Gansbaai's Great White

Long feared as crazed, cold-blooded killers, white sharks are proving our first impressions very wrong. Cameron Ewart-Smith looked behind the hoopla, while cage-diving in the unlikely boom town of Gansbaai on the southern Cape coast, and discovered a majestic animal in critical need of some good press.

You are a thousand times more likely to die hanging your Christmas lights than to be attacked by a great white shark. Even dogs - our best friend - killed more people worldwide last year than have been killed by all species of sharks in the past hundred. With approximately 150 scalps a year, coconuts are positively bloodthirsty by comparison.

Even so, as a journalist entering the shark-infested waters off Dyer Island, near Gansbaai at the southeastern point of Walker Bay (close to where the Birkenhead went down), I was particularly anxious. If there's one group of people sharks should be peeved at, it's us. No other group has spread more falsehoods and hyperbole than the media... with the possible exception of Hollywood directors that is. If sharks were Americans they'd sue... and if I were a movie director I'd be safely ensconced somewhere high and dry in the Sahara.

Anxiety soon fled, however, as Brian McFarlane helped me and underwater photographer Geoff Spiby into the metal cage bobbing on the surface next to Predator II, the 12-metre catamaran he uses to take tourists shark-cage diving. He asked us to leave the scuba rigs on board and breathe using only our snorkels, as the mechanical sounds made by demand valves tend to scare the sharks - that's right, I said scare the sharks.

Unfortunately it was summer, not the best season for cage diving, but as we slipped into the cage the signs we'd have a good encounter were promising - a five-and-a-half metre female was mooching around. Let me say it again in case you glossed over that statistic... FIVE-AND-A-HALF METRES - bigger and heavier than a long-wheelbase bakkie.

As we submerged, peeping out from the bars and holding our breaths, the shark appeared out of the gloom. Passing within touching distance she glided by effortlessly, propelled by imperceptible movements of her tail. It looked almost artificial … as if she were a model toy driven by a little engine. The eyes were not those of a puppet, however. They were alive, assessing us, unfamiliar visitors to her aquatic realm.

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Gansbaai Accommodation

Gansbaai Shark Adventures Overberg Coast

Gansbaai, the "Goose Bay", was founded in 1881 by fishermen and named after the numerous wild geese that lived here. Until a few years ago Gansbaai, half an hour's drive east of Hermanus, was still a little fishing village with a little harbour, a fish factory and some shops and pubs. But for the last three years it's been much more lively here in Gansbaai. The place is entirely dominated by tourism and the number of inhabitants has multiplied.

The reason for this boom is Dyer Island, situated 12 kilometres off Gansbaai. The island itself falls under the administration of the Nature Conservation and is an important bird conservation area (Jackass Penguins and Oystercatchers). A huge colony of about 30.000 seals lives on the island, the favourite prey of sharks. That is why the waters around the island are teeming with sharks and there is hardly any place in the world where these predators can be watched more closely than here. Particularly strong in numbers is the giant Great White Shark (carcharodon carcharias), that can grow up to 8 metres long (3,5 metres in average).

Every day a couple of boats goes to Dyer Island loaded with adventurous travellers, diving equipment and cameras. After a 20 minute trip the boat drops anchor near the island. The sharks get allured, not fed, with bait - a soup consisting of minced fish and saltwater. After only a few minutes the sharks start circling round the boat, getting up to a few metres close. Some sharks even jump out of the water.

Each boat brings a steel cage along. It is lowered into the water amd drifts on the surface, tied to the boat with ropes. Those daring enough can watch and photograph the sharks from an underwater perspective in the safety of the cage - a lifetime experience.

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Gansbaai Accommodation | The Roundhouse

Gansbaai Accommodation:

Places to stay with Accommodation in Gansbaai which includes hotels, self catering accommodation, guest houses, bed and breakfast, game lodges, guest farms, golf lodges, caravan parks, discount backpackers lodges and cheap camping sites. Venues with Gansbaai Accomodation are listed above with all rates and details.

Self Catering Gansbaai Accommodation and Self Catering Apartments in Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa. Self catering units range from luxury to budget providing kitchen facilities allowing guests and residents to prepare their own meals. Browse for a Gansbaai self catering establishment, cottage, lodges, apartment or holiday house. Most self-contained accommodation is fully equipped and offer facilities to cater for yourself.

