  Swahili divers
Category: Divecenter (By Gurt on Tuesday, March 02, 2004)
Was there: Nov 2001
The setting of the old missionary house of Swahili divers in the little town of Chake Chake already makes the whole experience of diving on Pemba worthwile. The town itself is not very well equiped for travellers who are looking for nightlife, but all the after and before diving activities are centered on the mission anyway. The reason is that the mission fully functiones as guesthouse for those diving with Swahili divers. The atmosphere is very relaxed with different corners to hang out in this two story building. The building has some very characteristic features of an old missionary. The house features double rooms, as well as dormitory beds.
It's quite a drive from the mission to the old jetty, and the combination of the jeep with the bumpy road didn't make it very enjoyable, if it wasn't for the nice villages that you pass through on the way. (Don't know actually if they still have the jeep).
The boats are great and will take you to the different spots in no time. In between dives there's always a nice little white sandy beach to have lunch and chill.
The crew is professional and friendly, and the fact that they don't cater to large groups makes the whole experience a kind of familiy thing.
One tip: bring earplugs! As the majority of the Island is Islamic, there are plenty of imams (or whatever they are called) who will start their prayers in the early mornings. They all do so with modern amplifying techniques and it always seems like they are competing on who can make himself heard best all the way across the Pemba channel.
The crew knows the area very well, and are capable of finding the best spots for diving in different conditions. Diving with Swahili divers is a great experience for those who want small groups, in an untouristy area. It can be ideally combined with a safari in the Serengeti, to make an unforgettable two weeks holiday (as we did).
Cheers,
Gurt |