Get off-the-beaten-track and join us for a unique dive adventure exploring a portion of the Mozambique coastline that few people have the opportunity of doing.
Pomene Bay (aka Ponta de Barra Falsa) is situated in arguably one of the most picturesque locations in Mozambique. It is remote, with a low population and situated within the Pomene National Park, thus assuring pristine and un-spoilt conditions.
The diving is out of this world and arguably considered as being some of the best diving in Mozambique.
SCUBA DIVING
Dive untouched coral reef systems that teem with a huge variety of marine life…sharks, turtles, manta rays, stingrays, morays and shoals of game fish to the smaller species of tropicals, crustaceans and nudibranchs…the abundance of life in our chosen isolated locations can only be marveled at.
In general, the reef topography consists of ridges, deep gullies, ledges and swim through’s offering an endless number of nooks and crannies to be explored. There is an abundance of colorful soft and hard corals, coral lines and sponges, covering the reef systems in a rainbow of colours.
Whale Sharks are occasionally encountered en route to our dive sites. These gentle giants are prolific along the Mozambique coast throughout the year, though more abundant during the summer period.
From scuba diving, snorkeling excursions (both at sea and within the mangrove estuary system), fishing from boat or shore to birdwatching, exploring the mangroves, exploring the rocky peninsular caves, rock pools, blow holes and the old hotel ruins, Pomene is truly a nature lovers paradise.
DIVE CENTRE
Our Dive Centre provides all the basic scuba equipment i.e. BCD / REG / WETSUIT/ OPEN HEEL FINS / MASK & SNORKEL with air fills which are done on site. Our dive gear is mostly Aqualung brand.
Please note that wetsuits may not be a perfect fit and we encourage clients to bring their own wetsuits and equipment where possible.
The Dive Centre is situated on a narrow peninsula, close to the old hotel peninsular with the Indian Ocean flanking us on the eastern side and crystal-clear waters of a spectacular mangrove estuary system lapping on the western flank.
EXPLORE LOCAL DIVE SITES…
Dive sites are between 5 & 30km away from the Dive Centre, which is roughly a 20-45min boat ride.
RAPPIES PLAY STATION
8m – 34m
This is a top-class dive site & possibly the most spectacular in the area. Play Station is a large pinnacle starting at 8m and dropping down to around 34m. The topography is absolutely stunning with everything from caves, deep gullies, numerous swim throughs & a large natural amphitheater.
Due to its dramatic structure a large variety of pelagic & migratory fish species visit and frequent this reef. Giant Ignobilis Kingfish & sizable potato bass in particular, are sighted around this reef on a regular basis as well as mantas & the occasional whale shark. Coral & sponge growth are prolific.
Dive certification level – suitable for all levels.
STEPS
8m – 26m
This site is extensive, running N-S about 1km offshore. This is an outer edge dive consisting of two steps starting in 8m and dropping down to 26m (dive depth is 15m). This is a great site on a slight – strong current where one can drift anything up to 2km covering some really beautiful territory.
One stands a good chance of encountering a variety of game fish species, reef fish species, tropical’s, some really gigantic morays & the occasional manta.
Dive certification level – suitable for all levels.
THE HAND
17m – 46m
The Hand is a pinnacle situated roughly 8km offshore starting at a depth of 17m & dropping down to 46m on the outer edge.
As the name implies, this pinnacle is in the shape of a hand and is home to some big Potato Bass, marbled groupers and the occasional shark. Being a deep-water site, one just never knows what one might encounter out here.
Dive certification level – suitable for advanced + divers with the average depth being about 28m.
TROJANS GAUNTLET
12m – 24m
This is the most southerly point of Zambia Shoal. A lovely inner edge dive covering an extensive reef running N-S.
The inner edge has a fair gradient with tumbled rock formations forming some really stunning gullies & deep ledges.
It’s a great dive for tropical’s, general reef fish, morays, game fish & occasional sightings of Nurse sharks, white tip reef sharks & mantas.
This area also contains some of the most stunning examples of coral growth that we have come across in Mozambique.
Dive certification level – suitable for all certification levels with an average dive depth of 15m.