Bed and Breakfast Gansbaai Accommodation and BnB Accommodation in Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa. Bed and Breakfast accommodation range from luxury to budget providing overnight accommodation with breakfast included in the price. Breakfasts range from Continental breakfasts to Full English breakfasts. Browse for a Gansbaai bed and breakfast establishment, every b&b accommodation caters for breakfast.

Guest House Gansbaai Accommodation and Guesthouse Accommodation in Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa. Guest House accommodation range from luxury to budget providing a private home that offers accommodation to paying guests. Breakfasts and other meals are available at an extra fee. Browse for a guesthouse establishment which offers services that will suit your travelling requirements.

Hotel Gansbaai Accommodation and Hotels in Gansbaai, Western Cape, Southern Africa.
Hotels range from luxury to budget providing facilities allowing guests to relax and enjoy their stay. Browse for a reasonable Gansbaai hotel establishment that best suits you. Some hotel accommodation offer facilities such as airport transfers, laundry services and wake up calls.

Browse through pet friendly Gansbaai accommodation, venues that are wheelchair / disabled friendly, establishments with spas, plunge pools or fireplaces. Some places to stay have facilities such as air conditioning, baby sitting, bars, games rooms, internet access, room service, security staff, serviced daily or weekly and offer TV with Mnet or satellite.

For a list of all accommodation that is affordable and best priced, please have a browse through all our accommodation listings. Whether you are looking for something for the family or places by the beach, we try list the best priced and best specials so finding where to stay is easy. We also advertise team building and corporate accommodation as well as wedding venues in the surrounding area. Make sure to use our 7 day weather forecast and report to plan all the things to do while on your stay.

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Whale Coast & Overberg » Cities and towns » Gansbaai

Gansbaai is best known for a new adrenaline-pumping sport: Great White Shark cage diving. The diving cage floats just below the water's surface and in it you come face to face with the most fearsome creature in the ocean.

The boats for this adventure, as well as for whale watching trips around Dyer Island, leave from Kleinbaai Harbour, about 4km from Gansbaai.

Despite the emerging tourist industry, Gansbaai is still first and foremost a fishing village, with two harbours and many hardened fishermen. Those without their sea legs may prefer to do the spectacular 7km hike along the coast to the caves in neighbouring De Kelders.

The population of Gansbaai is said to have been boosted by the survivors of one of the worst disasters in British maritime history. The steam troopship, HMS Birkenhead, struck a submerged rock off Danger Point in 1852, drowning 455 men and many horses. The saying "women and children first" originated from this calamity.

Today you can visit a great local brewery named after the famous ship, The Birkenhead Brewery, in nearby

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Gansbaai Accommodation | The Roundhouse

Gansbaai Bed & Breakfast

The Roundhouse B&B is part of a total tourist experience in Gansbaai. We offer Gansbaai accommodation and bed & breakfast facilities in the undisputed best place in the world for Land Based Whale watching. This the perfect spot for a stay over when embarking on one of the famous shark cage diving excursions in the area.

The establishment is situated in de Kelders, which is the prime land based whale watching area in the world for Southern Right Whales.

The Roundhouse is a three stories high round building with a thatched roof. The house has a very modern African feel to it and every care has been taken to assure your complete relaxation and comfort rated 4* but with many 5* finishes.

The house has unique features such as a big projector screen television in the bar area and wireless hotspot internet connectivity throughout the house. This is excellent for anyone from conferences to movie buffs! The suites, which consist of a bedroom, living room and bathroom, have all the little extras such as microwave, toaster, coffee / tea facilities, bar fridge, Television, DVD player, Stereo, Hairdryer, Sewing Kit, First Aid kit, Toiletries and more.

Our breakfast menu includes delicious meals such as a full English breakfast, pancakes, health breakfast and the ever popular continental. We offer room service every day and offer laundry services if wished. For families, we offer a beautiful 6 sleeper self catering cottage just opposite The Roundhouse.

Please note that you have a stunning sea view from the top floor but all of our rooms except 1 are on the ground floor. Our new suite the Carcharias Suite will be up and running in June and has great views form the first floor. You are welcome in the lounge area upstairs at any time... After a long day out, sit on the balcony with a glass of Wine enjoy the sunset and stunning views over the bay..

