We have chosen to group our unique shark experiences under the same “Type of Safari” category. Naturally, it is the shark species that unites them, but that is where the similarities end. Whale shark safaris take place in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, while great white shark safaris are in the often chilly 13 to 14-degree waters of the Atlantic. The great white shark is a deadly predator, while the whale shark is completely harmless. There is a significant difference between a great white shark safari and a whale shark safari, but what these two extremes of thrilling experiences have in common is that they are both entirely unique—each in their own way. Below is an overview of these exclusive adventures.

Copper and Great White Shark Safari

Just a two-hour drive from Cape Town, or a 40-minute drive from Hermanus, lies the world-renowned fishing village of Gansbaai. Just off the coast of Gansbaai is Dyer Island, home to around 60,000 fur seals, which attract and provide food for the great white shark. The shark boat departs from Gansbaai, heading for Dyer Island. Upon arrival, you’ll be provided with a wetsuit, weight belt, and snorkel. If you wish, you can descend into a sturdy cage (securely attached to the boat) and experience great white sharks, copper sharks, or other shark species in their natural habitat. However, it’s not necessary to enter the cage—if you prefer, you can remain on deck and observe the sharks from above. This is also a thrilling and unique experience.

The shark safari from Cape Town, with the longer drive, takes about a full day. The trip from Hermanus lasts approximately half a day. The safari is weather-dependent and may be canceled in the event of bad weather (usually due to strong winds). The experience begins with a briefing and a light breakfast, and snacks and drinks are available on board.

This experience is recommended for anyone with an interest in experiencing something truly unique and learning more about sharks.

With many years of experience in organizing great white shark safaris, we have handpicked the very best partners to ensure your safety and make the experience unforgettable. Contact Safari Collection to learn more.

We have compiled the best accommodations in the area (below) to help you maximize your shark safari experience and make the most of your stay in the region. The area offers a wealth of activities, vineyards, and culinary delights. Contact Safari Collection to find out more.

Hermanus, South Africa

The name Hermanus comes from a Dutch teacher named Hermanus Pieters (1778–1837), who arrived in Cape Town in 1815. He was recruited by Dutch-speaking farmers who were unhappy that English was the only language used in all government schools. He settled in what is now Caledon, but taught Dutch to farmers throughout the region. In his free time, Hermanus Pieters spent time at a freshwater spring by the sea, which he called “fontein.” There, he would fish and allow his sheep to graze. The spot later became known as “Hermanus Pieters se Fonteyn,” which is what we now call Hermanus. Hermanus Pieters passed away before the village of Hermanuspietersfontein came into existence. 65 years after his death, the then postmaster decided to shorten the village name from Hermanuspietersfontein to Hermanus, as he felt the original name was too long for the postal system.

Birkenhead House

Elegant Birkenhead House majestically sits on the cliffs above the 21-kilometer-long Grotto Beach, offering sweeping views of the magnificent Atlantic Ocean. Here, you are promised an unforgettable experience in every way. The stunning views, exceptional room standards, impeccable service, and world-class meals make this a destination like no other. The tastefully designed suites are individually styled, each flooded with natural light and decorated to the highest standards, equipped with every comfort imaginable. Birkenhead House is adorned with a tasteful blend of authentic antiques and stylish contemporary furnishings, but nothing compares to the awe-inspiring and magnificent view of the Atlantic. The terrace at Birkenhead House is a gem in itself, featuring a small infinity pool, lounge beds, and one of the “world’s best views.” In addition to a small boutique, Birkenhead House also boasts an award-winning spa.

During whale season, which lasts from June to December, you can spot these magnificent giants (South Right Whales measuring 14-18 meters and weighing 40-80 tons) directly from your suite or from Birkenhead’s stunning terrace.

Birkenhead House is perfectly located for a shark safari, within an area offering plenty of other activities. Here, you can enjoy wine tasting, play golf, fly or try hang-gliding, ride on the beach, fish, or go on a whale safari, among many other experiences.

Children over the age of 10 are welcome at Birkenhead House.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve spans 3,500 hectares of breathtaking natural beauty southeast of Hermanus. This extraordinary sanctuary is home to ancient trees over 1,000 years old, 907 plant species, 118 bird species, 29 mammals, and 21 amphibians, showcasing the incredible diversity of the region. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean offers visitors the unique chance to encounter the ocean’s “Big Five”: whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins. Whether exploring vibrant fynbos landscapes or enjoying thrilling marine adventures, Grootbos promises an unforgettable blend of tranquility and excitement, making it a truly one-of-a-kind destination.

Grootbos

Exclusive Grootbos is renowned for its extravagant comfort, luxury, and magical views. The award-winning lodge truly delivers, offering a first-class experience for both body and soul. The lodge is actually two: Forest Lodge and Garden Lodge.

