Scuba Diving in Kenya

Kenya, is located on the east coast of Africa, and is bordered by Somalia to the northeast and Tanzania to the south. Previously known primarily for its famous wildlife reserves, diving in Kenya is fast becoming one of the most sought after tourist attractions for the country.

The calm blue water of the Indian Ocean is home to a diverse range of spectacular marine life and coral reefs which makes diving in Kenya a unique experience for both snorkelling and scuba diving alike.

Photo by Prilfish

There are several dive centers located along the entire coast, which is no surprise, as diving in Kenya, is the most popular water sport enjoyed by tourists from all over the world.

As the temperature factors do not influence diving in Kenya at all, it is not even necessary to wear a wetsuit. It is consistently warm and sunny and the climate is such, that one can dive all year round, with the average temperature recorded at between 25C and 35C. One will experience the hottest times while visiting Kenya from November to May and the coldest from June through to October.

The average water temperature is between 22C and 29C and visibility usually between 5 and 30 metres. When planning a diving excursion, it's best to consider that diving in Kenya is best anytime from October to April, but remember to also base your diving around the migration patterns of the specific marine animals you may wish to encounter during your diving time. For example, whale sharks are more abundant from October to April with plenty of sightings daily. whereas pods of Humpback Whales pass through during the months of July to October and can bee seen breaching in the deep water just beyond the reefs.

Diving in Kenya provides excellent opportunities for both the inexperienced, as well as the most adept diver. Along the coast north of Mombasa are several elite dive sites. Some of the most popular sites are situated in the Watamu Marine National Park which is well protected. The reef is easily accessible as is lies close to the shore, boasting an array of coral gardens which are perfect for learners and snorkellers.

Photo by Prilfish

For the more adventurous diver, make a point of viewing the Vuma caves near Kilifi Creek which are positioned about 20 metres beneath the surface. The wide open sea around the entrance is great for spotting dolphins and the interior offers a safe haven for eel and barracuda.

Moray Reef exhibits an exquisitely beautiful overhang, which drops approximately 28 metres to a sandy bottom. The jagged edge of the reef is home to several angel fish, nudibranch as well as an occasional barracuda. The coral is an inviting refuge for eel, octopus and a huge semi tame moray.

For those divers who are more experienced, diving in Kenya also provides an abundance of deep dives, the most popular being at Nyulli Reef. Here one will encounter strong tidal currents and a spectacular vision of coral reefs, together with a kaleidoscope of marine life.

The beaches of Kenya provide the launch pad for one of the top three most breathtaking coral reefs in the world, along with the Red Sea and Australia's Barrier Reef. Whether you are seeking tech dives, including wreck and night dives, or merely the splendour of snorkelling, diving in Kenya will be a most gratifying experience.