Gansbaai Accommodation | The Roundhouse

Gansbaai: property values will rise

Gansbaai is fast moving towards becoming the Western Cape Overberg's new Hermanus.

According to Dean Yeadon of Western Cape-based 2tribes, the development company responsible for Baleana Bay, Gansbaai is the new kid on the block as far as property 'hot spots' go and he anticipates values rising dramatically over the next few years.

The only development to have been approved by the Gansbaai Council, Baleana Bay forms part of the coastal village's move from a tourism node to creating homes for potential buyers. Furthermore, the local authorities have recognized the need to protect the delicate natural assets of the area and all future developments need to fall within the clearly defined urban edge.

"The property purchasing trend is moving towards buying in those areas that have a strong sense of community and where purchasers are able to combine the natural goodness that life has to offer with a modern and well functioning environment.

"Our Baleana Bay development offers a rare opportunity to own a lifestyle that combines the natural beauty of this magnificent coastline in a modern contemporary milieu," says Yeadon.

Named after a flock of wild Egyptian geese that are alleged to have congregated at the freshwater fountain near the harbour, Gansbaai is every tourist's dream getaway complete with working harbour, Southern Right Whales, Great White Sharks and stunning beaches.

Situated between Hermanus and Pearly Beach, Gansbaai lies at the foot of the Dynefontein Mountains and boasts a coastline rich in fynbos vegetation.

Closely located to Dyer Island, the breeding ground of the jackass penguin, Gansbaai serves as the passage between Dyer and Geyser Islands respectively for the Great White, and is referred to as 'shark alley'.

Yeadon confirms that the area has all the right ingredients for country living and has grown into a charming village and holiday resort complete with a range of activities that includes whale watching, shark cage diving, angling, water-sports, and hiking.

"With its amazing attractions and activities, Gansbaai has earned a strong following both for families looking for action-packed holidays, and others who simply want to escape to the solitude of its beautiful beaches," said Yeadon.

With shark diving as one of its main attractions, Gansbaai has experienced a surge of tourism with many visitors unable to spend nights in the town due to the lack of top quality accommodation.

Yeadon says that his team will be encouraging non-resident Baleana Bay purchasers to place their units in a rental management scheme on a long term basis as a means to alleviate this problem.

"Baleana Bay will provide fully-furnished and serviced apartments with a host of amenities to both foreign and local tourists.

"Within the first year, developers can find themselves in the difficult position of needing to establish occupancy on a new apartment hotel. We believe we have found a solution to this problem through our rental management scheme.

"At an additional cost, we will fully equip and furnish apartments in line with the specifications as established by international tour operators. In so doing, we will also guarantee a 9% yield to purchasers in the first year.

"This will also give purchasers the flexibility of utilizing their apartments when and how they chose to and to secure income in the times they don't," says Yeadon.

The first urban high density development to be constructed in Gansbaai, Baleana Bay boasts 30 apartments with resplendent views of the coast and a sought after modern lifestyle package. Prices range between R725,000 - R3-million depending on individual requirements and finishes.

Construction commenced in January 2007 and 90% of the development has already been sold out. Yeadon anticipates occupancy to be achieved by 1st February 2008, giving purchasers enough time to enjoy the beauty that this growing, unpretentious haven has to offer.

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Gansbaai road to benefit property

Intro
New road from Gansbaai to Cape Agulhas has positive spin-offs for property market

The major new 65-70km road which is to be built between Gansbaai and Cape Agulhas in the Overberg region of the Western Cape is expected not only to have significant socio-economic benefits for these areas and the coastal towns en route, it will further impact positively on the residential property markets in those areas, says Glyn Bricknell, MD of Pam Golding Properties' Boland and Overberg region of the Western Cape.

"This is very good news as it heralds a major boost for tourism, as previously, the tarred road ends 20km east of Gansbaai - famous for its Great White shark-diving tourism - and visitors were faced with gravel roads through to Cape Agulhas, which is the southernmost tip of Africa. As a result travellers often simply bypassed the area altogether, which is extremely unfortunate as this is possibly South Africa's best kept secret with spectacularly beautiful natural scenery, and pristine beaches. The new road will also provide a huge boost for employment, with some 5000 new jobs to be created during the two-year construction period.

