Off the eastern coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar emerges like a dream—an island paradise where history and nature intertwine in a captivating harmony.
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Famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Zanzibar is far more than a tropical getaway. It’s a living mosaic of ancient cultures, shaped by centuries of Arab, African, and European influence. For the curious traveler, the island offers more than just the allure of its shores. Wandering through its narrow streets, discovering its unique wildlife, and exploring its natural treasures reveals a world as rich in stories as it is in beauty.

Stone Town: A Journey into the Heart of Zanzibar’s History

​There is nothing quite like the magic of Stone Town, Zanzibar’s ancient city, where every stone whispers tales of trade, slavery, and cultural conquest. This labyrinth of narrow alleyways and timeworn buildings stands as a living testimony to the island’s golden era—when Zanzibar thrived as a hub for the spice and slave trades.

Around Every Corner: A Living Mosaic of Cultures
Wander through a narrow alley and suddenly, ornate wooden doors and whitewashed walls reveal a spectacular backdrop—a true architectural patchwork blending Arab, Indian, and European styles. Strolling through Stone Town is like walking into the past.
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Must-see highlights include:
The House of Wonders – Housed in a 19th-century building, this museum traces Zanzibar’s rich history, from its sultans to its pivotal role in the spice and slave trades.
Darajani Market – Here, local life pulses through stalls overflowing with tropical fruits, freshly caught fish, and fragrant spices. It’s a vibrant feast for the senses, where every color, scent, and sound tells a story.

Zanzibar’s Beaches: Nungwi and the Allure of the Ocean
But Zanzibar is also an island of dreamlike beaches. Among the most iconic is Nungwi Beach, located on the island’s northern tip. Fringed with powder-white sand and lapped by crystal-clear waters, it remains one of the archipelago’s true gems.
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Unlike other parts of the coast, Nungwi enjoys calm seas that are unaffected by the tides—making it a perfect haven for water activities all day long, from sailing and snorkeling to simply floating in the turquoise shallows.

Underwater Encounters and Coastal Life
For diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, Nungwi offers an exceptional marine playground. Its coral reefs are teeming with life—tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and even manta rays glide through these vibrant underwater worlds.
But Nungwi is also a gateway to local life. Just steps from the beach, the nearby fishing village welcomes visitors into an authentic world of tradition—where fishermen return with the day’s catch and handcrafted souvenirs carry the soul of the island.

Wildlife and Wilderness: An Ecosystem Like No Other
Zanzibar is home to a rare and fascinating biodiversity, offering travelers the chance to encounter endemic species and protected habitats. At the heart of the island lies the Jozani Forest, where the endangered red colobus monkeys live hidden among the lush vegetation. Spotting them is a quiet, powerful moment—one that stays with you.

Nature lovers will also be enchanted by the island’s color-changing chameleons and giant tortoises, creatures that reflect the rich and fragile natural heritage of Zanzibar.

Mystical Caves and Hidden DepthsThe Mtoni and Pemba caves offer visitors a glimpse into Zanzibar’s more mysterious side. These natural formations, shaped over centuries, invite a more intimate exploration of the island—far from the tourist crowds, and deep into its quiet, ancient heart.

The Zanzibar Archipelago: Cultures, Islands, and AdventureBeyond the main island, Zanzibar unfolds into a constellation of smaller islands and atolls, each with its own set of wonders. One standout is Prison Island, just a short boat ride from Stone Town. Once used to detain slaves, this island now shelters a population of giant tortoises, offering a surreal mix of history and wildlife.
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The archipelago is also the beating heart of a vibrant culinary tradition, where local spices, Arab influences, and African flavors blend into unforgettable dishes. Strolling through local markets or dining in small family-run restaurants is the best way to taste Zanzibar’s soul—whether through a fragrant plate of pilau or a bold and colorful Zanzibari biryani.

Prison Island: A Stop Steeped in History and Nature
Just a few kilometers off the coast of Stone Town, Prison Island is a small landmass that holds a rich and complex past. Once used as a prison for slaves and criminals, the island has transformed into one of Zanzibar’s most intriguing destinations.