KITWE PINNACLE
17m – 24m
This is an isolated pinnacle situated slightly NW of Main Zambia shoal.
This is a great dive site for tropical enthusiasts. The whole pinnacle is literally covered in plate corals & anemones providing shelter for hundreds of tiny tropical species.
One also occasionally sights White tip reef shark, turtles & game fish here.
Dive certification level – suitable for advanced + certification levels.
BIG SURPRISE
12m – 60m
This site is roughly 20km from our base & forms the first step to the continental shelf.
As the name implies, one regularly has sightings of large fish species, a variety of shark species & every so often sightings of sailfish & marlin whilst on the safety stop.
The reef itself is home to a variety of coral (soft & hard) sponges and some really large green tree coral specimens.
Dive certification level – suitable for all certification levels bearing in mind that large animals may be encountered.
CROCODILE WALL
16m – 40m
This site is also about 20km from our base and is the most northerly extension of Sylvia Shoal.
This is a wall of rock running N-S for approximately 4km. Starting at a depth of 15m & dropping down to around 40m, this site also attracts the bigger of the ocean’s creatures. Marlin, Sailfish and a variety of sharks can be sighted here. The reef is home to an abundance of green tree corals forming miniature forests along the wall.
Dive certification level – suitable for advanced+ certification levels.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Find your perfect home away from home while diving with us in Mozambique! We offer a range of accommodation partners nearby, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient place to rest. Browse the options below to find the best fit for your trip.
Pomene Beach Camp
(Chalets, single cabin / twin rooms / restaurant and bar) and is a 10-minute walk from our base.
MAKE A BOOKINGThe important stuff…
Malaria information
The whole of Mozambique is a malarial area, and you should consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylactics.
Medical information
A basic medical kit should always be carried in Mozambique, as medical facilities are very limited in most remote areas.
Personal dive gear checklist
If you are joining us for scuba diving, please bring your own dive computer / gloves / socks / hoodies / chicken vest, whatever will make your dive more comfortable. We do not supply these.
Things to take note of
Please be aware of the following as law is extremely strict in Mozambique:
- Always stick to the speed limits.
- You should wear your seat belts at all times.
- Make sure all vehicle lights are working.
- Make sure you carry an up-to-date fire extinguisher, 2 x reflective vests, 2 x triangles, original vehicle NATIS documents and insurance.
- 3rd party vehicle insurance is easily obtained online from Drive Moz.
- Get your TIP permit at the border on entry.
- Don’t allow people to get too close to your vehicle…snatch and grab happens wherever there are lots of people. Always keep your eyes open.
- Do not argue with officials…If a problem occurs, smile and act friendly. There is generally always a way out of most situations if done in a calm and friendly manner.
- Driving at night can be hazardous with animals, people, trucks and unroadworthy vehicles about, try to avoid if possible.
- A courteous, respectful and calm manner goes a long way in Mozambique.
FAQ’s
What boats are used?
You’ll be diving from our reliable 7.5-meter Feral Duck powered by 2×70 hp 4 stroke Yamaha’s. We comfortably accommodate up to 10 divers on each trip (the boat is licensed for 12 passengers, including the skipper). Rest assured, your safety is paramount: the boat is fully registered with SAMSA and INAMAR and carries all essential safety equipment, including a medical kit and onboard oxygen at all times.
What is the typical weather and ocean temperature in Pomene?
Pomene is situated 23° 55 latitude & 34° longitude so falls within the warm tropics. We are slightly north of the Tropic of Capricorn. The weather is hot in summer (Dec – Feb months in particular) & a temperate climate in winter. The ocean temperature varies between 22 – 30 degrees in summer 19 – 24 degrees during winter.
What kind of clothing and items should I pack?
Beachwear & very casual wear at all times, you are after all on holiday! During the entire year adverse weather can produce the odd cold spell so pack a warm jacket and tracksuit pants…just in case.
Remember to bring beach towels, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent!
How do I get to your location (or dive centre)?
Location:
Google co-ordinates:
22.925676 S
035.594155 E
Pomene Bay is 605km north of Maputo and 170km south of Vilanculos.