"In terms of the real estate market, news of the new road is extremely positive as it will create greatly increased awareness of the attractions in these areas, boosting demand for homes and resulting in increased investment in existing and new homes, and ultimately providing a greater return on investment for home owners," adds Bricknell.

She says the tarring of the final stretch of road from Gansbaai to Cape Agulhas will create a wonderful scenic circuit of the farms, beaches, nature reserves and fishing resorts of the area right from the Strand, Gordon's Bay to Kleinmond and Hermanus, Stanford, Gansbaai, Pearly Beach to Cape Agulhas, Bredasdorp, Napier, Caledon and back to Cape Town on the N2.

Pam Golding Properties is very active in the marketplace in the various towns along or in the vicinity of the route of the planned road. Gansbaai and the adjoining coastal towns of Franskraal, Die Kelders and Perlemoenbaai are already popular destinations and are connected by tarred roads. Here, prices for plots with sea views range from R200 000 to R1.1 million at an average size of about 600sqm. However stock is limited, and new seafront properties are practically unobtainable.

The areas of Kleinbaai, Franskraal, Pearly Beach and Die Dam, which lie further east along the southern coastline, are already connected by tarred roads, and these towns are developing at an extremely rapid rate. However, the creation of the coastal connecting road will open up the area of the old Moravian mission town of Elim with its original church clock, water wheel and picturesque thatched cottages. The new route will be called the Slave Route. Tourism will unlock the potential of this quaint village as well as open up the farmlands in the area to new investors, facilitating technological improvements and ultimately resulting in increased values.

At the Victorian village, Stanford, which is situated between Gansbaai and Hermanus, its proximity to the Klein River and scenic mountain backdrop make it an extremely sought after residential area, coupled with the fact that it is easily accessible. In 1994 a conservation programme was implemented, in order to preserve its Victorian character and ambience. PGP agent Jillian Smith says recently there has been a strong demand from younger Capetonians seeking a village where young families can enjoy a freedom of lifestyle, as well as a strong demand from the 'young retired' age group. Prices for two bedroom, open plan houses now range from R650 000 while river properties, when available, are priced from around R970 000. Occasionally one of the older, Victorian homes come onto the market priced from approximately R500 000.

Says Le Roux van der Merwe, PGP's area manager for the Overberg and South Western Cape areas incorporating Bredasdorp, Napier, Arniston and Breede
River: "Currently the best and quickest way to reach the already popular coastal resorts of Arniston, Struisbaai and Cape Agulhas is on the N2 over Sir Lowry's Pass and through the towns of Caledon, Napier and Bredasdorp, which is a trip of two to two-and-a-half hours from Cape Town.

"Because of their popularity, there is a strong demand for homes from both local and overseas buyers, which is resulting in increased prices. At Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai, stands with sea views are selling from R500 000 to R600 000 with one of the last remaining beachfront plots on the market at R800 000. Houses with sea views sell from R650 000 to R2 million and further back, stands range from R100 000 to R160 000, with seafront houses along the golden mile selling for up to R3.5 million.

The fishermen's cottages on the cliffs at Arniston, which in their entirety are a national monument, are a scenic backdrop to this coastal village, where property is also in great demand. Here, seafront houses change hands for over R6 million, with a recent PGP sale being for a home priced at R4.3 million, while another seafront house is currently on the market at R4.76 million. Seafront or sea view plots are unobtainable, while other plots are fetching up to R1.7 million. Further back the lowest priced house is currently on the market at R850 000.

Bredasdorp - whose surrounding areas are a haven for bird lovers - was established as a municipality in 1834 and is the supply town for the surrounding farms as well as being the seat of the Cape Agulhas Municipality. It is a charming town set against the Heuningberg mountain, with a population of about 10 000 and a good infrastructure and facilities.

Van der Merwe says house prices range from around R350 000 for modest homes to R850 000 for luxury homes against the lower slopes of the mountain. Erven range from R45 000 for 400sqm to R77 000 for 1500sqm stands with excellent views.

Adds Bricknell: "These south coastal areas have tremendous potential.
Farmlands which were traditionally used for wheat, barley, oats and sheep, are enjoying interest among both local and overseas investors, with positive results. Now, in the cool folds of the hills between the sea and the R316, vines are being planted, which because of the five degrees lower than average temperature, allows for harvesting during the day - eliminating the need for costly night harvests. Olive groves, also suitable for the Mediterranean climate, are appearing, while other new forms of farming include game, dairy and beef farming, and cattle and sheep stud farms - with the latter producing some of the most prized Merinos in the world, due to the good climate and the soil's rich nutrients."

The areas are also known for Australian fresh water crayfish and carp, angora goats, ducks, geese and ostrich, as well as for its fynbos - including proteas and other flora for a thriving export industry.

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The Roundhouse B&B

Boat Based Whale Watching

Land Based Whale watching is a must and simply impossible to miss in De Kelders. During Whale watching season (July - January) the bay is heavily populated with Southern Right Whales and Hump Back Whales. This beautiful coastline is so blessed with the shear numbers of Whales that come to the area that it has been renamed the Whale Coast.

Hermanus has been established as a large tourist attraction to overseas and home tourists for its Whales but is not however the only place or the best to view the Whales. Hermanus sits in Walker bay, a haven for these large Mammals as it is a safe shelter from the open seas and comfortable water temperature to breed. In Season there are over 200 Whales in the bay and for most of the time a majority of the Whales are on Gansbaai's side of the bay.

On the other side of Walker Bay from Hermanus stands Gansbaai and De Kelders. De Kelders is a hidden gem, not well known to the hoards of tourists that visit the area yearly. From people's experience here we are to believe that De Kelders is one of the best land based Whale watching spots in the world.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxing break away from the crowds and the commercial side of tourism and spend personal one on one time with a Whale in De Kelders. There are many kilometres of hiking trails along the coastline allowing visitors to take long walks whilst watching the Whales play only yards away.

It is not uncommon to be able to sit on a rock by the water's edge only 5-10 meters from a Mother and calf Whale. To be so close to these majestic mammals is extremely unique and this is definitely the place to visit to fulfill your dreams of being up close and personal with a Whale.

The beauty of De Kelders is that you can get close to the Whales without getting on a boat to see them. This is great for people nervous of boats or who get sea sick. The experience is still totally natural and just as special as going out on a boat to see the Whales.

The Whales are not just lying there in the water or moving along like many would think but they are playing all of the time. In season it is rare to not go through a day without seeing several Whales breaching out of the water. Below is a description of the type of things you will see the Whales doing in De Kelders.

Sailing

Sailing is when a Whale will raise it whole tail out of the water. It is unbelievable seeing this and difficult to believe how such a huge mammal can gracefully raise half of its body out of the water for a length of time. This is called sailing as it looks like the Whales tails are catching the wind like a sail. It is thought that they are doing this to regulate their temperature.

Spy Hopping

This is when a Whale lays vertically in the water and pops its head out of the water. The Whales do this several times in a row and as they can see clearly above water it is believed that they are just curiously looking out of the water to see what is going on.

Breaching

This is the most recognisable of a Whale's habits. It is a breathtaking site seeing a majestic 40 Tonne Whale launch completely out of the water and come crashing down onto it's back. The best time to view this is during October - November when the Mothers are teaching the calves to breach and you see them breaching simultaneously. If you see a Whale breach don't panic and drop your camera trying to catch the airborne whale. When they breach they breach from 5-8 times with an approximate interval of 20-30 seconds per breach.

Sun Bathing

This is seen very often and it is when a Whale lies on its back with its pectoral fins in the air waving them around. These fins are huge and it is a spectacular site.

Lob Tailing

This is very spectacular to watch and it is when a Whale fully raises its tail out of the water and slaps it hard against the water making a loud bang. The Whales do this many times in a row.

Mating

The Whales are not shy and it is not uncommon to see a group of Whales mating right against the rocks. During mating approximately 5 males try to Mate with the female and it is a fascinating site watching them rolling over each other whilst in the act.

Albino Whale Calves

3 percent of Southern Right Whales are born white and nearly every year we have an Albino Whale in the bay. This is a very beautiful and unique site.

Abundance of Whales

In peak season there are over 200 Whales in the bay and during October, November and December the winds are offshore SE which means they come from the land. This make De Kelders extremely calm and flat and the Whales tend to move across to our side of the bay. It is not uncommon to count 30-50 Whales in a day in De Kelders.