Beyond its haunting history, the island is home to a colony of giant tortoises, some of which can live up to 200 years. Introduced in the 19th century, these gentle giants have become a living symbol of longevity and Zanzibar’s biodiversity.
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With secluded beaches, coral reefs, and clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, Prison Island offers a unique blend of historical depth, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure—an unforgettable stop for curious travelers.

Why Zanzibar Deserves a Place on Your Map
Zanzibar is more than just a destination—it’s a journey through time, culture, and nature. From its powdery white beaches to its storied past, the island offers an experience that awakens all the senses.
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Whether you come for the turquoise waters, the winding alleys of Stone Town, or the chance to encounter rare wildlife, Zanzibar captivates through its authenticity. It’s a place where history whispers from every wall, where nature speaks in colors and silence, and where every moment invites you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect—with the world, and with yourself.

What Might Disappoint Some Travelers
Like any popular destination, Zanzibar also has its challenges. Some beaches—such as Kiwengwa or Paje—can become crowded with mass tourism, which may take away from the sense of tranquility many visitors seek.

While infrastructure is generally sufficient for a comfortable stay, it can feel a bit rustic in more remote areas. For those looking for a more untouched experience, heading to places like Nungwi or the more isolated neighboring islands might be a better choice.
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Despite ongoing efforts to protect the environment, plastic pollution remains an issue in certain parts of the island, particularly around urban areas. It’s a reminder that even in paradise, the balance between tourism and preservation is a delicate one.

Zanzibar: An Island of Striking Contrasts
Zanzibar is a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. If you’re seeking a destination that goes beyond postcard-perfect beaches, Zanzibar will surprise you with its rich heritage, diverse ecosystems, and mesmerizing atmosphere.
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Though not without its flaws, the island’s authenticity and unique charm make it one of the most beautiful and meaningful stops in any journey across the Indian Ocean.

The sun rises over the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, casting golden hues on the ocean's surface. Small wooden fishing boats, packed with tourists, speed towards a pod of dolphins. Excited voices, camera shutters, and the splash of hurried snorkelers disturb the morning calm. This scene, played out daily, is a stark reminder of how human fascination with marine life often comes at a cost.
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Recent documentaries have shed light on the uncontrolled pressure that dolphin populations in Zanzibar endure due to mass tourism. Swimmers chase them, boats corner them, and respect for their natural behavior is often disregarded. It is easy to condemn such practices, to label them as reckless or damaging. But in a world where marine life is increasingly under threat, are these encounters always the worst alternative? If not for tourism, would these same dolphins face an even darker fate—hunted for food, captured for aquariums, or turned into aphrodisiac powders, as is the case in parts of Asia?

Selective Outrage: A Double Standard in Wildlife Reporting​
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This issue extends beyond Zanzibar. If a TV network chooses to expose the human impact on marine wildlife, shouldn’t it also hold a mirror to other problematic practices elsewhere? Madagascar, for example, has a booming whale shark tourism industry. While some operators respect the animals, others encourage behavior that disrupts their natural movements. In French Polynesia, divers routinely make contact with bottlenose dolphins in Rangiroa, yet these interactions rarely spark media outrage. The question then arises: why are some forms of wildlife tourism vilified while others are glamorized? And why does mainstream media choose to highlight some issues while remaining silent on others?

The Instagram Effect: When Nature Becomes a Trophy

Social media has fueled the desire for up-close, dramatic encounters with wildlife. For many, the goal is no longer the experience itself but the validation that comes with posting it online. Whether it's tourists chasing dolphins for the perfect selfie or divers pushing ethical boundaries for an award-winning shot, the ocean is often reduced to a backdrop for human ego. The truth is, no documentary will stop irresponsible tourists from doing whatever it takes for a viral moment.

