

Best for beginner divers, 7-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Mbwangawa is a drift dive site located off the coast of Zanzibar West and Stone Town. The reef slopes between 7 and 18 metres and features a topography of hard coral bommies, plate corals, and soft corals. Divers typically spend 50 minutes exploring the area, which is suitable for beginners due to the mild currents. Access to the site is by boat only. Species recorded around this area include the leaf scorpionfish, peacock mantis shrimp, emperor angelfish, giant frogfish, and various nudibranchs. Divers should be aware of sharp coral present on the reef.
-5.70665, 39.30719
Deploy SMBs early during the safety stop as current strength can carry divers significant distances from the drop point.
Boat access required.
Recorded at this site
Depth
7-18m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar
Species recorded around this area include the leaf scorpionfish, peacock mantis shrimp, emperor angelfish, giant frogfish, weedy scorpionfish, Indian lionfish, crocodilefish, day octopus, oriental flying gurnard, bluespotted fantail ray, blackcheek moray, and various nudibranchs.
Yes, Mbwangawa is suitable for beginners, featuring mild currents and a depth range of 7 to 18 metres.
The reef slopes between 7 and 18 metres.
This is a boat dive; a boat is required to access the site.
The site is primarily designated for diving with a depth range of 7 to 18 metres.
Diving at Mbwangawa in Nungwi requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Mbwangawa in Nungwi. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Mbwangawa in Nungwi are January, February, and March. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Mbwangawa in Nungwi typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.