Lapped by the warm, tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, the East African coast offers superb diving opportunities virtually year round, with several, well-protected marine parks.

The best times for diving in Kenya, Zanzibar and Tanzania are December through March, with many seasonal species, such as the Whale shark and Manta ray, making their visits during this time.

Long, fringing reefs run along the shore, offering drift dives, drop-offs and a large variety of marine habitats within one small area.

The strong winds between May and September have caused shipwrecks over the years, providing many wreck dive possibilities along the outer reefs.

Inside the lagoons are numerous smaller coral heads that provide a nursery for many tropical reef fish and a haven for lobsters, rays and turtles.

Well-qualified PADI and BSAC dive centers are available up and down the coasts of both Kenya and Tanzania.