African Shark Diver

This diving holiday combines the sharks and large marine animals in Mozambique with epic diving in South Africa on the famous Aliwal Shoal. This is an exciting package focused on sharks and between Mozambique and South Africa dives, viewing the Big 5 in South Africa in Hluhluwe Game Reserve.

14 Nights, 18 Dives including 4 baited dives – Accommodation in Tofo Beach, Morrungulo, Ponta do Ouro, Aliwal Shoal & Hluhluwe

Package Info

Location: Tofo Beach, Morrungulo, Ponta do Ouro, Aliwal Shoal & Hluhluwe

Season: September – May

Advanced Diver

From $4000 Per Person Sharing

Need Help? Call, Send Quick Enquiry or WhatsApp!

Package Info

Location: Tofo Beach, Morrungulo, Ponta do Ouro, Aliwal Shoal & Hluhluwe

Season: September – May

Advanced Diver

From $4000 Per Person Sharing

Need Help? Call, Send Quick Enquiry or WhatsApp!

African Shark Diver

This diving holiday combines the sharks and large marine animals in Mozambique with epic diving in South Africa on the famous Aliwal Shoal. This is an exciting package focused on sharks and between Mozambique and South Africa dives, viewing the Big 5 in South Africa in Hluhluwe Game Reserve.

14 Nights, 18 Dives including 4 baited dives – Accommodation in Tofo Beach, Morrungulo, Ponta do Ouro, Aliwal Shoal & Hluhluwe

Join us on an adventure to dive with the multiple large species and see the big 5 on Safari

Bull Sharks (Zambezi Sharks)

Bull Sharks are commonly seen on the reef dives south of the Shoal. Many of the dives in the week are on reefs there will be opportunities to see Bull sharks on the dives. The Bull shark is one of the most notorious sharks in the ocean and responsible for many shark attacks worldwide. Like all sharks in the ocean as long as you know how to dive with them then there should not be a problem having a good positive experience.

Tiger Sharks

Tiger sharks are among the largest shark species. On average, they measure 10 to 14 feet (3.25 to 4.25 m). They have a stout body, a blunt snout, and a wedge-shaped head. The body is dark gray or bluish-green on top with a pale white or yellow underside. The dark, vertical stripes that give the shark its name are most prominent in juveniles and fade with age. Their large, cockscomb-shaped teeth are distinctively serrated with a sideways-pointing tip, which is ideal for slicing through tough prey such as sea turtle shells. Tiger sharks have acute senses of sight and smell, which are enhanced by a reflective layer behind the retina called the tapetum lucidum. They also use electroreceptors on their snout to detect the electrical fields produced by other animals.

Oceanic Blacktip Sharks

The Oceanic Blacktip Sharks are resident at the Aliwal Shoal. There are many to see normally on the baited dives and they are usually the first to come to the boat even before any bait is put in the water. These sharks are relatively safe to dive with and are a pleasure to watch, photograph and interact with underwater. The Blacktips are also seen on many of the reef dives and the dive masters use their own special techniques without using bait to bring the sharks in.

Ragged Tooth Sharks

The Ragged Tooth sharks are normally around between April and November but recently over the last few years there have been a few found in certain places around the shoal year round. The Ragged tooth sharks are probably the most famous of all as they are the menacing goofy toothed shark that populate most aquariums worldwide. There are a couple of very popular spots for Raggies around the Aliwal Shoal and these are Cathedral and Raggies Cave. Both dive spots have many Ragged Tooth sharks in season and sometimes up to and over 80 at a time.

Hammerhead Sharks

Our dives with the Hammerhead Sharks take place normally during the summer months on the outside edge of the shoal. We will commonly find the Hammerhead sharks in mid water away from the reefs when drifting in the blue.

Guitar Sharks

The Guitar Sharks are found in the summer months on sandy patches resting on the bottom. These sharks are calm and you should be able to get up close to have a good look at them and have a photo taken with them.

Leopard Sharks

The Leopard Sharks are found in the summer months on sandy patches resting on the bottom. These sharks are calm and you should be able to get up close to have a good look at them and have a photo taken with them.

Whale Sharks

The whale shark is the largest fish in the ocean, with the largest confirmed individual measuring 18.8 meters (61.7 feet). The average length of adults is typically between 5.5 and 10 meters (18 to 32 feet). Their bodies are dark gray or blue, with a distinctive pattern of pale yellow or white spots and stripes. This unique pattern is like a human fingerprint and can be used to identify individual sharks. Despite having a mouth up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) wide, the whale shark has thousands of tiny, vestigial teeth that are not used for feeding. Instead, they use specialized gill rakers to filter food from the water. Whale sharks have armor-like, retractable eyes covered with tiny dermal denticles for protection. They can also dive to extreme depths, with the deepest recorded dive being over 1,900 meters (6,200 feet).

