Marine Life | Wildlife | Wild Safari Guide

Serengeti of the Sea

The 30,500-kilometre coastline of Africa and its immediate surroundings are teeming with a marine life rich in biodiversity. Designated conservation zones abound for those interested in safaris to observe the water-loving creatures of the continent, whether they are breaching, lob-tailing, fluking, blowing, or spy-hopping.

A variety of ecosystems in the underwater wonder world of Africa has given rise to the nickname ‘The Serengeti of the Sea’ and are home to thousands of species that rival their land-dwelling cousins. These include some of the biggest animals that roam the oceans surrounding the continent—whales, sharks, dolphins, manta rays, seals, and a plethora of fish, as well as seabirds.

Great white sharks, southern right whales, bottlenose dolphins, Cape fur seals and African penguins are regarded as the Marine Big Five. Each is as unique as can be expected.

Best Time to marvel

There are vast stretches along the African coastline where visitors are sure to discover the local marine marvels, mostly from June till September when it is bloom time for mating and breeding. From the Cape coast, all the way up the East coast of Africa and into northern shores of Egypt and Morocco, the antics of species big and small, powerful and dainty will create the most memorable of experiences.

Where Two Oceans Meet

The distinct aquatic system at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian oceans at the southernmost tip of the continent must be regarded as the prime location to see sharks, whales, dolphins and other species in action. Along the Garden Route, between the Western and Eastern Cape, there are hot spots, fertile breeding ground and active hunting territories at Dassen Island, Dyer Island, Boulders Beach, Gansbaai, Hermanus, Mossel Bay, St. Croix Island, and Port Elizabeth.

Further along the South African east coast, the great sardine migration in June and July makes for impressive and spectacular viewing. The abundant food source that these massive shoals bring, attract other super species like sharks, whales, dolphin pods numbering in the thousands, as well as an array of seabirds.

For the Adventurous

For the more adventurous safari-goers, a variety of activities are on offer that comprises of interactions with Africa’s marine life. An important note— visitors should make sure to choose an ethical operator when deciding to participate in any one of these activities.

Popular Coastal Destinations

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