

Best for beginner divers, 12-22m, boat entry, mild current.
Shimba Hills is an underwater valley located off Pemba Island, Tanzania, characterised by gently sloping coral hills. The site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling, with depths ranging from 12 to 22 metres and an average depth of 12 metres. Conditions are generally calm with mild currents, and visibility typically fluctuates between 10 and 30 metres. Access to the site is by boat only. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from 26C to 29C. It is a well-suited location for beginners looking for a relaxed experience.
-4.87950, 39.67880
The site features less current during certain moon phases.
Accessible via boat excursion from the dive center in Mkunguni, Pemba.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-22m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-29°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Dec
Yes, the site features mild currents and calm conditions, making it appropriate for beginner divers and snorkellers.
The depth at Shimba Hills ranges from 12 to 22 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres.
Yes, the site is suitable for snorkelling and holds a rating of 3 out of 5.
Access to this reef site is by boat only.
Diving at Shimba Hills in Pemba North requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Shimba Hills in Pemba North. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Shimba Hills in Pemba North are January, February, March, July, August, September, October, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Shimba Hills in Pemba North typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Shimba Hills in Pemba North typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.