dan.org · Travel Article
Fakarava pass comparison and shark-wall context
Tumakohua Pass
Fakarava's famed south pass and wall-of-sharks drift.
Scuba DivingBoatAdvanced8m - 40m
CaveReef
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.
Safety & Access
Site Conditions
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.
Where Is Tumakohua Pass?
Featured Operators
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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.
Research Estimate At Tumakohua Pass
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Avg. Visibility35m
Access3/5 · Moderate entry effort
Coral4/5 · Healthy coral
Aquatic Life5/5 · Exceptional variety
Facilities4/5 · Good facilities
CurrentVery strong current
SurgeLight surge
