit rough from April to mid-September, and visibility might drop in July and August.

If you're excited about marine life, whale sharks and manta rays show up from November to February. Humpback whales make an appearance between July and October.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned diver, Mombasa has spots for everyone. Some places have strong currents, but there are also spots suitable for those just starting out. So, whenever you decide to dive in, Mombasa promises a fantastic underwater experience.

Marine Reserves in Mombasa

In Mombasa's coastal beauty, there are three fantastic places for underwater adventures: Mombasa Marine Park, Diani Chale Marine National Reserve, and Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park. These spots not only look stunning but are also packed with diverse marine life, making them perfect for divers.

1. Mombasa Marine Park: Close to Mombasa, this park is a great spot for all kinds of divers. With clear waters and lively coral reefs, it's an ideal place for both new and experienced divers to enjoy various fish species.
2. Diani Chale Marine National Reserve: Famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs, this reserve offers a calm and immersive diving experience. The abundant marine life here makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful underwater adventure.
3. Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park: A bit further south but worth the trip, Kisite Mpunguti is known for its clear waters and lively coral formations. It's a protected area where you can encounter dolphins and sea turtles, creating an exciting diving experience.

These Marine Reserves not only help protect marine life but also provide a chance for everyone, from beginners to experienced divers, to explore the incredible underwater world off Mombasa's shores.

10 Best Diving Sites in Mombasa:

Here is a list of the best sites for diving in Mombasa:

1. MV Dania Wreck: A purposely sunk Danish cargo ship, MV Dania is a playground for marine life, featuring easy-to-explore sections with sponges, lionfish, and more.

Depth: 12-32 meters / 40-105 feet
Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers.

2. Lobster Bank: Close to MV Dania, Lobster Bank is a hotspot for lobsters, offering an enjoyable dive for all levels.

Depth: 20 meters / 68 feet
Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers.

3. The Pinnacles: Known for its pinnacles, this site showcases flatworms, nudibranchs, and various fish species. Experienced divers will appreciate the potential for strong currents.

Depth: 23-40 meters / 78-136 feet
Difficulty Level: Experienced level.

4. Shark Point: A slope with ledges leading to a sand flat, Shark Point is home to whitetip reef sharks, turtles, and more. Suitable for all levels.

Depth: 12-25 meters / 40-83 feet
Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers.

5. Stingray City: South of Shark Point, this area features blue-spotted stingrays and is accessible to divers of all levels.

Depth: 8-22 meters / 25-73 feet
Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers.

6. MFV Funguo: A sunken tuna trawler, MFV Funguo is an artificial reef teeming with marine life. Recommended for experienced divers.

Depth: 22 meters / 73 feet
Difficulty Level: Experienced level.

7. The Wall: South of Mombasa Marine Park, The Wall offers a rich display of marine life, suitable for experienced divers.

Depth: 35 meters / 116 feet
Difficulty Level: Experienced level.

8. Birthday Reef: Located south of Mombasa Marine Park, Birthday Reef features vibrant corals and is suitable for experienced divers.

Depth: 25-50 meters / 83-170 feet
Difficulty Level: Experienced level.

9. Angie’s Place: Situated on the inner reef, Angie’s Place is known for macro critters and is perfect for night dives, accessible to all levels.

Depth: 11 meters / 38 feet
Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers.

10. Globe Star Wreck: A cargo shipwreck encrusted with corals, Globe Star Wreck is suitable for all levels of divers.

Depth: 8 meters / 25 feet
Difficulty Level: Suitable for all divers.

12 Tips for Scuba Diving in Mombasa:

1. Best Dive Seasons: Dive in Mombasa during dry months from January to March and July to October for clear waters and great marine life encounters.
2. Go with Local Guides: Choose experienced local guides who know Mombasa's dive spots well to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.
3. Pack Smart: Bring essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and comfy swimwear. Don't forget your dive certification card.
4. Safety First: Follow dive operators' safety rules, check your gear before each dive, and stick to dive plans.
5. Protect Coral Reefs: Keep a safe distance from coral and marine life to preserve Mombasa's delicate ecosystems.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink water to stay hydrated in Mombasa's warm weather.
7. Gear Check: Before diving, make sure your scuba gear is in good condition.
8. Emergency Awareness: Learn local emergency procedures and know the location of the nearest decompression chamber.
9. Trust Reputable Operators: Dive with trusted local operators who prioritize safety and environmental conservation.
10. Weather Watch: Keep an eye on local weather conditions for safe diving.
11. Explore Diverse Sites: Dive into Mombasa's variety of sites, from wrecks to coral reefs.
12. Respect Local Rules: Follow local customs and rules to support sustainable diving in Mombasa.

Diving in Mombasa is an incredible adventure, offering stunning scenery and diverse marine life. Whether you're exploring shipwrecks, vibrant coral reefs, or swimming with fascinating sea creatures, Mombasa's underwater world is a true marvel. With its warm waters and rich marine ecosystems, Mombasa is a perfect destination for all levels of divers, promising unforgettable moments beneath the ocean's surface.