Amazon - Bazaruto Archipelago

Amazon is one of our absolute favourite sites in Bazaruto, precisely because it feels so far out, so untouched. It’s a proper expedition to get there, but the reward is immense. We’ve had dives here where the visibility seemed to stretch forever, sometimes pushing 25 metres, giving you a proper sense of the reef’s scale. The C-shape of the reef, with its two distinct ledges, means there are always new corners to explore, craters to peek into, and those lovely, wide swim-throughs that just beg you to glide through them. What we really love about Amazon is the feeling of being in a truly wild place. You’ll often be the only boat out here, and the reef responds in kind. Schools of redtail scad and rainbowfish stream past, sometimes so thick they create a shimmering wall. Keep a keen eye out in the blue, because this is one of the better spots for those bigger pelagics. We’ve seen whitetips cruising the perimeter, and on a good day, the silhouette of a leopard shark is a real treat. It’s a site that rewards patience and a willingness to just drift and watch the ocean unfold around you. Definitely one for the more experienced divers who appreciate a proper offshore adventure.

Location
Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-23.899200, 35.631900
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Best Time to Dive in Bazaruto Archipelago

The warmest water temperatures in Bazaruto Archipelago occur in January, averaging 28.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 23.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.3°C
  • February: 28.3°C
  • March: 27.6°C
  • April: 27.0°C
  • May: 25.9°C
  • June: 24.8°C
  • July: 23.8°C
  • August: 23.3°C
  • September: 23.6°C
  • October: 24.5°C
  • November: 25.8°C
  • December: 27.4°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Bazaruto Archipelago

Nearest Dive Centres to Amazon

Marine Life in Bazaruto Archipelago

Home to 99 recorded species including 70 reef fish, 14 sharks & rays, 4 other, 3 sea cucumbers, 3 hard corals, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Amazon

Based on average water temperature of 25.9°C, currents 35 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • 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 are the typical dive depths and visibility conditions in the Amazon River?
Divers exploring the Amazon dive site can expect typical depths ranging from 5-20m, though the maximum depth reaches 28m. Visibility is generally very good, averaging around 15m, due to its remote location far out from shore.
What kind of marine life and underwater environment can divers expect to encounter in the Amazon?
The Amazon reef is shaped like a C, featuring two ledges with craters and large swim-throughs, creating a wild and unspoiled environment. Divers can expect to encounter a vibrant array of reef and pelagic fish, including leopard sharks, Whitetips, Grey reef-, Black tip reefshark, and scalloped Hammerheads. Mantas and spotted eagle rays are also sometimes seen in this teeming ecosystem.
How difficult and dangerous is scuba diving in the Amazon, and what are the main hazards?
Scuba diving at the Amazon dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty. While it is described as wild, untamed, and unspoiled due to being seldom visited, no specific dangers or main hazards are detailed in the provided information. Divers should always be prepared for varying conditions in such remote locations.
When is the best time of year to go diving in the Amazon, considering water levels and seasonal changes?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the Amazon, including details on water levels or seasonal changes, is not available in the provided context. For general guidance on optimal diving periods, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What specific scuba diving certifications or experience levels are recommended for Amazon River diving?
For diving at the Amazon dive site, an intermediate level of scuba diving experience is recommended. This suggests that divers should have a good grasp of basic skills and some experience with varied dive conditions.
What are the typical water currents and overall underwater conditions like in the Amazon dive sites?
The Amazon dive site offers generally very good visibility, averaging 15m, and is known for its wild, untamed, and unspoiled underwater environment. Specific information regarding typical water currents, however, is not provided in the available data.