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Cannibal Rock, located in Horseshoe Bay near the southern coast of Rinca Island, is one of the most celebrated macro and muck diving sites in the entire Coral Triangle. It is a must-dive for underwater photographers and critter enthusiasts.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Horseshoe Bay, south Rinca Island |
| Depth range | 5–30 metres |
| Current | Usually mild, sheltered bay |
| Visibility | 5–15 metres (nutrient-rich water) |
| Water temperature | 21–26°C |
| Level | All certified levels (mild currents, but cold water) |
| Best season | October–April |
| Access | Liveaboard only |
The cold, nutrient-rich upwellings from the Indian Ocean feed an explosion of invertebrate life that coats every surface of the rocky reef:
Cannibal Rock is a macro photography paradise. A 60mm or 105mm macro lens is ideal. The reduced visibility and cold, nutrient-rich water mean wide-angle photography is less effective. Bring a focus light and work close to the substrate for the best results. The sheer density of subjects means you can spend an entire 60-minute dive within a few square metres and still not see everything.
Naming note: The site's ominous name reportedly comes from historical references to the bay, not from anything in the water. The only thing you will lose at Cannibal Rock is your air supply — it runs out faster than you'd like because there is so much to see.