The best of South Africa - with Shaun Humphries
Adventure in South Africa!
Experience the best diving South Africa has to offer on this adventure. On this trip you will combine both the amazing reefs of Sodwana with adrenaline-pumping shark diving in Aliwal Shoal! This is an adventure you don't want to miss.
Sodwana Bay
Sodwana Bay, located on the beautiful coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, is renowned for its stunning reefs and rich marine life. Home to over 1200 known species of fish, the reef has become one of the most sought-after dive destinations in the world. Here, divers can experience an abundance of underwater life, from colorful tropical fish to impressive predators such as sharks, manta rays and turtles. The many dive sites offer different experiences, and each site has its own unique character, making every dive a new adventure.
In conclusion, diving in Sodwana Bay is a fantastic opportunity for both experienced divers and beginners to explore one of the world's most biodiverse marine areas. Beautiful reefs and impressive marine life combine to create one of the most memorable diving experiences available.
Your accommodation – Sodwana Bay Dive Lodge is a popular and well-equipped dive resort located in the heart of beautiful Sodwana Bay, one of South Africa's most sought-after dive destinations. The lodge offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect base for both experienced divers and beginners. The resort offers comfortable and modern rooms, including self-catering options, making it easy to feel at home during your stay. There are also restaurants and bars serving both local and international cuisine.
Aliwal Shoals
Aliwal Shoal, located approximately 5 kilometers off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, is one of the world’s most popular and impressive diving destinations. This rocky reef, once a sandbar, has evolved into a stunning marine ecosystem, renowned for its dramatic underwater landscapes and rich biodiversity. The reef is made up of a unique mix of hard and soft corals, creating an ideal habitat for both tropical and subtropical fish species. Here, divers can discover an incredible variety of marine life, from colorful small fish to majestic pelagic species.
In conclusion, Aliwal Shoal is a true gem for diving enthusiasts and adventurous travelers. The amazing biodiversity, impressive shark diving, and historic wrecks make this a unique and unforgettable destination.
Shaun Humphries
Our ambassador Shaun Humphries – Shaun is an experienced PADI Staff Instructor with over 20 years of experience diving worldwide and a lifelong passion for the ocean. He grew up in South Africa and has spent many years living and working in the area, where he has gained extensive experience and deep local knowledge. This local knowledge is something he will share with you during the trip to give you the opportunity to discover these destinations in a completely different way to a regular visitor.
Features
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Hluhluwe Game Reserve
In the heart of Zululand lies the oldest reserve in Africa where Zulu kings such as Dingiswayo and Shaka hunted and enacted the first laws to preserve wildlife. Today, the famous “big five” roam the savannahs of Hluhluwe Game Reserve. The reserve was established in 1895, and safaris are primarily the main attraction. The viewing points are mainly located at waterholes, which means that visitors have the opportunity to see the animals up close.
“Operation Rhino” was started here in the 50s and 60s, when the park became famous for its white rhinos. The park covers 96 hectares and contains an incredibly large variety of flora and fauna. The park is characterized by its topography, which has many hills. The park offers everything from safaris to bird watching. In addition to the fantastic guided jeep safaris, there is also the opportunity to drive a car on your own in the reserve where you will receive information about the route and what to consider. Guided hikes are also offered, which are very rewarding, especially early in the morning and in the evening when the animals are most active.
Itinerary day by day
Day 1-2
You leave Scandinavia to fly to Durban. Transfer to Sodwana Bay where you check in at both the hotel and the dive center.
Day 3
Time for diving – today we will do 2 calm dives to check equipment and balance.
Day 4
2 dives in Sodwana Bay followed by a Turtle tour in the afternoon/evening.
Day 5-6
2 dives a day in Sodwana Bay on beautiful reefs with lots of diversity. Evenings and afternoons are spent with shared meals and activities.
Day 7
Early rise for transfer to Hluluwe National Park where the day is spent in open safari vehicles hunting for the “big five”. Transfer back to Sodwana for a final night at the lodge.
Day 8
Transfer to Durban/Aliwal Shoals – For those who are only on the first week, you will be dropped off at the airport to travel home. For those who have chosen to stay for the entire trip, the transfer continues down to Aliwal Shoal where you check in to your new lodge.
Day 9-12
Dive days in Aliwal Shoal where you will do two dives a day – one shark dive and one reef dive a day.
Day 13
Transfer to Durban and flight back to Scandinavia
Day 14
Landing back home in Scandinavia with lots of wonderful memories and adventures to look back on.
Please note: Our program is only a preliminary plan that is influenced based on the external conditions that the weather gods reward us with. This means that we may have to move activities and dive sites to other days and also replace planned activities with alternatives if necessary. We ask you to be flexible.
