Kinondo - Diani Beach & South Coast

The Mitsubishi G3M ‘Nell’ bomber in Iron Bottom Sound is a real gem, particularly for a shallow wreck. It’s sitting upright in just 6 meters of water, so it’s perfect for a long dive or even a snorkel if you’re keen. We love how complete it feels, you can still trace the outline of the fuselage and imagine it in its flying days. Our favourite part has to be the cockpit area; light streams through the missing canopy, illuminating the dash. Look closely and you’ll spot tiny red-streaked blennies darting in and out of the gauges, and a whole host of colourful rainbowfish schooling around the wings. The fusiliers here are particularly bold, swarming so thick around the tail that they often obscure it entirely. It’s a great spot to practice your buoyancy and really take your time exploring. We’d suggest going early in the morning, before the sun gets too high, to catch the best light play through the wings.

Location
Diani Beach & South Coast, Kenya, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-4.403800, 39.566600
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Diani Chale Marine

Best Time to Dive in Diani Beach & South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Diani Beach & South Coast occur in January, averaging 28.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • February: 28.1°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • March: 28.1°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • April: 28.1°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • May: 28.1°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • June: 28.1°C (air: 25.3°C)
  • July: 28.1°C (air: 24.4°C)
  • August: 28.1°C (air: 24.5°C)
  • September: 28.1°C (air: 25.2°C)
  • October: 28.1°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • November: 28.1°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • December: 28.1°C (air: 27.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Diani Beach & South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Kinondo

Marine Life in Diani Beach & South Coast

Home to 446 recorded species including 284 reef fish, 96 hard corals, 27 seagrass & algae, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 7 sea cucumbers, 5 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Kinondo

Based on average water temperature of 28.1°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Kinondo?
The typical depth range for diving at Kinondo is between 12 and 30 meters. This makes it a versatile site, suitable for both recreational divers exploring shallower sections and advanced divers who wish to explore its deeper features. You can learn more about this spectacular site at Kinondo.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Kinondo?
Divers at Kinondo can expect to encounter dramatic coral formations, including a unique coral ridge that serves as a habitat for a wide variety of marine species. The site is known for its abundant marine life, offering a vibrant underwater experience. To discover more about the diverse creatures you might encounter, visit our wildlife database.
Is Kinondo a suitable dive site for beginner divers, or is it more challenging?
Kinondo is a suitable dive site for divers of all levels, offering an unforgettable underwater experience. Its depth range from 12 to 30 meters makes it ideal for both recreational divers just starting out and more advanced divers seeking deeper exploration. This versatility ensures a rewarding dive for everyone visiting Kinondo.
When is the best time of year to go diving at Kinondo for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to go diving at Kinondo for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, you might find our When to Dive guide helpful. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Diani Beach for current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Kinondo?
While Kinondo is suitable for "divers of all levels" and "ideal for both recreational and advanced divers," the specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided information. Generally, an Open Water Diver certification is sufficient for recreational depths, with Advanced Open Water or equivalent for deeper sections. We recommend consulting with local dive centers in Kenya for precise certification requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the Kinondo dive site?
Kinondo is known for its excellent visibility, with an average visibility of 14 meters, providing clear views of its vibrant underwater landscape. The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions at the dive site. For up-to-date information on currents, it's always best to consult with local dive operators in the Diani Beach area.