Boat in sea.

Come face to face with the marine Big Five in this little fishing town

My Beautiful World
Community
Nature
South Africa

 

The cacophony of squawks, squeals and screeches drowns out the crash of the waves. From the depths of the deep blue, beady eyes keep watch. A thriving ecosystem draws hordes of sharks to Gansbaai. And in turn, these predators attract tourists from all over. That’s why this is considered the great white shark capital of the world, and the ideal place to view the marine Big Five. After the famously feared creatures, there are also whales, dolphins, seals, and penguins who call this place home. With nature reserves scattered around this corner of the Western Cape, Gansbaai appears to be whittled out from the wilderness. 

As a result of its rich natural wealth, this area was favoured by humans even before civilisation. At the edge of Walker Bay Nature Reserve, a series of caves known as De Kelders contain early traces of humanity. Scientists have unearthed bones and tools between the jagged rocks of the Klipgat Cave, which prove that people settled here during the Stone Age. Khoikhoi people also used it in later years as a place of refuge. With a large window-like opening that overlooks the crashing waves, it remains just as inviting to visitors today. Nearby, De Kelders Drip Cave has a freshwater pool that’s ideal for taking a dip. 

Water shapes the way of life here and the fishing industry keeps many families afloat. Yellowtail, crayfish, and hottentot seabream frequent these waters, and all make for a delicious repast. The Fish Lady offers hearty helpings of snoek and chips, while Gansbaai Vismark serves both battered seafood and the freshest catch. As commercial boats head out into the bay, local anglers leisurely cast their lines from the shores of Die Plaat. This pristine beach stretches out for 17 kilometres from Gansbaai all the way to the Klein River Estuary.

Further down the coastline, beyond Danger Point Lighthouse, are two communities unique to Gansbaai. A colony of African penguins have set up camp on Dyer Island, which is recognised as a sanctuary for the species. Next to them, Cape fur seals soak up the sun on Geyser Island. Their presence creates a banquet for great white sharks, which is how the waterway between these islets earned the name Shark Alley. Adrenaline junkies can submerge themselves in these salty swirls with a cage-diving excursion from Marine Dynamics. But if the thought alone is too fearsome, a whale-watching cruise is also an enjoyable experience as southern right whales breed here from late winter until summer.

On land or underwater, it’s the untamed nature of Gansbaai that keeps people coming back for more. Here, sites that are historically significant and ecologically indispensable are enriched by the striking beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. This little town never ceases to thrill.

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