| Eco-tourism - the booming marine
eco-tourism industry and conservation sector have become
significant contributors to the country's economy |
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Marine wealth: More than 2 000 fish species, five species of penguin,
four species of dolphin and dozens of different whale species dwell in the
oceanic waters off the South African coast. It is one of the few remaining
breeding grounds of four of the world's highly endangered sea turtles and
it is also here where the Coelacanth - a fossil fish species, thought to
have gone extinct years ago - was discovered in 1938.
The cold Benguela current on the West Coast creates an excellent habitat
for large numbers of sea birds and pelagic fish like tuna, mackerel and
sardines; which are commercially fished and exported. South Africa is
also one of the world's best destinations for land-based whale watching.
| Over recent years, South Africa has also
become known as a prime shark
diving destination. This exciting activity has gained popularity
especially with the emerging adventure tourism market. Read
more on South African sharks... |
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Marine conservation is of prime importance in South Africa and strict
controls and legislation regulate eco-tourism ventures. Of primary importance
is protecting endangered species like the Southern Right Whale, the Great
White Shark, the Jackass Penguin, the Loggerhead Turtle, the Leatherback
Turtle, Heaviside's Dolphin, Cape Fur Seals, Petrels, Albatrosses and
the African Black Oystercatcher.
From the cold western shores to the warm, subtropical east of the country,
South Africa's spectacular coastline stretches along stunning beaches,
excellent surfing spots, coral reefs and protected marine reserves.
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South Africa: Is dramatically situated on the tip of the African
continent. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Indian
Ocean to the east. The great oceans meet at Cape L'Agulhas - also the southernmost
point of the African continent. South Africa provides excellent shark
diving opportunities. 