Manta Rays

Giant oceanic Manta Ray (Mobula birostris): The largest ray species in the world, with a wingspan that can exceed 7 meters (23 feet). They are a highly migratory species that roams the open ocean globally in tropical, subtropical, and temperate waters. Manta rays have a flattened body with large, wing-like pectoral fins. They are typically dark on top (black, gray, or dark brown) and white underneath, with unique spot patterns on their belly that can be used to identify individuals. With two horn-shaped fins called cephalic lobes extend from the front of their head. These are unrolled to help funnel plankton into their mouths during feeding. Mantas have a large, wide, terminal mouth positioned at the front of their head. This distinguishes them from other Mobula Rays, whose mouths are located on their underside. Mantas have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any fish and have demonstrated advanced cognitive abilities in experiments, such as passing the mirror test. Unlike many other rays, manta rays do not have a stinging barb on their tail.

Day 1

Touch down, and let the adventure begin! From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll be whisked away to our magical lodge in Morrungulo. A seamless check-in later, you’ll be sipping a refreshing drink on the tranquil ocean deck, letting those stunning views work their magic. When evening rolls around, get ready for a chef’s menu that’s as diverse as it is delicious. Enjoy a feast for all your senses with mouthwatering mains and captivating sights all around you. Welcome to paradise!

Discover Morrungulo: The Hidden Gem of Diving Destinations Picture this: a pristine beach, untouched reef systems, and marine life so abundant it’s like diving into an aquarium. Morrungulo is one of the four premier spots on our extraordinary expeditions, quickly becoming the crown jewel of Inhambane’s dive map. For the past three years, the dedicated team at SDD has been crafting this underwater paradise, and it’s ready for you to explore. Imagine being among the first to uncover Morrungulo’s hidden treasures—it’s a dream come true for avid divers. The raw, authentic experience here is unmatched, with reef systems unspoiled and brimming with breathtakingly beautiful creatures.
Don’t miss out on this chance to be a diving pioneer. Morrungulo isn’t just a destination; it’s an adventure, a highlight of your expedition that serious divers cannot afford to miss!

Day 2&3

Kick off the day at 6:45 AM with breakfast on the ocean deck, choosing from a variety of hot and cold options to fuel up. Once breakfast is sorted, gear up for the morning’s Double Tank Dive. Since it’s the first day, we’re easing in with a 9 AM launch, returning to shore by 2 PM. As the days go on, we’ll step it up, hitting the water by 8 AM sharp for maximum dive time. Between dives, keep your energy levels high with snacks, fresh fruit, water, tea, coffee, or even hot chocolate during surface intervals

Day 4 – Transfer Day

After breakfast we gather our things pack up and move to our next destination 2.5 hours away, Tofo Beach.

Tofo Beach

Located in southeastern Mozambique, Tofo Beach is a charming coastal town that has transformed from a traditional fishing community into a diver’s paradise. While it may appear like any other African backpacker destination with its sandy roads lined with palm trees, friendly locals, and an abundance of affordable beach bars and restaurants, Tofo offers something truly unique. One of the main attractions in Tofo is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, the largest non-cetacean creatures in the world. These magnificent creatures can reach an average length of 32 feet, yet they pose no harm to humans. Unlike many other destinations where whale sharks are only seen during certain seasons, Tofo Beach is fortunate to have these spotted giants as permanent residents all year round! Visitors to Tofo Beach are treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they can encounter these gentle giants up close and personal. The crystal-clear waters of Tofo provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable swim with these majestic creatures.

In addition, Tofo Beach also offers a range of other activities for nature enthusiasts. The surrounding marine ecosystem is teeming with vibrant coral reefs, exotic fish species, with manta ray or humpback whale sightings high on our interactive species list. Beyond the water, Tofo Beach also has a vibrant cultural scene. The friendly local community welcomes visitors with open arms, offering a glimpse into the traditional Mozambican way of life. From local markets selling fresh seafood and handicrafts to lively music and dance performances, there is always something to discover in this lively coastal town!

Day 5&6

Kick off your day at 6:45 AM with breakfast on the ocean deck, enjoying some of the finest bay views around. Choose from a variety of hot and cold options to fuel your adventure. By 7:30 AM, head over to the dive centre where your gear is all set. After a quick briefing, it’s time to hit the water for two breathtaking dives. Between dives, we’ll keep you energized with snacks, fresh fruit, water, tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. As the day winds down, immerse yourself in Tofo’s vibrant musical and culinary nightlife

Day 7 – Transfer – Ponta Do Ouro

Today is the big transfer day! We will head off from Tofo at the crack of dawn 4am with snacks and a packed breakfast to go. This is a long 10 hour journey to the legendary shark haven, Ponta Do Ouro. This drive isn’t just about the destination; it is an adventure itself. With a perfect pitstops along the way and the cozy comfort of our van, you can snooze away and wake up ready for some serious shark action. Buckle up for a scenic ride filled with excitement!

