

Best for intermediate divers, 5-30m, boat entry, moderate current.
Turtle Reef is a drift dive site located 2000 metres offshore from Zanzibar West and Stone Town. The site features a mixed reef topography ranging from 5 to 30 metres in depth, with an average of 15 metres. Divers should expect moderate currents, though these can fluctuate. Access is by boat only. Visibility typically ranges between 10 and 30 metres, and water temperatures remain between 26 and 29 degrees Celsius. Hazards include lionfish, stonefish, sharks, and sharp coral. Divers must exercise caution regarding buoyancy and hand placement to avoid contact with the reef. The site is suitable for intermediate divers, and night diving is available.
-5.81833, 39.41667
Watch where you place your hands and fins throughout the dive: stonefish and Indian Lionfish are present and blend well into the reef. The site is boat access only, so confirm current conditions with your operator before heading out, as currents can exceed the typical moderate range.
Snorkelling trips from Matemwe beach reach Mnemba in under 30 minutes by motorised dhow.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-30m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-29°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Species recorded around this area include Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Emperor Angelfish, Giant Frogfish, Chromodoris Nudibranch, Day Octopus, Indian Lionfish, Leaf Scorpionfish, various moray eels, Crocodilefish, Whitetip Reef Sharks, and Reef Stonefish.
No, this site is intended for intermediate divers due to the drift conditions and potential for strong currents.
The reef depth ranges from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Turtle Reef is boat access only, located 2000 metres from the shore.
The site is primarily a drift dive for scuba divers and is not described as a snorkelling location.
Diving at Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North are January, February, March, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North should be aware of lionfish, stonefish, sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Turtle Reef in Zanzibar North typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.