Aldabra Atoll

Aldabra Atoll Diving Guide

Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a virtually untouched marine paradise offering unparalleled diving experiences. Its remote location and protected status have allowed marine life to flourish, making it a bucket-list destination for serious divers.

Dive Details

Depth, Visibility, and Temperature

Typical depth range for diving at Aldabra is between 10 and 30 meters (33-100 feet). Average visibility ranges from 20 to 40 meters (65-130 feet), depending on the season and prevailing currents. Water temperature varies seasonally, generally staying between 27-30°C (81-86°F) from October to May and dropping slightly to 25-28°C (77-82°F) during the southeast monsoon season (June to September).

Difficulty Level

Diving at Aldabra is generally considered intermediate to advanced. Strong currents are common, and experience with drift diving is highly recommended. Some sites may require advanced certifications due to depth and conditions.

Marine Life

Aldabra is a haven for diverse marine life. Divers can expect to encounter large populations of reef sharks (including grey reef, whitetip reef, and silvertip sharks), manta rays, turtles (green and hawksbill), Napoleon wrasse, and schools of barracuda and trevally. The coral reefs are vibrant and teeming with smaller reef fish, invertebrates, and macro life. Occasional sightings of whale sharks and hammerhead sharks are also possible.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Aldabra for diving is typically during the calmer months from October to May. During this period, the seas are generally calmer, visibility is at its best, and the water temperatures are warmer. The southeast monsoon season (June to September) can bring stronger winds and currents, potentially impacting diving conditions and boat accessibility.

What Makes It Special

Aldabra's exceptional biodiversity and pristine environment make it truly unique. Its isolation has protected it from much of the human impact that affects other dive sites. The sheer abundance and size of the marine life are remarkable. Divers can witness the underwater ecosystem largely undisturbed, offering a glimpse into what healthy coral reefs should look like.

Practical Tips

• Booking: Due to Aldabra's remote location and protected status, diving trips must be booked well in advance through authorized tour operators.
• Certification: Ensure you have adequate diving experience and certification for the expected diving conditions. Drift diving experience is essential.
• Equipment: Bring your own reliable diving equipment, including a dive computer and surface marker buoy (SMB). A reef hook can be useful in strong currents.
• Respect the Environment: Adhere to strict environmental guidelines provided by your operator. Avoid touching or disturbing any marine life or coral.
• Health: Ensure you are in good health and have adequate travel insurance covering diving activities in a remote location.