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Gansbaai, South Africa’s Shark Alley

From Cape Town to the Wild Coast, the Cape Coast is punctuated by idyllic towns and villages, each offering a variation on Cape hospitality, and each with a peculiar angle on marine sports or venture activity. None, however, can stake a claim to adrenalin fame quite like Gansbaai, a tiny fishing hamlet situated about 2 hours drive southeast of Cape Town, famous for its shark alley, and its dense population of Great White Sharks.

Gansbaai is one of the world’ top commercial cage diving destinations. The activity is focused on Dyer Island, and in particular a narrow channel between this and Geyser rock known as Shark Alley. Dyer island supports a large population of Cape Fur Seals which in trun attract large numbers of these deadly marine predators.

There are a handful of different operators offering commercial shark diving charters, but the opportunities do not end there. Whale watching is also very fruitful along this particular stretch of coast, and thanks to the adrenalin angle there is a small but vibrant backpackers culture that is very well linked to the Cape Town and more general South African backpackers lodge fraternity.

An annual Great White Shark Festival is staged in the town in October, which, if anyone had failed to notice the fact, celebrates and draws attention to the iconic attraction of the region…the Great White Sharks.

There is much more to the area than this, though, and the usual fare of great beaches, great food and great wine are all standards of the East Coast and the Garden Route, and if you are in the market for some hard core adventure, or you are simply a lover of great nature, check out Gansbaai as you make your way up or down the coast.

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Gansbaai Bed & Breakfast

Fun in the cities

Don�t feel stuck in a rut when you�re staying in a city or town - in South Africa there�s plenty of urban adventure just around the corner. Indeed you�re missing out if you ignore the vibrant variety of multi-ethnic experiences waiting for you on your doorstep.

City Highlights

Bloemfontein: Due to its central location, South Africa`s judicial capital, Bloemfontein, is a popular conference and convention centre. Known as the "City of Roses" the city has many gracious historical buildings, with numerous reminders of the Anglo-Boer War, including the War Museum of the Boer Republics and the National Women`s Memorial. The city is also known for its National Museum and Sand du Plessis Theatre, where opera, ballet and orchestral concerts are performed.

Cape Town: Known affectionately as the "Mother City", Cape Town is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Table Mountain provides a stunning backdrop for both the city and the Victoria and Alfred waterfront. An array of South Africa`s glorious flora greets visitors at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, while visits to the former prison colony of Robben Island depart from the harbourfront.

Durban: With its ideal climate, golden beaches, warm sea suitable for surfing, and lively atmosphere, Durban has been dubbed South Africa`s "Sunshine Playground". The vibrant Victoria Street Market, with its Indian shops and stalls, the Oceanarium and Sea World, City Hall and other old buildings, make Durban a firm favourite amongst visitors.

East London: South Africa`s only river port, offers all the amenities for family fun, with its sweeping white beaches and numerous watersports options.

Johannesburg: A great city for shopping, eating out and nightlife, Johannesburg is the commercial heartbeat of South Africa. Visit Museum Africa, which offers a superb insight into the country`s history or the Johannesburg Art Gallery, to see exquisite South African and international works. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has a public gallery, while on the city outskirts is "Gold Reef City", a re-creation of the city when it was a turn-of-the-century gold mining town.

Kimberley: "The City of Diamonds" and capital of the Northern Cape, Kimberley retains reminders of its heady, diamond-rush past with the Kimberley Mine Museum and Big Hole, the result of the diamond diggers` excavations.

Port Elizabeth: The Victorian houses in Donkin Street indicate the "Friendly City`s" British settler past. The city also boasts lovely beaches and family entertainment such as the Oceanarium and Snake Park. It is a good jumping off point for the Garden Route.

Pretoria: This is an attractive metropolis, with much to entice the visitor including museums and historic buildings, like the Union Buildings as well as the Kruger House Museum and Melrose House on the old Church Square, the imposing Voortrekker Monument and other attractions including an excellent zoo and botanical gardens. Pretoria is nicknamed "Jacaranda City" because of the purple-blossomed trees which bloom in late-September and October.

Festivals

Most cities have annual shows or fairs, offering entertainment of every kind, presenting the city�s special talents and drawing large crowds.

Many are beginning to offer informal music festivals on weekend afternoons or late into the evening. These vary from classical string ensembles to jazz groups or feature national and international singers.

