Mexico - A group of giant Pacific mantas swimming gracefully with scuba divers, highlighting the rich marine life and underwater beauty.

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Dive into the Deep Blue

Picture it: the warm sun overhead, the salt-kissed breeze on your skin, and the gentle sway of the boat as you prepare to enter a hidden world. Below, a swirl of tropical fish flashes through coral canyons, and in the distance, the silhouette of a whale shark approaches. This is more than a holiday—it’s an oceanic odyssey.

Why Choose a Marine Safari with Indigo Safaris?

Where the Savanna Meets the Sea

Africa's wilderness doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Its warm waters and thriving coral reefs host a spectacular cast of marine characters, from gentle giants like manta rays and whale sharks to playful dolphins and nesting turtles. Our marine safaris are crafted with the same care and expertise as our land-based adventures, ensuring exceptional encounters with the creatures of the deep—without the crowds.

🐬 Meet the Giants of the Ocean

Encounter marine megafauna including whale sharks, humpback whales, dolphins, and manta rays in their natural habitats.

🐬 Dive Into Unspoiled Underwater Worlds

Snorkel or scuba dive in protected marine parks and remote coral reefs teeming with life.

🐬 Island Escapes with Wild Appeal

Discover exotic destinations like Zanzibar, Mafia Island, Bazaruto, Pomene, and Nosy Be—where beach bliss meets marine adventure.

🐬 Safari Above & Below the Surface

Combine your marine safari with Big Five game drives for a seamless land-and-sea experience.

🐬 Stay Where the Ocean Is Your Backdrop

Relax in hand-picked beach lodges, private island hideaways, and eco-conscious coastal retreats.

Have a question?
A scuba diver in St Helena looking at the camera. Behind him are other scuba divers diving in the crystal clear water along some rocky reef.

What to Expect on a Marine Safari

A Tapestry of Ocean Life Awaits

Mix Up game drives with gentle waves and coral reefs, where every moment is infused with salt-spray adventure and underwater wonder. Marine safaris offer front-row seats to some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring creatures—from gliding alongside whale sharks in Mozambique and Mafia Island, to watching humpback whales breach off Madagascar’s coast.

Whether you’re snorkelling with sea turtles, diving with great white sharks, or simply soaking up the sun on a quiet beach, these experiences blend adrenaline, beauty, and serenity. Expect crystal-clear waters, remote island charm, and encounters that stir the soul.

🐡 Swim with Ocean Giants

Glide alongside gentle whale sharks in the warm waters of Mafia Island, Mozambique, or Nosy Be—an unforgettable, awe-inspiring encounter.

🐡 Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Float above vibrant reefs in Zanzibar or Madagascar and share the water with graceful sea turtles as they glide through coral gardens.

🐡 Witness the Whales’ Migration

See humpback whales breach and play off the coasts of Madagascar and Mozambique during their seasonal migrations.

🐡 Dive into Predator Territory

Experience the thrill of cage diving with great white sharks in South Africa—an adrenaline-fuelled adventure for the bold at heart.

🐡 Unwind in Remote Coastal Beauty

Sink your toes into powdery sands and unwind at secluded beaches where the only footprints might be your own.

Dive In at the Right Time

When Waters Are Clear and Wildlife Comes Close

Marine safaris shift with the seasons—just like the ocean itself. Whether you’re diving vibrant reefs, snorkelling with turtles, or tracking humpback whales, the right time of year ensures the best visibility, calmest seas, and most thrilling marine encounters. Here’s when (and where) to take the plunge for an unforgettable ocean adventure.

🐳 Mozambique (May to November) – Clear Waters & Whale Sightings

During Mozambique’s dry season, the Indian Ocean offers calm conditions and excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling. From July to October, humpback whales migrate along the coast—often breaching just offshore. It’s the perfect time to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago, Pomene, or Tofo, where whale sharks and manta rays also make regular appearances.

🐳 Seychelles (March to May & September to November) – Dive Heaven

These transitional seasons bring glassy seas, excellent underwater visibility, and minimal wind—perfect for exploring the Seychelles’ granite outcrops and coral reefs. Water temperatures hover around 28°C, and you’ll often see reef sharks, eagle rays, and vibrant schools of fish during dives and snorkel sessions.

