Back to Basics Adventures in Ponta do Ouro in southern Mozambique is an established provider of shark diving at the famous Pinnacles Reef. The site is considered one of the best-known shark diving locations in the western Indian Ocean, mainly because of the regularly appearing large sharks and the authentic encounters.
A key point for many divers: The dives are unbaited. Instead of baiting or luring, the emphasis is on natural encounters and observing the sharks’ normal behaviour.
Which shark species can you see?
The following species are commonly sighted around Pinnacles Reef:
- Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas)
- Tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier)
- Silvertip shark (Carcharhinus albimarginatus)
- Blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus)
- Scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini)
Depending on conditions, occasional sightings of the following species are also possible:
- Sand tiger shark / Grey sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus)
- Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) – rare seasonal encounter
Best time for shark diving in Ponta do Ouro
The best season for shark encounters is generally between November and April. In these months the water is warmer and the activity of pelagic species increases significantly. This increases the chances of seeing multiple shark species on a single dive.
Water temperatures (typical):
24–26 °C (Nov–Apr) – highest shark activity
21–23 °C (May–Oct) – cooler season, sightings still possible but less consistent
Shark diving at Pinnacles Reef
Pinnacles Reef lies somewhat offshore and is known for its distinctive reef structures. The dives are often current-dependent and are particularly aimed at divers seeking large fish encounters and who prefer a natural diving experience.
