Back to Basics Adventures

Located in Ponta do Ouro, Southern Mozambique, Back to Basics Adventures focuses on the raw connection between divers and the natural environment. The centre specialises in unbaited shark diving and exploring the extensive reef systems that define this stretch of coastline.

Operating with a philosophy of personalised attention, the centre prioritises small groups to ensure a close encounter with the local marine ecosystems. Whether you are looking for the adrenaline of a shark dive or the quiet observation of a reef ecosystem, the focus remains on authentic, respectful exploration.

The centre is run by a husband-and-wife team, Rupert Cornelius and Jenny Strömvoll. Rupert is a seasoned skipper, shark specialist, and dive instructor with over 13 years of experience, while Jenny is a marine life expert and author focusing on reef ecosystems and nudibranchs. They are joined by Agostinho Matusse, a dedicated dive guide.

The team is deeply committed to marine conservation, offering EcoDiver training to help divers understand and protect the reefs they visit. All instruction is provided through PADI and RAID affiliations, ensuring international standards for all certification levels.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of training through PADI and RAID. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or the Open Water Diver course, with Advanced Open Water Diver and Deep Diver courses available to progress further.

For those looking to professionalise their skills, the centre provides Divemaster training. Specialist courses are also available, including Nitrox, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Night Dive, and the EcoDiver programme. Technical and skill-based training such as Search and Recovery, Underwater Photography, and Multilevel and Computer diving is also offered.

The centre operates an 8m rubber duck boat (RIB) that can accommodate up to 14 divers. This vessel is used for drift dives and trips to the offshore reefs, providing a stable platform for exploring the Mozambique coast.

Nitrox is available for use on board, allowing for extended bottom times during reef excursions. The boat is equipped with radio communication and life jackets to ensure safety during all trips.

The shore-based facilities include a dive shop and dedicated areas for wetsuit drying and camera wash kit storage. Divers have access to hot showers and a place to rinse kit after a day in the salt water.

Full equipment rental is available for those not travelling with their own gear. The centre maintains regularly maintained rental kit and provides air fills on-site. For safety, emergency oxygen and first aid equipment are kept on the premises.

The area is renowned for its shark populations, particularly during the summer months from November to April when Bull sharks and Tiger sharks are frequently sighted. Silvertip sharks and various other reef shark species are also part of the regular marine life.

During the Humpback whale migration from July to November, the waters become even more active with large marine mammals. You can also encounter bottlenose dolphins, manta rays, and stingrays throughout the year.

Reef life is abundant, with large groupers, turtles, eels, and various species of tropical fish patrolling the coral gardens. The biodiversity is supported by healthy reef structures that provide shelter for many species.

For macro enthusiasts, the area offers significant interest with sightings of nudibranchs, seahorses, and various crustaceans. Divers should keep a close eye on the reef for these smaller, often more elusive inhabitants.

Reef diving is accessible year-round in Ponta do Ouro. For those specifically targeting shark encounters, the best period is during the summer months from November to April.

Seasonal migrations, such as the Humpback whales from July to November, can influence the local marine activity. Divers should plan their trips according to these natural cycles to maximise their chances of seeing specific pelagics.