A Photographer’s Reflection: Ethics in Marine Photography

​Watching these reports, I can't help but reflect on my own journey as an underwater photographer. Why do I take these images? For likes? For recognition? No. I capture the ocean’s beauty to share its wonders, to tell its story, and to remind people why it deserves protection. The joy for me is not in the instant gratification of an image but in the hours spent observing, waiting, and earning the trust of marine life.
In Mayotte, I have the privilege of stepping into the ocean at dawn, swimming out from the shore, and simply waiting. I don’t chase animals—they come to me. Whether it's dolphins, turtles, or sharks, every approach is deliberate, respectful, and based on an understanding of their behavior. Over time, I have even learned to mimic certain movements—a circular swim pattern to communicate with turtles, subtle fin movements to signal to dolphins that I am not a threat. These techniques take patience and commitment, something a rushed tourist encounter will never replicate.

The Race for the Perfect Shot: When Photography Becomes Exploitation​
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Beyond tourism, there is another conversation to be had—one about the pressure of wildlife photography competitions. In an industry that rewards the most striking, rare, and sensational images, photographers are sometimes tempted to cross ethical lines. Should an image of a dolphin staring directly into the lens be celebrated if it was only achieved by disturbing the animal? Should we admire a close-up of a whale shark if it was obtained by a diver who got too close? These are difficult questions, and perhaps ones best left for another article.

​Using Photography to Support Conservation Efforts
Photography has the power to go beyond simple aesthetic appeal and can play a vital role in conservation efforts. As photographers, we have the opportunity to make our work useful by collaborating with associations and scientists who are dedicated to protecting the natural world.
One powerful example is my friend Nils, who works with the Manta Trust to photograph manta rays for identification purposes. Each photo becomes a valuable data point, helping the organization track and catalogue manta populations based on their geographic location. This kind of collaboration ensures that our passion for underwater photography serves a greater purpose.
Instead of focusing solely on capturing the perfect shot to post on social media, we can choose to be more intentional and thoughtful about how our images are used. By connecting with conservation organizations and offering our skills for scientific documentation, we can make a meaningful difference. Let’s use our art to support research, raise awareness, and ultimately contribute to the preservation of marine life.
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The Story Behind a Whale Photo​

A few years ago, I was alone in the lagoon of Mayotte when I took a photo of a humpback whale. No one else was there—just me, the ocean, and this giant of the sea gliding peacefully through the crystal-clear waters. It was a rare moment, one of those encounters that stays with you forever.
Later, I sold that image through a stock photography agency. And sometime after, I found out that my photo—taken in Mayotte—had been used in a promotional booklet for whale-watching tourism... in Madagascar. The irony wasn’t lost on me.

This is the paradox of wildlife photography. You can capture an image with the utmost respect, yet once it’s out in the world, it can be repurposed, reshaped, and sometimes even used to promote practices that contradict your own ethics.
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That experience reinforced an important lesson: as photographers, we don’t just take pictures. We shape narratives. We influence perceptions. And that comes with responsibility.

The Responsibility of Wildlife Photographers and Conservationists

There’s another discussion to be had here—about the role of photography competitions and the increasing drive for more sensational images. But that’s a topic for another day.

For now, my message is this: respect nature. Leave your GoPro aside and simply enjoy the moment, not for the likes, but for yourself. The most valuable memories are the ones you carry in your soul, not the ones you post online.
If you truly want to make a difference, go beyond fleeting experiences. Commit yourself to real conservation. Make it your profession. Follow ethical guidelines. And if you want to expose human impact on wildlife, be thorough—tell the full story, not just the convenient parts.

Because in the end, the most powerful legacy we can leave is in the awe of future generations—the wonder in their voices when they say, “I want this to last. I want my children to see what I have seen.”
Otherwise, don’t pretend to be a conservationist. Be one.

Immersion in the Lagoon of Mayotte: Just Below the Surface

Mayotte, a pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a sanctuary where marine life thrives under crystalline light. This project could have taken a completely different turn. I was in contact with the BBC for a collaboration with Blue Planet, but things did not go as planned. The person who was supposed to provide scientific validation for our project took advantage of the situation to push their own project forward, ultimately leading to the cancellation of ours.

