wonderful holidays africa fundu lagoon : zanzibar

useful information

climate  

December to March sees mainly hot dry weather, June to October are traditionally cool and dry (circa 25°C). Fundu is at its best between June and September when rainfall is rare and temperatures hover around 28°C. The rainy season arrives in April to May although this may be early or late and as a result may affect a few weeks before or after. In November Fundu experiences the short rains, accompanied by days of sunshine.

water temperature/ visibility

Early in the season (June) the temperature is 24°C and this rises over the season to an average temperature of between 27-28°C. The Dive Centre is stocked with 3mm full length wetsuits which are suitable for these waters. Average visibility ranges from 20-40 metres with the best visibility later in the season. High tide produces the best visibility on a daily basis and as the majority of the diving is wall dives along pristine hard coral the visibility in general is rarely disappointing.

best diving months

October through to March. Outside of these months sea conditions can be rougher which results in some visibility deterioration. December to February is seen as the best time for Manta Rays and August is the best time to see mirgrating Humpback whales. Spinner and Bottle Nose dolphins are seen all year round in the right conditions.

the diving

Predominantly drift/wall diving. On a strong incoing tide Fundu’s dive sites offer the most exhilerating drift diving in East Africa with the regular sightings of schooling Barracuda, giant Trevallies, Napolean wrasse, huge groupers, turtles, Bluespotted / Blotched Fantail/ Eagle/ Manta rays. All set against a backdop pf mile upon mile of pristine hard coral proliferated by all the usual reef fish in their thousands.

Diving is done from one or both (to keep group sizes smalll) of our ‘big yellows’ ex Royal Marines landing craft. Powered by two 115 hp outboard engines they make excellent dive boats and are the fastest boats on Pemba.

visas & entry requirements

All visitors entering Tanzania require a visa. Visitors may obtain a visa on arrival at Dar-es-Salaam or Zanzibar airports for US$50, payable in cash, valid for 3 months. British Nationals may obtain a visa prior to departure from the High Commission of Tanzania in London +44 (0)20 749 569 1470. All visitors also require proof of sufficient funds and should hold documentation for their return or onward journey. Passports should be valid for at least six months from date of entry. Those arriving from an infected country must hold a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

health

As requirements and regulations are subject to change at short notice, visitors are advised to contact their nearest Tanzanian Embassy and GP well in advance of their intended date of departure. An International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever is required to enter Zanzibar. Visitors from countries infected with Cholera and Yellow Fever must produce international certificates of vaccination. Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Meningitis, Malaria and Rabies may also be recommended for your travel to Tanzania. It is always advised that your tetanus is up to date. NB: For expert opinion on all of these diseases and any more that are relevant to travel please always consult your doctor or GP. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised.