Aliwal Shoal + Protea Banks
Shark dives off an exposed coast.
- Overall rank
- #13 of 20
- Editor’s score
- 8.6 / 10
- Best months
- January — February
- Go for
- Bull sharks · Tiger sharks
Why dive here?
A warm-season week can bring bull sharks, tigers, oceanic blacktips and hammerheads. Expect surf launches, current and changing visibility. Be comfortable with rough boat rides and open-water pickups before choosing this trip.
When to go
The best time to dive here is January — February. Check the linked season guide and ask your operator about conditions for your dates.
What to look for
These are the main draws. Sightings vary by site, season and luck.
- Bull sharks
- Tiger sharks
- Hammerheads
- Open-ocean drifts
Conditions and trip planning
Advanced; strong surface skills. Surf launches, strong current and exposed seas. Conditions can change quickly.
Trip format: Land-based launches from the KwaZulu-Natal coast.
About the score
Aliwal Shoal + Protea Banks scores 8.6/10 for diving at its best. The ranking favours sharks and other large animals, followed by reef health and variety across the trip. Price and travel time do not affect the score.
Underwater photos
Open a photo for its source and credits.
Dives on video
Watch for the conditions, marine life and pace of the dives. Each video shows one trip.