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Diving in South Africa

Explore diving in South Africa

South Africa’s waters beckon scuba divers to enter its wild and woolly realm. The dive experience here is as varied as the people, running the gamut from big sharks to throngs of tiny sardines. You’ll find tropical reefs in the northeast and temperate rocky reefs in the west.

Some of the best diving here involves colder water, strong currents and launching from the surf – bring your appetite for adventure and reap the rewards of marine life encounters you’ll remember for a lifetime. If you’ve ever been interested in diving with large creatures in epic seascapes, you’ve come to the right place.

Off the coast of Gansbaai you have the opportunity to cage dive with massive great white sharks. In the Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal you can enjoy warmer waters, coral reefs and lots of sharks.

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When to dive in South Africa

Be prepared for a range of water temperatures during your dives. Water temperatures range from around 57°F to 80°F (14°C – 27°C) in various locations throughout the year. Dolphins and seals can be seen all year, and the best time for diving with sharks is November-June.

Where to dive in South Africa

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Book your diving in South Africa

Common marine life sightings for South Africa

Calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sharks and Rays
Whitetip reef shark
Blacktip reef shark
Blue shark
Bull shark
Great white shark
Hammerhead shark
Tiger shark
Whale shark
Eagle ray
Manta ray
Ocean Fish
Seahorse
Mammals and Reptiles
Humpback whale
Minke whale
Seal
Hawksbill turtle
Loggerhead turtle
Common dolphin
Most likely sightingsPossible sightings

More Information

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South Africa: top locations for diving

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