Nestled along South Africa’s stunning Overberg coast, Gansbaai, just 40 minutes from Hermanus, is world-famous for one thing — shark cage diving. This small fishing town has earned its reputation as the Great White Shark capital of the world, attracting thrill-seekers, ocean lovers, and nature enthusiasts from across the globe.
A Glimpse into Gansbaai’s History
The name Gansbaai comes from the Dutch word “Gans”, meaning goose, named after the flocks of wild Egyptian geese that once gathered around the freshwater spring near the old harbor.
The town began as a quiet fishing village in the late 1800s, when settlers established small cottages along the coast and relied on the sea for their livelihood. Over time, Gansbaai grew into a close-knit community known for its fishing, boat building, and later, marine tourism.
In the 1990s, as shark cage diving gained international attention, Gansbaai transformed into a global hotspot for eco-adventure tourism, while still preserving its small-town charm and maritime heritage.
Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai
What makes Gansbaai unique is its proximity to Dyer Island and Shark Alley — one of the few places on Earth where Great White Sharks are regularly spotted.
From the safety of a steel cage, divers can come face-to-face with these magnificent predators in their natural habitat. Most operators offer half-day trips, with full safety briefings, equipment, and expert guides who share insights about shark behavior and ocean conservation.
BOOK YOUR SHARK CAGE DIVING TRIP ONLINE
What to see and do while visiting
Beyond shark diving, visitors can explore a variety of attractions:
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🐋 Whale Watching: Seasonal southern right whales between June and November.
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🌿 Walker Bay Nature Reserve: Ideal for hiking and photography.
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🍷 Wine Tasting: Visit nearby wineries in Stanford or Hermanus Wine Route.
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🐧 Dyer Island Cruises: See penguins, seals, and seabirds up close.
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🏖️ De Kelders Caves: Ancient caves carved by the ocean — a hidden gem for adventurers.
Where Adventure Meets Natural Beauty
Gansbaai offers more than just adrenaline-pumping shark encounters. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and fynbos-covered hills, the town sits at the heart of the Walker Bay Marine Reserve, home to a rich variety of marine life — including seals, whales, penguins, and dolphins.
Visitors often make a stop in Hermanus, famous for land-based whale watching, before continuing their journey to Gansbaai for the ultimate marine adventure experience.
Getting There
Gansbaai is about 160 km from Cape Town (a 2-hour scenic drive) via Hermanus. Most travelers choose to stay overnight in Gansbaai or Hermanus to enjoy the full marine experience and coastal charm.
Make sure it is on your Bucket List
Whether you’re diving with Great Whites, watching whales breach, or exploring the untouched coastline, Gansbaai offers an unforgettable experience that combines nature, adventure, and conservation.
So, if you’re planning a trip along the Cape Whale Coast, make sure to stop in Gansbaai — where the ocean comes alive.
Danger Point Lighthouse
Standing proudly on the rugged cliffs just outside Gansbaai, the Danger Point Lighthouse is one of South Africa’s most historic coastal beacons. Built in 1895, it was constructed to warn ships of the treacherous reefs that have claimed many vessels over the centuries — most famously the Birkenhead, a British troopship that sank in 1852, giving rise to the “Women and Children First” maritime rule. The lighthouse rises 18.3 metres high and offers sweeping views of Walker Bay, Dyer Island, and the endless Atlantic horizon. Today, it’s a must-visit stop for travellers, photographers, and history lovers exploring Gansbaai’s dramatic coastline.