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South Africa has earnt herself the nickname of the Rainbow Nation – a term that reflects the enormous diversity of cultures and stunning landscapes that span this gigantic country. South Africa is home to some of the world’s largest animals and is famous for her elephants, lions and buffalo that endlessly patrol the plains. Land safaris have long been a popular choice for travelers to this remarkable country, but there is also some of the most dramatic scuba diving you could hope for lying along the Eastern coastline. The Scuba Travel tour offers the best of both worlds and gets you up close and personal with some of the most exciting beasties, both on land and underwater.

Under the skilled and knowledgeable supervision of Immerse Yourself Safaris, exploring South Africa is an exhilarating experience. In the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the diving out of Aliwal Shoal and Sodwana Bay is not for the faint hearted. Tiger sharks and ragged tooth sharks roam the area freely and encounters will get every pulse racing. At every step, a thorough and luxurious service is guaranteed. Flights are with Emirates into Johannesburg, from which you are whisked by air to Durban to join the group. Striking the right balance between underwater and land activities, South Africa is a destination of dreams and will leave you breathless, whatever time of year you visit.

South Africa Travel Information

Location: The Republic of South Africa is a country located at the southern tip of Africa, with a 1,739 miles coastline on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The country of South Africa spreads across more than 385,000 square miles, incorporating a variety of landscapes such as sea, mountains, plains and deserts. Akin to its various landscapes, the country has a very diverse population. These aspects combine to make South Africa the continent's leading economic power.

Languages: 11 official languages: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Sepedi, Sesotho, siSwati, Xitsonga, Setswana, Tshvenda, Xhosa and Zulu.

Religion: 68% Christians (Anglicans, Methodists, Roman Catholics and various black independent churches such as the Christian Church of Zion); 2% Muslims; 1.5% Hindus as well as 28% of local traditional religion and animism.

Time: GMT + 1 (from the last Friday in April to last Thursday in September)

Weather & Water Temperature: South Africa’s climate is generally sunny and pleasant. Winters are usually mild, although snow falls on the mountain ranges of the Cape and Natal and occasionally in lower-lying areas, when a brief cold spell can be expected throughout the country. Air temperature ranges from 19°C in June to 28°C in February. Water temperature is around 19°C in July and 28°C in February.


Electricity: 220/240 volts AC; 250 volts AC (Pretoria), 50Hz three-pin round plugs are in use. It’s advisable to take an adaptor, as they are not widely available. We also highly recommend that you take a surge adaptor with you if using expensive and valuable appliances. If you have a specific electrical requirement please contact one of the Scuba Team who can discuss this with you and advise you accordingly.

Currency: South African currency is the rand. . Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. The vast majority of services such as hotels, restaurants, boutiques accept international credit cards (Visa and Mastercard being the most popular)

Tipping: It is custom to leave a tip to waiters, luggage carriers and taxi drivers. If you are unsure what to give please do hesitate to speak with the local dive guide or contact us.

Visas: UK passport holders on holiday for less than 90 days do not require a visa. Non UK passport holders can contact the South African embassy on +44 (0)207 451 7299

Food & Drink: The biggest form of health problems with divers and tourists alike is being dehydrated. Please drink plenty of water before and after a dive as well as throughout the day. We also advise that you don’t drink the local water and only drink bottle water and wash all fruit beforehand.

Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice: For up to date advice on foreign travel please visit http://www.fco.gov.uk.

Health & Vaccinations: Requirements vary from country to country, your own GP is the best person to speak to regarding relevant requirements. Make your GP aware that you will be scuba diving, as some medication is not recommended for Scuba divers.

Clothing: The seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are directly opposite those of the Northern Hemisphere. For summer months lightweight (cottons and linens), short-sleeved clothes are best. A light jersey/jumper might be needed for the cooler evenings. Umbrellas and raincoats are essential for the summers and the Western Cape winters. Warmer clothes are needed for the winter months. A waterproof jacket is essential for the Sardine Run tours.

Passports: Passports much be valid for at least 6 months on your return to the UK.