dan.org · Travel Article
Fakarava pass comparison and shark-wall context
Dive Spot Guide•
Tumakohua Pass
Fakarava's famed south pass and wall-of-sharks drift.
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Local operator required
Conditions or access may require a local guide. Dive with a local operator.
An advanced boat-based drift through the south pass where tide timing, shark density, and pass geometry shape the dive.
About Tumakohua Pass
Tumakohua Pass is Fakarava's famed south pass, a narrow drift dive where incoming tide pushes divers along the wall of sharks. The site is known for dense marine life, clear water, and a protected setting that rewards careful tide timing. It is one of the classic French Polynesia current dives and is better matched to experienced scuba divers than casual reef cruising.
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Research Estimate At Tumakohua Pass
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 35m
AccessModerate entry effort
CoralHealthy coral
Aquatic LifeExceptional variety
FacilitiesGood facilities
CurrentVery strong current
SurgeLight surge
Where Is Tumakohua Pass?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
Tumakohua Pass Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
8m - 40m
Depth Note
Public guides place the drift roughly between 8 and 40 m, with the shark wall commonly worked around 25-30 m.
Best Season
June to October, with shark activity peaking around July.
Typical Conditions
Strong current, narrow pass, shark wall, and clear water.
Safety & Access At Tumakohua Pass
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Strong currentOverhead environmentDangerous wildlife
Safety Notes
This is a drift dive with heavy shark activity; plan for current management and avoid overhead areas without appropriate training and equipment.
Access Restrictions
Boat access from the south side; a professional guide is highly recommended and the run depends on the tide.
Legal Notes
The south pass sits inside the protected Fakarava reserve, so local access rules and guide guidance matter.
Local Intel For Tumakohua Pass
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
An advanced drift on the incoming tide through a narrow pass, with divers positioning near the shark wall around 25-30 m.
Wildlife at Tumakohua Pass
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Tumakohua Pass
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At Tumakohua Pass
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility35m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