I had believed that the world of wildlife documentaries was driven by a shared love for nature, but reality is quite different: some are willing to do anything to take someone else's place. It was a disillusionment, but it did not stop me from pursuing my work with the same determination.
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For my first episode dedicated to the marine depths, I chose to explore this fragile and fascinating world that exists just below the surface, where sunlight dances with the water and reveals an ecosystem of incredible richness.

The Genesis of the Project​
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The idea for this short film was born from a desire to capture the raw beauty and harmony that reign in these preserved waters. Unlike deep dives that reveal mysterious abysses, I wanted to showcase what is accessible to everyone, just a few meters below the surface. This is where the spectacle begins, where coral reefs teem with life, and marine creatures move in a natural choreography.

Filming at the Rhythm of Nature

Creating this film required a patient and respectful approach. Working exclusively with natural light, I sought to capture every detail with optimal clarity. The sunlight filtered through the water provided vibrant colors and an almost surreal rendering, where the blue of the lagoon blends with the vivid hues of fish and corals.

From the moment I arrived in Mayotte, I had the idea of creating a 30-minute short film. It ultimately took more than four years to gather all the pieces of the puzzle and turn it into a full-fledged documentary. It is important to highlight the time required to bring such a project to life, as some people think that all it takes is to jump into the water to capture extraordinary images. In reality, one must traverse the lagoon extensively, listen to rumors about the presence of animals, go out, wait, and return empty-handed over and over again, until the perfect moment presents itself—or until the frustration of a missed opportunity sets in.

In this regard, the presence of Nils Bertrand from Seablue Safari was invaluable. He knows the lagoon and the behaviors of its marine inhabitants inside out, having observed them in Mayotte for over twenty years. His experience and deep understanding of the environment allowed us to execute exceptional approaches and capture rare, authentic moments.
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The main challenge was anticipating the movements of marine life to film unique moments. The curiosity of sea turtles, the grace of stingrays, and the frenzy of juvenile fish schools provided magical scenes that only prolonged immersion can truly capture.

A Visual and Auditory Narrative

Until now, I had always worked on short clips or projects lasting three to four minutes. This time, I had to find the right balance between images, music, voice-over, and silence. Creating a smooth and immersive narrative required not only a different approach but also having the necessary footage to perfectly construct the story's flow.

Additionally, this project demanded real teamwork. I collaborated with Mathilde Hangard for storytelling and with Nils for the scientific aspects. Nils, who values precision, significantly raised the level of rigor I had set for myself. His expertise brought an essential level of accuracy to the film's information and sequences.
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Ultimately, nearly a year was needed for editing and the final cut. Removing scenes, adding others, using certain necessary but subtle effects—it was meticulous work and an ambitious project that required both time and discipline to produce a film that remains faithful to the beauty and complexity of Mayotte's lagoon.

The Bahamas, a paradisiacal archipelago of 700 islands and over 2,000 cays, is one of the most sought-after destinations for sea lovers and diving enthusiasts. Among its many marine treasures, Tiger Beach, located off the coast of Grand Bahama, is a true mecca for divers seeking thrills and extraordinary encounters with sharks.

Tiger Beach: The Shark Sanctuary : 
Tiger Beach is one of the world's most famous spots for shark diving. This site is renowned for its crystal-clear, shallow waters, ideal for immersing yourself among tiger sharks, as well as other species such as nurse sharks, blacktip sharks, and whale sharks. The water’s exceptional clarity provides perfect visibility, making it a unique location to observe and photograph these majestic creatures.
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Located just a few kilometers off the coast of Grand Bahama, Tiger Beach is easily accessible by boat and ideal for dives at relatively shallow depths (between 5 and 12 meters). This allows divers to move at their own pace while being immersed in an incredible environment where marine life is impressively diverse.

Encountering Tiger Sharks: An Unforgettable Experience

The tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is one of the most fascinating and feared creatures of the ocean. Its impressive size, unique dark-striped pattern, and reputation as a top predator make it an especially striking encounter. At Tiger Beach, divers have the opportunity to observe them up close, in their natural habitat, in a safe and controlled environment.

