It’s hard to consider that one can get bored with deep sea diving and exploring the wonders of a coral reef. South Africa provides freshwater cave diving with the added beauty of the wild bush.
Boesmansgat, Northern Cape Province.
On a farm called Mount Carmel, 55kms south of Kuruman in the Northern Cape is the deepest dolomite sinkhole in South Africa – Bushman’s Hole. At just over 282 meters, this challenging dive site has had its share of tragedy.
The depth of the hole coupled with the altitude requires an extended decompression schedule. The water surface is about 100 meters in diameter but divers face a steep descent via rock face to enter the hole. An entrance fee is required but no accommodation is provided on the farm. Look out for the Eye of Kuruman in the centre of town – a natural spring from which 20 000 litres of pure spring water flows each day.
Komati Springs or Badgat, Mpumalanga
South-east of the Kruger National Park in South Africa is the 15 000 hectare Nkomazi Game Reserve. Elephant, cheetah and lions are just a few of the wild inhabitants you can find on your journey to Komati Springs farm which lies inside the borders.
When mining ceased in 1972, equipment was removed and the site filled up with groundwater. Today, it provides open diving to 55 meters and caves as far down as 186 meters. Due to its configuration, Komati Springs is a popular technical dive site. The dive centre provides rental equipment, gas, diving instructors and first aid facilities.
The eco-camp encourages one to unplug from the world and commune with nature. Solar power provides limited electricity, but campers are encouraged to bring gas or wood for cooking.
Wondergat, North West Province
About 60km north-west of Lichtenburg lies a natural sinkhole called Wondergat (Wondrous hole) . Even though its depth has changed from 70 to 58 meters over the past 50 years, it’s still not for beginners – they’re better off enjoying the excitement at Australian bingo sites instead.
The hole is about 75×100 meters with caverns and a cave called Leopard’s cave. Here, technical and advanced dive groups can train with skilled instructors and fill up with gas onsite. Self-catered and shaded campsites plus an abundance of birdlife provides a beautiful setting for a fascinating dive adventure.
While you are in the area, check out Marico Eye about an hour east of Wondergat. Four magical pools are linked with the deepest pool dropping to 13 meters with a cave at the bottom. Water lilies, fish, crab, eel and shrimp provide a wondrous fairy-tale dive.
To preserve this pristine site, only 8 divers are allowed in the pools at a time. Night diving is also possible and encouraged. Divers must bring their own compressors and there is no gas refill facility. Chalet and camping facilities are provided.
So, if by chance you find that the ocean has become too salty, adventure to South Africa where diving meets the wild and the southern stars shine down on you like diamonds.