HauntedWall / Ras Misikitini - Zanzibar & Pemba

Long Caye Wall is one of those sites that just feels right. Dropping in, you're immediately hit with how healthy the reef is. We’re talking massive barrel sponges, some taller than a person, and pillar coral heads reaching out like ancient fingers. It's a proper wall dive, though we’ve only taken it to around 19 meters, that seems to be where the best action is. The real treat here is the sheer density of small stuff – little blennies peeking from every crevice, gobies darting around, and clouds of blue parrotfish working the coral. Keep an eye out for the Blackcap Basslets; their purple bodies and black caps are really striking against the reef. We’ve also had good luck spotting Nassau groupers here, sometimes just hanging out watching you pass by. Our favourite time to dive it is mid-morning, just as the sun really starts to hit the wall, lighting up all the colours. It's generally a pretty relaxed dive, with minimal current, making it a good pick if you're looking for a leisurely drift along a vibrant reef.

Location
Zanzibar & Pemba, Tanzania, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-5.819900, 39.212500
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Maziwe Island

Best Time to Dive in Zanzibar & Pemba

The warmest water temperatures in Zanzibar & Pemba 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: 27.5°C)
  • February: 28.1°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • March: 28.1°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • April: 28.1°C (air: 26.1°C)
  • May: 28.1°C (air: 26.1°C)
  • June: 28.1°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • July: 28.1°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • August: 28.1°C (air: 24.9°C)
  • September: 28.1°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • October: 28.1°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • November: 28.1°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • December: 28.1°C (air: 27.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Zanzibar & Pemba

Nearest Dive Centres to HauntedWall / Ras Misikitini

Marine Life in Zanzibar & Pemba

Home to 331 recorded species including 266 reef fish, 14 sea snails & nudibranchs, 10 seagrass & algae, 8 hard corals, 8 sharks & rays, 7 sea cucumbers.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for HauntedWall / Ras Misikitini

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 the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini, and are there shallower or deeper sections?
The Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini features small walls that range from 5 metres down to 18 metres. While the description indicates walls up to 18 metres, the maximum recorded depth for this site is 17 metres. Divers can explore these sections, which are unique for their wall formations.
What specific marine life and unique underwater topography can divers expect to see at the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini?
At the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini, divers can expect to encounter unique small wall topography, featuring both hard and soft coral formations between 5 and 18 metres. The vibrant marine life includes many small coral fish, fascinating blue spotted rays, and elegant ribbon eels, alongside a variety of other fish species.
How difficult is the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini dive site, and is it recommended for beginner, intermediate, or advanced divers?
The Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Therefore, it is highly recommended for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications. This classification suggests it offers a rewarding experience for those comfortable with a bit more challenge.
What is the best time of year to dive the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini for optimal visibility and marine encounters?
While specific seasonal recommendations for optimal visibility and marine encounters at Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini are not provided, the site generally boasts great visibility, averaging 12 metres, and nice temperatures. For general guidance on diving in Tanzania, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required or highly recommended to dive the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini safely?
Given that the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini is an intermediate dive site, it is highly recommended that divers possess certifications beyond entry-level, such as Advanced Open Water or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate the small walls and depths up to 17 metres.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini dive site?
Divers visiting the Haunted Wall / Ras Misikitini can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 12 metres, which allows for clear views of the coral and marine life. While specific current conditions are not detailed, the site is known for its nice temperatures.