The International Eisteddfod of South Africa is a music and dance festival, with elements of folk as well as classical traditions. It attracts high-quality competitors from all nine provinces and entries from as many as 30 other countries. The event lasts about 10 days and takes place in September in Roodepoort near Johannesburg.

The Standard Bank National Arts Festival held in Grahamstown in the first two weeks of July is described as "Africa�s Greatest Cultural Kaleidoscope".

Featuring dance, theatre, music, opera, fine art, film, craft-art (traditional skills) and cabaret, the festival attracts over 50,000 visitors annually.

Flea Markets and Shopping
Flea markets are to be found in all South Africa�s major cities, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth to name but a few. They operate mainly during weekends, giving small traders the chance to sell a wide range of South African crafts and providing shoppers with the opportunity to pick up unusual souvenirs at cheap prices.

Visit the huge flea market at Bruma Lake near Eastgate shopping centre, a mere 15 minutes� drive from central Johannesburg.

Close to the flea markets are the sophisticated shopping centres and malls providing a totally different experience, but offering bargains just the same.

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Shark Attack - Does Cage Diving Increase The Risks?

Gaansbaai Accommodation | The Round House

There is a massive debate raging about whether cage diving is causing shark attacks to increase in frequency.

The cage diving detractors say that we are conditioning sharks to associate humans with food because many of the cage diving operators use food thrown overboard into the water to attract the sharks closer to the boats. This practice is known as chumming.

They also make use of bait on a hook to bring the sharks closer to the cage once the divers have climbed inside.

The reasoning is that when the sharks find humans in the water at other times they will be expecting food too and this causes attacks on swimmers and surfers in the area to increase.

South Africa is at the forefront of these allegations because the cage diving industry is based on the Western Cape shoreline there and the shark attack figures show an upward trend from the time that the industry was established and become more active. There have been nine attacks in all between the years 2000 and 2005 and three of them have been fatal.

Not a great number by any stretch of the imagination but more than there were before the time of shark cage diving which plunges about 100 000 people into the ocean per year to come face to face with these huge predators.

So if you want to go cage diving anywhere in the world, should you be worried from an ethical point of view that you might be the cause of a shark attack on a swimmer somewhere in future?

What The Research Says

No less than the World Wildlife Federation has done research on this issue and they report that there is no scientific link between cage diving and shark attacks.

And the Shark Trust based in South Africa concludes the same thing from their research. Not enough evidence especially seeing as though most of the attacks take place away from cage diving locations.

The city of Cape Town has also done its research since 1998 and they also conclude that those who are talking about a causal link are clutching at straws.

So from the scientific community’s point of view there is no link between shark attacks and cage diving.

So Why Are The Number Of Attacks Increasing?

There is no definitive answer to that but these are some of the theories put forward by the International Shark Attacks File (ISAF) foundation: There are simply more people swimming, surfing, body boarding and windsurfing in the ocean which means that the chances for an encounter with a shark are statistically increasing.

In addition, due to recent technological advances in the manufacture of wetsuits people are able to stay in the water for longer periods.

Something else that has improved is the efficiency with which shark attacks are reported and recorded worldwide in the last decade which could also account for a seeming up tick in attacks but which in reality was an under reporting in the past.

So for the moment (there might be some scientific evidence that proves to the contrary in future) there is no link between cage diving and shark attacks so if you want to go and experience these amazing predators at close quarters you can do it with a clear conscience.

If your nerves can stand it that is...

This collection of trip reports and reviews gives an idea of what it's really like to go diving with sharks in locations worldwide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bruce_Whittaker

CONSERVATION AND ECO TOURISM

Gansbaai Accomodation | The Round House

http://www.gansbaaiinfo.com

The main reason that the Danger Point Peninsula area has become a premier nature destination is the fact that conservation of both the marine- and land-based nature has been embraced by all layers of society. Conservation in this area is not restricted to the several public nature reserves. Many private landowners have embarked on extensive alien-vegetation clearing operations as well as the restoration of indigenous vegetation and reforestation. By means of these programs, several red data species have been saved from immediate extinction. Thousands of hectares of private land have been brought into conservancies, the oldest and the largest whereof is the Walker Bay Conservancy from Stanford in the North to Grootbos and Flower Valley in the South. To read about this project of landowners who are determined to ensure the preservation of the natural splendour of the Walker Bay region, see www.fynbos.co.za

