Pange North - Zanzibar & Pemba

Salad Bowl is where we send divers who want a full immersion in the Somosomo Strait’s coral magic. It’s got this gradual slope, starting shallow at around 5 metres, then easing down to a comfortable 18 metres, maxing out at 20. We love it for the sheer density of coral, especially the hard stuff. Think bommies absolutely covered, plates stacked on plates, and a whole spectrum of hues. You'll glide past impressive fluted clams, and if you take your time, there’s often a Freckled Anglerfish tucked away somewhere, just waiting to be spotted. Our favourite way to dive it is on a gentle current, letting it carry you along the reef's edge. The visibility here is usually excellent, often 30 metres, so you’re just soaking it all in. Look out for the clouds of Yellowstriped Cardinalfish and schools of Five-lined Snapper hovering over the reef. It’s a site that rewards careful exploration, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to spend an hour surrounded by vibrant coral architecture.

Location
Zanzibar & Pemba, Tanzania, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-6.187000, 39.152500
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP)

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 Pange North

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 Pange North

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