Upon arriving from Ponta Do Oura, we will make sure your diving equipment is delivered promptly to the dive center, all set for tomorrow’s adventures. We will then check into our accommodation, followed by a brief tour of the area surrounding your lodge and the diving center by our guide. Then time to relax and indulge in a delightful dining experience at one of Ponta’s many fantastic restaurants

Ponta Do Ouro

Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique is a renowned hotspot for biodiversity, making it a must visit on your expedition. Over the next two days, get ready for an exhilarating dive

experience with some of the ocean’s most magnificent sharks. Pinnacles is the go – to spot for unforgettable shark encounters, earning a reputation for incredible, up – close

interactions. Descend to 30 – 40 m below the surface and immerse yourself in a world of wonder. As you ascend, glide through the vast deep blue , eagerly anticipating the majestic sharks that call this place home. Prepare to be awestruck by their grace and power in their natural habitat.

Day 8 & 9

Rise and Dive: Pinnacles Itinerary

Breakfast on the terrace starts between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, depending on the day’s conditions. Choose from a variety of hot and cold options while soaking in the sea views. Between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, head to the dive center where your gear awaits. After a quick briefing, we set off for two dives, focusing on the famed Pinnacles shark site. Want more? You can opt for a third dive at an extra cost, (If not already part of your package) During surface intervals, enjoy snacks, fruit, water, tea, coffee, or hot chocolate to keep your energy up

Day 10 – Transfer Day

Sadly, our underwater adventures in Mozambique have come to a close. But no need to feel down—it’s time to embark on an exciting new journey to explore the magnificent wildlife of Hluhluwe. On our way, we’ll make a quick stop at a local supermarket on the South African side of the border. This stop not only offers a handy cash point for any financial needs but also provides a wonderful chance to discover and purchase South African blended wines, specialty snacks, and unique condiments for a true taste of the local culture.

Let’s shift our focus from the ocean’s wonders to exploring South Africa’s incredible wildlife. After a brief 20-minute drive, we’ll cross the border from Mozambique to South Africa, 1.5HR LATER arriving at our vibrant 4-star lodgings in the heart of Hluhluwe’s farming region. Following breakfast in Ponta and with our luggage and dive gear securely packed in the trailer, we’ll handle any final arrangements before hitting the road. Our aim is to arrive by early afternoon, giving us time to enjoy lunch and then relax or visit the local Cheetah Project. As evening falls, we’ll dine at one of the many delightful eateries within a short drive of our centrally located accommodation

Day 11 – Safari

We usually kick off early, departing our accommodations between 4:30 and5:30 AM, depending on the season. Don’t worry about breakfast; we’ve got you covered with a packed meal. A short 15-minute drive to Hluhluwe Game Reserve’s memorial gate offers stunning scenery, setting the stage for a day of adventure. Entering the park between 5 and 6 AM, you’ll witness the animals gearing up for their day. The 6-hour game drive offers incredible opportunities to observe the Big Five in action. Around 9 AM, we’ll take a break at one of the park’s secure eating areas. By noon, we’re back at the lodge for a refreshing shower and some relaxation. If time permits, Safari Drive and Dive offers fantastic afternoon activities like visiting local wildlife sanctuaries, exploring gin distilleries, or taking a boat cruise to spot hippos and crocodiles. Our main focus is to provide close interactions with Africa’s renowned land giants.

Biodiversity Located 280 km north of Durban in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve spans nearly 96,000 hectares and holds the title of the oldest game reserve in Africa. This expansive sanctuary is home to the renowned Big Five—lion, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo, and elephant—making it the only place in KwaZulu-Natal where you can encounter these majestic creatures.

Day 12 – Safari & Transfer

With our trailer packed, we’re ready for our final three-hour safari. Armed with a packed breakfast, our mission is to catch more incredible land-based sightings or tick off any missed encounters from yesterday. After marveling at the Big Five, we eagerly head back to the ocean, wrapping up
our trip at the renowned shark mecca. We’ll also enjoy the wonderful hospitality of Scottburgh while diving at the famous Aliwal Shoal. We aim to hit the road by 10 AM, embarking on a short and enjoyable three-and-a-half-hour journey to this ocean paradise.