The Agulhas Biodiversity Initiative (ABI) has created a fresh approach in the region to the sustainable use of natural resources. This has resulted in the implementation of new standards in the picking of indigenous flowers for the cut-flower trade. The Lamond vineyards at the Kraaiboschdam has been the first vineyard that worked purely on the basis of organic fertilisers and sound-guns, instead of real guns, are used to chase antelopes away that aim for the fresh shoots of the vines. The population in Masakhane cherishes the old milkwoods that line the streets of the townships and locals of De Kelders embark on weekend missions to clear the coastal vegetation of invasive alien trees. The project to tar the road from Gansbaai to Elim is a project that goes beyond a pure engineering feat. As a unique feature in the Western Cape, the whole project has a clear nature conservation aspect to it. In the process, the original waterflows of swamps and rivers will be restored and both sides of the road will be cleared from invasive vegetation for a minimum of 50 meters.

The whale boat operators work closely together with marine biologists and strictly obey the prescribed 300 meter distance from any whales (the whales could not care less about this rule and come up to a few centimetres of the stationary boats). The local boat operators and its employees are furthermore strongly involved in the protection of African penguins and other seabirds and immediately come into action in case news comes in of yet another "oilspill of unknown origin". With the establishment of the Agulhas National Park, as the core of the Agulhas Biodiversity Initiative, an ambitious program has been set into motion that should result in a mega-reserve between Stanford and De Hoop Nature Reserve in which all the animals that once were common in this area will be re-introduced.

The conservation efforts as described above are immediately visible for the tourists and other guests to the area of Gansbaai. Marine biologists on board of the whale watching boats will passionately explain about the threats to the marine life and the measures taken to protect it. Most of the nature reserves and fynbos estates are open to the public, either for day-visits or -trails or for residential guests in top-of-the-bill lodges or rural self catering cottages. Guides will show the enormous efforts put into the restoration of indigenous vegetation and the safe-guarding of the vast tracts of natural land. The lodges and retreats in the hinterland work as a rule on the basis of eco-friendly techniques: water is recycled and waste-management is strictly applied.

Various education- and upliftment- programs are organised and funded by nature lodges and -notably Grootbos private nature reserve- has obtained national and international acclaim for their successful efforts in this respect. If you want to know more about conservation efforts in the whole of the Western Cape, please check out www.capeaction.org.za the website of C.A.P.E. (Cape Action for People & Environment)

Gansbaai Activities

Gansbaai Accomodation | The Round House

White Shark Diving

• Tour Price = R1100
• Duration = 4 to 6 hours
• Included = Breakfast, Lunch, Drinks and Snacks, All gear
• Bring: Hat, Sunscreen, Board Shorts / Swimming Costume, Sunglasses, Camera, Towel

This is possibly the greatest thrill that you will ever experience. Just imagine pulling up on the boat in 'Shark Alley', the open stretch of water between the mainland and Dyer Island off Gansbaai, South Africa referred to as the White Shark Diving capital of the world. The wonderful thing about shark diving in Gansbaai is that you only have to take a 20 minute boat ride to Dyer Island. In the winter time we can even see sharks before the shark chum is dropped into the water and it is clear to see why Gansbaai is named as being the most densely populated area for Great White Sharks in the World. We get White Sharks here along the coast all year round but Winter is the best time to come and see these beautiful animals.

The beauty is that in Gansbaai you do not have to be a qualified diver to see the Great White Sharks from the boat or cage. As the cages are mounted next to the boat and floated on the surface it is very easy for inexperienced divers to jump in and take a good look at the Great Whites as they cruise past the cage. For most of the year the divers do not use air or snorkels in the cage as the bubbles tend to make the Great White Sharks nervous and very cautious. We want the shark to be comfortable with the boat and people diving in the cages so that they will come as close as possible. It is not uncommon for a shark's pectoral fin to glide just into the gap in the cage as it swims past.

It is important to stress that you do not have to dive in the cage to see the Great White Sharks. The boat based viewing all year round is exceptional and there are many people who just take the trip to see the Great White Sharks from the boat. Unfortunately there is no difference in price to just view the sharks from the boat. The costs involved are virtually the same with the Chum, Bait, Catering, Crew, Fuel and Environmental taxes. It is simply a bonus if you decide when out there to slip on a wetsuit and jump in the cage to have a closer look.