Despite their fearsome reputation, tiger sharks—along with the other species present—are generally not aggressive toward humans. Experienced guides at Tiger Beach ensure a respectful encounter by following strict protocols to prevent any disturbance to the animals.

Diving with these sharks, whether freediving or scuba diving, is a moment of pure adrenaline. Seeing these majestic creatures swim around you, often just a few meters away, is a life-changing experience. For many divers, it becomes an unforgettable memory, fostering a deep connection with nature and a greater awareness of the need to protect these marine predators.

The Challenges of Diving at Tiger Beach

Despite its breathtaking appeal, shark diving at Tiger Beach comes with its own set of challenges.
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• Managing Anxiety
  The presence of these impressive predators can be intimidating, especially for first-time divers. However, with proper preparation and the guidance of experienced professionals, it is possible to manage stress and fully appreciate the experience.

 

• Marine Conditions
  Like any open-sea dive, conditions can change quickly. Currents, water temperature, and winds may impact the experience. Being well-prepared and equipped for varying conditions is essential to ensuring a safe and enjoyable dive.

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• Specialized Equipment
  Diving safely with sharks requires specific gear. In addition to standard diving equipment (mask, snorkel, buoyancy control device, etc.), it may be advisable to use waterproof housings for cameras and protective gear against bites—though incidents are rare.

The Cost of the Adventure: An Investment for Diving Enthusiasts

Diving at Tiger Beach comes at a certain cost, but for passionate divers, it is an investment well worth making.

• Excursion Costs
  A one-day excursion to Tiger Beach typically ranges from €200 to €400 per diver, including boat transportation, experienced guides, and the shark diving experience.

• Equipment Expenses
  Purchasing high-quality scuba diving gear—including a waterproof housing for photography—can cost several thousand euros, depending on the level of expertise and specialization.

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• Travel to the Bahamas
  Beyond the diving costs, a trip to the Bahamas can be relatively expensive. Flight and accommodation prices vary depending on the season, so a substantial budget is required for a full experience.

Conclusion: Tiger Beach, an Underwater Dream

Diving at Tiger Beach is a one-of-a-kind adventure, blending adrenaline, the beauty of the ocean depths, and the chance to encounter fascinating marine creatures. While the experience comes with its challenges, the rewards are immense. For diving enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true—an opportunity for awe and a deep sense of respect for these majestic marine predators.
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If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking underwater destinations, Tiger Beach in the Bahamas is a must-visit.

An Underwater Paradise Between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean
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Baja California, this enchanting peninsula stretching between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, is truly a sanctuary for diving enthusiasts. Each year, divers from around the world come to explore its crystal-clear waters, drawn by the promise of exceptional encounters with marine life of unparalleled richness. Among the must-visit diving spots in this underwater adventure, La Paz stands out as a prime gateway to spectacular dive sites.

A World Populated by Giants: Whale Sharks
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La Paz is one of the best places in the world to observe whale sharks, these ocean giants that, despite their impressive size reaching up to 12 meters, are remarkably gentle. These majestic creatures, which primarily feed on plankton, come to feed in the calm waters of La Paz Bay between October and April.

​The encounter with a whale shark is a unique experience: the feeling of swimming alongside these peaceful creatures, in perfect harmony with the ocean, creates a timeless moment. Diving near these immense sharks, while respecting their space, is a way to reconnect deeply with nature.

Sea Lions: The Dancers of the Waves
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Not far from La Paz, in the crystal-clear waters of Espíritu Santo Island, another fascinating encounter awaits divers: the California sea lions. These marine mammals, known for their agility and sociability, are a true spectacle underwater. Curious, they often approach divers, performing pirouettes and aquatic dances around their visitors.

​These animals are particularly playful, and their interaction with humans creates moments of pure wonder. The waters around Espíritu Santo Island are also a prime spot to observe other marine species, such as manta rays, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful fish.

