South Africa Snorkelling - South Africa offers a wealth of snorkelling opportunities

Snorkelling in South Africa - The oceans of South Africa provide some of the most magnificent snorkelling destinations. There is an abundance of South African snorkelling locations with an even greater variety of incredible sea life and corel reefs to explore.

The KwaZulu Natal coast has become a popular destination for South African snorkelling and has attracted enthusiasts from all around the world. The immense variety of tropical reefs, ship wrecks and an absolutely stunning variety of sea-life make for a memorable South African snorkelling experience. The warm Agulhas current that flows down the KwaZulu Natal coast allows the tropical reefs to flourish, and the water seldom drops below 20º C, summer or winter. One of the most popular sites is Sodwana Bay situated in the northern region of the province. Sodwana Bay was voted as third of the 6 best snorkelling destinations of the world! Over 1200 species of fish have been identified here. Sodwana bay offers awesome snorkelling all year round but the best conditions are the warm summer months from November to May.

Aliwal Shoal near Umkomaas is also another popular destination for snorkelling in South Africa and is just a 40 minute drive south of Durban. The shoal comprises of a variety of sponges, soft and hard corals and a union of warm water reef fish and cold water fish. Situated 8km’s offshore from Shelly Beach, south of Port Shepstone is Protea Banks. Here hammerhead and ragged tooth sharks are often spotted. Without the cumbersome diving equipment synonymous with scuba diving, you’re able to move freely through swarming fish and around intricate coral reefs.

The Garden Route offers fantastic and scenic snorkelling spots. Knysna, Mossel Bay, Storms River and Plettenberg Bay collectively offer a smorgasbord of awesome and mystical ship wrecks and various coral reefs. The invertebrate life is every bit as colourful, with sponges, anemones, nudibranchs and lots more.

Cape Town is a great South African snorkelling destination if you can handle the cold water temperatures. Cape Town has the most beautiful and mystical kelp forests that lure you in the water. Mysterious wrecks, sharks, whales, penguins and awesome fish can also be seen. In the Eastern Cape, the water is noticeably warmer and you will find phenomenal vagrant tropical species. In the Nelson Mandela Bay there are great snorkelling spots especially at ‘the old pier’ where numerous species of fish, jellyfish and octopus can be seen.

South Africa has absolutely fantastic and picturesque snorkelling destinations promising the best of experiences and unforgettable sights. Be sure not to miss these fantastic South African snorkelling opportunities.