🐳 Zanzibar (June to October & December to February) – Dry Season Magic

Zanzibar’s two dry seasons offer warm waters, sunny skies, and minimal current—ideal for snorkelling or diving. The reefs around Mnemba Atoll and other marine parks come alive with reef fish, turtles, and occasional dolphins. December to February is particularly good for underwater visibility and beach relaxation.

🐳 South Africa (June to September) – Sardine Run Spectacle

Along the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal coast, winter brings the legendary Sardine Run. Millions of sardines move north in a shimmering wave, attracting a feeding frenzy of predators—common dolphins, Bryde’s whales, sharks, and gannets. This is one of the world’s greatest marine migrations and best experienced by boat or dive charter during peak months.

Hammer Sharks

Sail, Snorkel, and Safari—Seamless Journeys from Reef to Shore

Everything You’re Wondering, Answered Before You Hit the Water (or the Road)

Filtered or bottled water is provided in most lodges. Avoid tap water and use bottled water for brushing teeth.

220-240V is standard. Plugs vary; bring a universal adapter.

Some areas are malaria zones. Use repellents and consult your doctor for prophylaxis.

Available in most lodges, though speeds may be limited.

Moderate fitness is ideal for diving, but snorkelling and boat safaris suit all levels.

No. Discovery dives and snorkel trips are available.

Yes! Many itineraries are designed for land-and-sea combinations.

Protecting the Oceans, Empowering Coastal Communities

At Indigo Safaris, every marine adventure you book helps safeguard the ecosystems you explore. We proudly partner with local dive centres, marine biologists, and eco-lodges that are actively working to protect Africa’s ocean treasures. Your journey contributes directly to coral restoration projects, sea turtle monitoring, reef clean-ups, and the fight against destructive fishing practices.

But conservation doesn’t stop underwater. Many of our coastal partners invest in community-based tourism initiatives—training local guides, creating alternative livelihoods, and educating future ocean stewards. By choosing a Marine Safari with Indigo Safaris, you’re supporting a sustainable future where marine life thrives and local communities benefit from preserving it.

More Ways to Explore the Wild

From Open Plains to Island Shores—Adventure Awaits Beyond the Waves

If marine safaris have captured your imagination, these carefully curated travel styles offer even more ways to connect with Africa’s untamed beauty. Whether you prefer walking through the bush, travelling across borders, or combining luxury with wildlife, there’s a journey here for every kind of explorer.

🐾 Luxury Wildlife Safaris

Wilderness, with a Touch of Indulgence

Track big game by day and return to private plunge pools, open-air bathtubs, and gourmet dinners by night. These safaris blend raw beauty with five-star comfort.

🐾 Walking Safaris

Feel the Earth Beneath Your Feet

Get closer to nature on foot with expert guides leading you through wild terrain. It’s an immersive, intimate way to learn the language of the bush.

🐾 Family-Friendly Safaris

Big Adventures for All Ages

Designed with all generations in mind, these safaris offer flexible pacing, child-friendly lodges, and unforgettable moments that inspire wonder—together.

🐾 Multi-Country Safaris

One Journey, Many Worlds

Cross borders with ease on safaris that link iconic destinations across Southern and East Africa. New landscapes, wildlife, and cultures await at every turn.

Ready to Dive In?

Whether you're dreaming of snorkelling with turtles, photographing whale breaches, or lounging on untouched shores, Indigo Safaris brings the ocean to life. Let us help you create a marine safari tailored to your pace, preferences, and passions.
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Set Sail for Your Next Adventure.

From the turquoise waters of Mozambique to the pristine reefs of Zanzibar, Indigo Safaris creates extraordinary marine journeys above and below the surface. Experience the ocean like never before. Start planning your marine safari or speak to a safari expert today.

Where Ocean and Adventure Converge.

Dive into our Marine Safaris blog section and uncover stories from the deep. Travellers share their encounters with dolphins, whales, and vibrant coral reefs, exploring the beauty and diversity of Africa’s coastal and underwater worlds. Each story captures the thrill of discovery and the serenity of the sea.