Day 13 & 14 – Shark Diving

Starting at 6:00 AM, enjoy a delightful breakfast overlooking the stunning sea views. If you prefer to skip breakfast in favor of the snacks provided during the double tank excursions, you can exchange your breakfast for a selection from the afternoon menu upon your return from diving. At 7: 30 AM, we gather at the dive center for a brief but informative session. Then, embark on a thrilling adventure with two exciting dives. The first dive, a baited dive, aims to attract around 20 sharks, including the awe-inspiring Tiger shark, for an up-close encounter. The second dive explores a vibrant reef, home to various shark species like Ragged Tooth Sharks and White Tip Reef Sharks. Prepare for unforgettable days filled with extraordinary underwater encounters and breathtaking views!

Aliwal Shoal, off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a rocky reef formed from an ancient sand dune. It’ s teeming with diverse hard and soft corals, marine invertebrates, and a vibrant array of tropical and subtropical fish. The name ” Aliwal Shoal” comes from the near-sinking of the vessel Aliwal in 1849, under Captain James Anderson. Close to this reef are two fascinating wrecks popular among divers: the MV Produce, which sank in 1974, and the SS Nebo, which went down in 1884. These sites offer a blend of intriguing history and thriving marine life, making them must-explore spots for diving enthusiasts

Day 15 – Transfer

Sadly, our adventure has come to a close. After savoring a satisfying buffet breakfast and ensuring all belongings are securely packed in the trailer, it’ s time to head to King Shaka International Airport. Conveniently just 1. 5 hours away, it’ s the final leg of our journey. Safe travels, and until next time!

Itinerary

Day-1 : Airport Transfer to Scuba Lodge — Overnight @ Scuba Lodge
Day-2 : 2 x Shark Dives Aliwal Shoal – Overnight @ Scuba Lodge
Day-3 : 2 x Shark Dives Aliwal Shoal – Overnight @ Scuba Lodge
Day-4 : 2 x Shark Dives Aliwal Shoal – Overnight @ Scuba Lodge
Day-5 : 2 x Shark Dives Aliwal Shoal – Overnight @ Scuba Lodge
Day-6 : 2 x Shark Dives Aliwal Shoal – Overnight @ Scuba Lodge
Day-7 : Airport Transfer to Durban International

The Aliwal Shoal Scuba Lodge

scuba_ odge aliwal shoal

The Aliwal Shoal lodge is a purpose built lodge for dive groups. It is overlooking the Indian ocean and all rooms have sea views and can accommodate for up to 18 guests in 9 comfortable bedrooms all with on-suite. There is an outdoor swimming pool, B.B.Q area (Braai) as well as Kitchen facilities, Tea & Coffee, TV, Laundry Service & WIFI Internet Access. All rooms can be arranged into either King Sized bed or 2 single beds.This is the only diving operation with all-in facilities and even it’s own dive centre! You will not need to go anywhere in the morning before the dives and just after breakfast stroll down the steps to the dive centre and then kit up. The boats are alongside the dive centre and once we have kitted up we will then load the gear onto the boats. You will travel than in a separate jeep in front of the boats down to the river estuary. The launch is a beach launch but fortunately most of the time the tide is sufficient for the boat to launch out of the river mouth so getting onto the boat is a breeze in the calm lagoon behind the estuary.

Then it is only 15 minutes by boat to get to most of the dive sites for the epic diving. Following the dive, we will return back to to the lodge in our wetsuits and then change under hot showers back at the lodge at the dive centre. Nothing is a struggle and there is an excellent crew available to look after your needs.

Facilities

Wi-Fi & Internet Access is available
Transport is available at the lodge
Swimming Pool
Beach Access from the Lodge
Local Excursions
Laundry Service

Flight Requirements

Day-1 : Arrive Durban [DUR] @ anytime
Day-7 : Depart Durban [DUR] @ anytime

Included

Return Airport Transfers
Safe Secure Transport
14 nights accommodation in Tofo Beach, Morrungulo, Ponta do Ouro, Aliwal Shoal & Hluhluwe
Breakfast
18 Dives
2 x Safaris exploring IMFOLOZI GAME RESERVE
Cylinders, Air-fills, Weight Belts & Weights
Diver Permits
30-minute back massage

Excluded

Flights & Taxes
Passports & Visas
Personal Insurance
Dive Gear [can be hired per day on-site]
Lunches
Dinners
Drinks

Morrungulo Accommodation

Perched amidst the serene coconut plantations of Morrungulo beach in Inhambane, Peri Peri dive camp offers a breathtaking beach retreat. With the Indian Ocean just steps away, this stunning vacation spot boasts unspoiled and pristine beaches, providing a perfect backdrop for a variety of activities. The resort is conveniently located within a short 300m walk to the beach, which is not only safe for swimming but also

showcases endless stretches of sand and picturesque scenery. Moreover, the surrounding waters host some of the most vibrant reef systems in Mozambique, ensuring a truly remarkable experience for diving enthusiasts.