Forest Lodge is beautifully framed by Milkwood trees and fynbos. In the heart of this picturesque nature, you’ll discover a world of elegance and peaceful tranquility. The stylishly designed suites feature a sleek, modern aesthetic in earthy tones and greys. These spacious suites are equipped with every imaginable comfort and more. The bedroom boasts a king-size canopy bed with an enchanting view. The living room includes a fireplace, a large-screen TV, and the same captivating views. Outside, your veranda awaits with two lounge beds, your private plunge pool, and a spectacular panorama. The exquisitely designed lounge features a well-stocked bar, boutique, extensive wine cellar, and a renowned restaurant. Grootbos is widely acclaimed for its culinary delights, where every meal becomes a highlight. Here, delicacies from the sea are paired with freshly grown vegetables and herbs from their gardens.

Garden Lodge is the more child- and family-friendly of the two. Yet the themes of extravagant comfort, luxury, and magical views remain the same. The suites are of the same exceptional quality as those in Forest Lodge but feature a blend of earthy tones and vibrant, bold colors. At Garden Lodge, the focus is on family and children, offering a playroom, special activities for kids, and babysitting services. For adults, the lodge boasts an award-winning spa and an extensive wine cellar.

Grootbos is ideally located for shark safaris and offers a wide range of other activities, including horseback riding, whale watching, birdwatching, hiking, botanical tours, and marine safaris.

Children over 12 years are welcome at Forest Lodge. Children of all ages are welcome at Garden Lodge.

Whale Shark Safari, Mozambique

Mozambique isn’t a destination you visit for its wildlife—it’s where you go for the glorious climate, endless white sandy beaches, and the rejuvenating, 30-degree waters of the Indian Ocean. But there’s another reason too: the majestic whale shark. Safari Collection is proud to present whale shark safaris! This unique safari experience, combined with the stunning premium accommodations this exceptional country offers, makes Mozambique a dream destination. Snorkeling just centimeters away from these gentle giants, measuring 6 to 20 meters, in the warm ocean waters is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences imaginable. We believe it’s so extraordinary that we’ve chosen to feature this form of safari under its own category!

Spend peaceful days on the enchanting Machangulo Peninsula. Here, you can not only snorkel alongside the magnificent whale shark but also enjoy luxurious accommodations, miles of golden deserted beaches, and breathtaking natural surroundings—all of the highest standard. Alternatively, base your stay on the stunning paradise island of Benguerra. Located just off the coast of Vilanculos, this picturesque island offers opportunities to snorkel and dive with whale sharks, as well as fish, horseback ride, or sail on a traditional dhow, among other adventures.

Safari Collection has handpicked some of the finest accommodations Mozambique has to offer.

Benguerra Island

Benguerra Island in Mozambique is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Covering an area of approximately 55 km² (11 km long by 5.5 km wide), it lies 14 km off the mainland coast. Benguerra Island is a diverse ecosystem featuring forests, savannahs, freshwater lakes, and wetlands that sustain a rich array of flora and fauna. Freshwater crocodiles can be found in all three of the island’s lakes. Home to around 140 bird species, the island was declared a national park in 1971. Benguerra Island also serves as an excellent starting point to encounter one of the planet’s largest giants—the whale shark.

&Beyond Benguerra Island

&Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge is &Beyond’s oldest lodge in Mozambique, established in 1990. Since then, the lodge has undergone several expansions and modernizations, resulting in a total of 14 ultra-modern villas, including eleven Casinhas, two Cabanas (intimate honeymoon suites), and a two-bedroom family villa, Villa Zanzibar. The spacious villas are designed in classic colonial style, featuring earthy tones accented by touches of ocean blue. The bathrooms are beautifully appointed with bathtubs and stunning copper details. Each villa boasts a large terrace with a private plunge pool, hammock, and lounge beds. Additionally, there is a set of lounge beds on the beach, sheltered by shade, just ten meters from your villa. Exquisite meals are served in your villa, on your veranda, on the beach, or in the restaurant. For those seeking more adventure, &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge offers a wide range of activities (included in your stay), such as diving (two dives per day, PADI certification required), horseback riding, sea kayaking, and snorkeling.

&Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge is also a fantastic base for experiencing the gentle giant of the ocean—the whale shark.

Children of all ages are welcome at &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge.

Azura Benguerra Island Resort

Exclusive Azura Benguerra Island is an eco-boutique lodge, beautifully nestled among towering palm trees along the pristine white sands of the paradisiacal Benguerra Island. The lodge comprises 20 beachfront villas, each exquisitely designed with light textiles, dark mahogany floors, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private plunge pool.

Gourmet meals are crafted by internationally acclaimed chefs and include fresh seafood delicacies, perfectly complemented by fine wines from the well-stocked cellar. Dining can be enjoyed on the beach, in your villa, or in the elegant beachfront restaurant. The atmosphere at Azura is intimate and romantic, making it an ideal retreat for honeymooners. True to its eco-conscious ethos, Azura is the first in Africa to utilize Tesla battery banks powered by solar energy.

Azura Benguerra Island Resort is also an excellent base for snorkeling and encountering the charming giant of the ocean—the whale shark.

