Peri-Peri Divers

Peri-Peri Divers is an established SSI dive centre situated in the Inhambane Province of Mozambique, with primary operations split between Tofo Beach and Morrungulo. Since its founding in 2009, the centre has become a fixture in the region, known for its focus on the diverse marine life that defines this coastline.

The centre is deeply integrated into the local ecosystem, maintaining a partnership with the Marine Megafauna Foundation for over a decade. This connection supports the conservation efforts essential to protecting the very species that draw divers to these waters, including whale sharks and various manta ray species.

The team is led by co-founders Steve and Nick, alongside Martina and James. The staff brings a diverse range of expertise to the centre, with James having previously worked as a researcher for the Marine Megafauna Foundation. This background provides a knowledgeable perspective on the local pelagic life.

Instruction and management are handled by an experienced crew, with Martina overseeing administration and offering yoga instruction. The centre operates in English and Czech, ensuring clear communication for international divers throughout their training and guided excursions.

As an SSI affiliated centre, Peri-Peri Divers offers a complete progression of certifications. For those starting their journey, courses include SSI Bubble Blower, SSI Basic Scuba, and SSI Scuba Diver, leading up to the Open Water Diver qualification.

Advanced training is extensive, covering SSI Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, and the SSI Deep & Nitrox speciality course combo. The centre also provides training for Rescue Diver and Divemaster levels, as well as the SSI React Right course to enhance safety skills.

The fleet consists of four 8m semi-rigid boats, each powered by twin Suzuki four-stroke engines (90-115hp). These vessels are purpose-built for the local conditions, featuring observation chairs specifically designed for spotting whale sharks during trips.

Each boat is equipped with radios and the necessary safety gear for offshore excursions. For double dives, the centre provides snacks and light lunches, including sandwiches, fruit, and local biscuits, to keep you fueled between descents.

The Tofo Beach facility is a purpose-built centre featuring a 5-metre deep training pool for skill development. Onshore, you will find spacious equipment storage, lockers, and both indoor and outdoor showers. There is also a dedicated rinsing area for camera equipment to ensure your gear is well-maintained.

Full rental kit is available, though divers are expected to provide their own wetsuits. Nitrox is available for use, and the centre maintains oxygen safety equipment on site. For those staying at the Morrungulo camp, the facilities include air conditioning, hot and cold water, and Wi-Fi.

The waters around Tofo and Morrungulo are famous for their megafauna. You can encounter whale sharks, manta rays, and eagle rays throughout the year, with humpback whales appearing seasonally from June to August. Pelagic life is abundant, including marlin, sailfish, and various shark species such as whitetip sharks, leopard sharks, and guitarfish sharks.

Reef life is equally diverse, with large populations of potato groupers, brindle groupers, and various species of moray eels. You will often see schools of snapper, barracuda, and jack, alongside reef fish like damselfish, butterflyfish, and surgeonfish.

For macro enthusiasts, the reefs offer a wealth of smaller treasures. Look closely for nudibranchs, seahorses, and various crustaceans including lobster, spiny lobster, mantis shrimp, and boxer shrimp. Frogfish, scorpionfish, and leaf fish are also frequently spotted among the corals and crevices.

Diving in this region is possible year-round, though conditions vary by site. Some shallower reefs are well-protected from swell, providing calm environments for beginners, while offshore sites like Amazon and The Office can experience strong or unpredictable currents.

In the winter months, specifically from June to August, the presence of migrating humpback whales adds a unique dimension to the diving experience. Deep wall dives and drift dives are common, particularly at sites like Robs Bottom and Table Top.