Africa
South Africa offers incredible shark diving experiences and has pioneered shark conservation. The Cape Town area is famous for great white encounters.
Total Recorded
356
attacks on record
Fatal Attacks
56
15.7% fatality rate
Last 5 Years
42
peak month: December
Risk Level
low
relative to global average
Sharks in These Waters
Great White Shark
high riskCarcharodon carcharias
Famous at Seal Island near Cape Town for spectacular breaching behavior.
Max size: 20 ft (6m)
Zambezi Shark (Bull Shark)
high riskCarcharhinus leucas
Called Zambezi shark locally. Common in Durban and Mozambique waters.
Max size: 11.5 ft (3.5m)
Tiger Shark
high riskGaleocerdo cuvier
Found along the east coast, particularly in warmer northern waters.
Max size: 16 ft (5m)
Ragged-tooth Shark
low riskCarcharias taurus
Looks fierce but is actually docile. Popular in aquariums and dive sites.
Max size: 10 ft (3m)
Safety Tips
- ✓ Use shark nets at protected beaches in KwaZulu-Natal
- ✓ Avoid swimming near seal colonies
- ✓ Don't swim in murky water after storms
- ✓ Watch for shark spotter flags at Cape Town beaches
- ✓ Consider shark diving in a cage for safe encounters
Did You Know?
- • South Africa pioneered the use of shark spotters on mountains overlooking beaches
- • Shark cage diving at Gansbaai is a major tourist attraction
- • Great whites have mysteriously left False Bay, possibly due to orcas
- • The Natal Sharks Board has protected swimmers since 1952
Remember: Shark attacks are extremely rare. Millions of people safely enjoy the ocean every day. Stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and respect these magnificent creatures.