By Road:
From Maputo take the EN1 north. Pomene Bay is 605km north of Maputo. The road is tarred all the way to Massinga. About 6km outside of Massinga on the northern side you will see a sign on the left that says MORRUNGULO / POMENE BEACH. IGNORE this sign as it is incorrect and approximately 200m further north you will see a road to the right that does not have a signboard. Take this dirt road.
If you are not sure just stop and ask someone as there are always people standing at this turnoff.
Once taking this turnoff and approximately 6km down the road you will find yourself in a small village with shops. It is known as Rio das Pedras. There is an option of taking a left turn, going straight or taking a right turn. TAKE THE RIGHT TURN and continue along this road for 14km. You will arrive in a small village known as Tevele. There is only one road through this town, continue onwards, you will cross a small metal bridge. From here you will travel through a rural area. Do not take any turns, continue straight. This road will take you into the Pomene Reserve and onto Pomene.
Offshore Africa Pomene Dive Centre is on google maps and all the locals in Pomene will direct you.
The last 8 kilometers is thick, soft sand where you will need to deflate your tyres and engage 4×4.
The dirt road would not be suitable for a regular saloon car and any 2×4 vehicles should have difflock and ground clearance. Remember your tyre pressure…1.2 Bar to 1.5 Bar is normally sufficient for most conditions.
For those not able to drive on dirt / sand roads – We do have a collection point at Massinga, where you can safely leave your 2×4 and take our transfer vehicle to Pomene.
By Air:
There are two international airports in the Inhambane province. Inhambane town itself and Vilanculos.
Airlink and LAM both provide services on a weekly basis.
We would suggest flying Johannesburg to Vilanculos with SA Airlink as there are more flights on the timetable to Vilanculos than to Inhambane.
A transfer of roughly 4 – 5 hours can be arranged from both airport
OTHER ACTIVITIES ON OFFER IN POMENE
While diving is our passion, Pomene offers a beautiful and diverse environment to explore above the surface as well! If you need a break from the deep blue or have non-diving friends and family, there are plenty of relaxing and exciting ways to fill your days. Check out the options below for ways to experience the magic of the Pomene area.
OCEAN / MANGROVE SAFARI
Ocean – This is an activity for the whole family. Join us on a watery adventure where you stand a chance of encountering our local pods of dolphin and in season, Humpback whales. We will show you the old hotel point with its blowholes and caves after which we will cruise across the bay to access the mangrove estuary systems mouth.
The estuary system is home to numerous bird species including both Greater and Lesser Flamingos. When the water is clean the mangroves offer some beautiful snorkeling opportunities with an abundance of fish life and if you are fortunate, the elusive Seahorse and Pipefish.
* Snorkeling equipment supplied.
* A small refreshment box will be on board with water & light snacks.
Excursion duration – Approximately 2 – 3 hours long
DEEP SEA FISHING
Pomene Beach Camp offers Deep Sea fishing excursions. Please enquire with them directly.
TRADITIONAL MANGROVE TRAIL
This is an exciting expedition through the mangrove and into the bushveld beyond. A local guide will show you how the local inhabitants survive in this remote region on minimal fish and food gathered from the mangrove estuary and beyond.
Once through the estuary you will note the changing vegetation and your guide will point out the wild fruits that are harvested, plants used for medicinal purposes and how to make string in the bush. Your guide’s enthusiasm & willingness to share his knowledge of survival in his surroundings will make this a trip never to be forgotten.
BIRDING
Pomene bay is surrounded by a national reserve encompassing a diverse biosphere of birding habitats.
Wetlands, grass savannas, coastal dune forest, mangrove systems and numerous beaches attracting large flocks of Flamingos, Storks, Curlews, Terns, Plovers, Kingfishers, Lilac breasted rollers, Coucals, Nightjars, Owls…and the list just goes on.
Avid bird watchers and photographers will be enthralled with the huge variety of birdlife to be seen.
THE OLD POMENE HOTEL
Dive into the past with us!
The Old Pomene Hotel Pomene Bay, while famed for its pristine waters and vibrant coral [...]
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