The Seafloor: A Giant Aquarium
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The seafloor of Baja California is one of the richest and most diverse underwater ecosystems on the planet. The Sea of Cortez, nicknamed "the aquarium of the world" by Jacques Cousteau, is teeming with life. Dives in this region offer breathtaking underwater landscapes, with stunning rock formations, coral reefs, and schools of colorful fish swimming in crystal-clear waters. Divers can observe synchronized schools of fish, sea lions performing acrobatics, mobula rays dancing beneath the surface, and coral landscapes that seem straight out of a dream.

A Balanced Fauna: A Protected Zone
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This unique area is also a model for marine conservation. The region benefits from several protected zones, including the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve, where whale sharks, sea lions, and other threatened species can thrive without being disturbed by industrial fishing. This protected status, combined with awareness efforts aimed at preserving marine ecosystems, helps maintain the delicate balance of these exceptional waters.

A Journey Between Land and Sea
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Diving in the waters of Baja California is much more than just an underwater adventure. It’s a journey to the very heart of the ocean's soul. The encounter with whale sharks, sea lions, and the discovery of La Paz's underwater world reminds us that the beauty of the marine world lies in the diversity and balance of species. It’s also a call to protect these fragile ecosystems, both fascinating and vulnerable, which constitute one of the most precious natural treasures of our planet.

Off the coast of Mexico, 240 kilometers from the Baja California Peninsula, lies Guadalupe Island, a marine sanctuary ruled by the most iconic of ocean predators: the great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias). This small volcanic island, battered by winds and surrounded by crystal-clear waters, has become one of the best places in the world to observe this sea giant.
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A Journey Beyond Time
Exploring Guadalupe is venturing into a raw and pristine world, far from human turmoil. Accessible only by boat after a nearly 20-hour sail from Ensenada, this isolated territory offers divers a unique experience: meeting the largest predator of the oceans face-to-face, immersed in its world.
In the deep blue waters, the silence is broken only by the gentle lapping of waves against the metal cage. The anticipation is a surge of adrenaline. Then, suddenly, a ghostly silhouette emerges from the blue. Immense. Graceful. Powerful, yet contained. With a fixed gaze, the great white moves with fascinating fluidity, revealing all the intelligence and curiosity of an animal often misunderstood.

A Fragile Sanctuary
While Guadalupe is a paradise for shark enthusiasts, it is also a fragile ecosystem. Since 2005, the island and its surrounding waters have been designated a biosphere reserve, banning all fishing and ensuring a protected environment for sharks and other marine species.
But the threat persists. Climate change, plastic pollution, and human pressure remain significant challenges for the conservation of these fascinating creatures. Observing a great white shark in Guadalupe, therefore, is more than just an extraordinary experience; it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting the oceans and their inhabitants.

Practical Information

• Ideal Season: From August to November, when the waters are richest in seals and sea lions, attracting great white sharks.
• How to Get There: Depart by boat from Ensenada, Mexico, with specialized expeditions.
• Skill Level Required: Accessible to beginner divers thanks to cage diving, no certification required.

Prepare for an encounter that will forever change your perception of the oceans… and their true rulers.

Great White Shark: Master of the Oceans
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The great white shark, with its imposing silhouette and sharp teeth, is one of the most feared and fascinating predators on the planet. Reaching up to 6 meters in length and weighing over 1,000 kg, this marine predator moves with an unmatched grace and efficiency. Its reputation as an unrelenting hunter is partly due to its ability to detect even the slightest vibrations in the water and its hunting strategy, which combines patience and speed. It primarily feeds on seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals, and its role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance is crucial. As a "super-predator," the great white shark regulates prey populations, helping to maintain the health of marine populations by preventing the overpopulation of other species. Despite its reputation for danger, attacks on humans remain extremely rare, and great whites are actually curious animals, exploring their environment and "targets" cautiously before retreating.

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Cage Diving: A Debate on Ethics and Conservation
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Cage diving to observe the great white sharks of Guadalupe raises ethical and environmental questions. On one hand, it allows enthusiasts to experience a unique encounter and raises awareness about the beauty and necessity of protecting these animals. Observing them up close, without disturbing them, can help break the stereotypes surrounding these predators and show that they are not the "monsters" often depicted in the media.

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