South African - Sodwana Bay Scuba Dive Destination July 16th, 2021
South African - Sodwana Bay Scuba Dive Destination
Sodwana is situated 400 km north of Durban near the Mozambique border and as such enjoys a tropical climate. The combination of tropical sunshine and the warm Aughlas current which flows over the reefs, has allowed the formation of a unique coral reef dominated by colourful soft corals.
Over 1200 species of reef fish have been identified in the area and the reefs are often visited by the animals such Mantas, Whale sharks, Zambezi sharks, Humpback whales and dolphins.
Some sightings are seasonal, such as the Whales, which are only seen during their migration from June to September. Loggerhead turtles are common year round, but from November through to January they can been seen laying eggs on the beaches at night. During this time you can also see the elusive giant Leatherback turtles.
Sodwana also has safe beaches for swimming in the sea. Weatherwise the best time to visit Sodwana is from March through to June when the weather is mild. July to September is regarded as the windy season, although pleasant. Although October through to February is hot with thundershowers, if you can handle the heat it is also a good time to visit as this is when the visibility is best.
Sodwana Bay is one of the most popular of the dive sites - means "little one on its own" in Zulu, is easily accessible, only three and a half hours - 4 hours drive from Durban by tar road. Temperatures are always above 21° C (70° F) and avergering 24° C - 28° C. There are many shallow coastal pools, which are suitable for snorkeling with interesting reef formations and fish life
Anton's Reef - 2 Mile Reef
Average depth is 15m. A fantastic variety of residential tropical fish and dense shoals of Big-eyes, Moorish Idols and Snappers hover above the coral. Scorpionfish, moray eels, big potato bass, marbled rays and triggerfish are a common sight. The coral is dense and varied, excellent for photography.
Pinnacles
Average depth 10 -15m. The formation of the corals resembles that of gullies and caves, sandy patches flanked by over-hangs, walls and swim throughs. Occasionally a visit from a passing shoal of dolphins, whale shark or large pelagics may be seen.
Gullies, Caves and Overhangs
Average depth is 10 -15 m. Resident potato bass are up to 1.5 m long. Sea turtles and rays are often seen here. A wide range of coral and invertebrates occur in this zone because of the shallow depths and good light penetration. Small sharks can be sighted.
Seven and Nine Mile Reef
The drop-offs and mushroom-shaped pinnacles, characteristic of this wonderful ref with its great diversity of marine life, make it a favourite among divers.
I hope that this information has been of help to you! Please do not hesitate to contact me for any further information that you may require.
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: [http://www.12234455.co.za]
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