Children of all ages are welcome at Azura.

Machangulo

Machangulo Peninsula, located in the southernmost part of Mozambique, lies next to Inhaca Island, across from Maputo Bay. The peninsula, which stretches for 40 km and features pristine white sand beaches and dunes, was once part of the Maputo Elephant Reserve. Today, it is included in the Maputo Special Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife such as elephants, elands, buffaloes, giraffes, impalas, kudus, nyalas, waterbucks, warthogs, oribis (small antelopes), blue wildebeests, and zebras.

Colina Verde

Colina Verde is a stunning villa nestled beautifully among the sand dunes, just meters from the Indian Ocean. Located along a 40-kilometer stretch of secluded beach, it sits on the pristine coastline from the South African border to the top of the Machangulo Peninsula. This expansive villa features seven spacious bedrooms, accommodating up to 18 guests. Each room is individually decorated in a charming rustic style, combining traditional charm with modern luxury. Beyond the breathtaking views, each room is equipped with all the modern comforts you could wish for, including large private bathrooms. Colina Verde comes with a renowned chef who will craft your culinary desires with impressive results, and a dedicated team of staff eager to pamper you at every turn. The villa offers not only massive fireplaces in the common areas but also a library, billiard table, well-equipped gym, large pool, table tennis, and even a tennis court. In addition, a boat and vehicle are at your disposal, complete with experienced guides for high-quality excursions.

Children of all ages are welcome

Whale Shark Safari, Tanzania

In Tanzania, you’ll find not only Africa’s tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro, and the world-famous Serengeti National Park but also the legendary Zanzibar. Just south of Zanzibar, off the coast of Mafia Island, lies Thanda Island—one of the world’s most exclusive hideaways, renowned for its abundant whale shark population. Thanda Island is, quite literally, your own private paradise in the Indian Ocean. Surrounding the island are large numbers of whale sharks, and during certain times of the year, encounters with these gentle giants are almost guaranteed.

Our top recommendation for accommodations, offering the best chance to marvel at these graceful and friendly giants, is:

Thanda Island – Luxury Private Island

South of Zanzibar and just off the coast of Mafia Island lies Thanda Island—one of the world’s most exclusive hideaways. Thanda Island is your very own private paradise in the Indian Ocean. Spanning five hectares, it embodies everything you could ever imagine a tropical haven to be. Picture swaying palms and lush greenery, encircled by powder-soft white sands, turquoise waters, and coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. With air and water temperatures typically around a blissful 30 degrees, paradise truly comes alive.

Owned by Swedish visionaries Christin and Dan Olofsson, every detail of Thanda Island is crafted to fulfill your ultimate island dream. The sprawling villa, designed to host up to ten guests, offers every imaginable luxury. Alongside a meticulously curated wine cellar, you’ll find a Steinway grand piano, a humidor stocked with hand-rolled Cuban cigars, a massive TV for sports fans or Netflix enthusiasts, and an impressive bar featuring 12- to 35-year-old whiskeys and cognacs. The villa’s light, elegant interior is accented with bold splashes of color, creating a serene yet stylish retreat. Outside, a sapphire-blue infinity pool, an architectural masterpiece in glass, overlooks the pristine beach. For a more unique indulgence, a grand copper bathtub can be placed right on the sand, inviting you to soak as the sun sets over the ocean.

In addition to the villa, two secluded Bandas (traditional Tanzanian bungalows) offer a more private escape for those seeking solitude.

Thanda Island’s attentive staff provide a level of care that is unparalleled yet delightfully understated. From the moment you wake until you drift off to sleep, every need is met with effortless grace. The island’s chefs are celebrated for their exceptional culinary creations, whether crafted in the state-of-the-art kitchen, on the expansive outdoor grill, at the cocktail bar, or in the pizza oven. Meals are served wherever you choose—after all, the island is entirely yours.

For activity lovers, Thanda Island offers a private tennis court and an endless array of water sports to enjoy. Located within the Shungi Mbili Island Marine Reserve, it’s also a gateway to some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling on Earth. Explore vibrant coral reefs alive with colorful fish, sea turtles, barracudas, dugongs, and the majestic whale shark—or even encounter the occasional reef shark.

At Thanda Island’s spa, the entire island becomes your treatment room. Expert therapists pamper your body and soul against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, leaving you in a state of bliss you’ll never want to leave.

With ten suites and two Bandas, Thanda Island accommodates up to ten guests in absolute luxury.

Children of all ages are warmly welcomed.

Curated Add-On I

Elevate your shark safari adventure by adding a few serene days on one of these exclusive paradise destinations: the luxurious Thanda Island, the exotic allure of Zanzibar (Tanzania), or the enchanting Benguerra Island and stunning Machangulo (Mozambique). Here, you’ll discover—quite literally—a slice of paradise with powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and incredible snorkelling. Contact Safari Collection, and we’ll guide you to your dream escape.

Curated Add-On II

Enhance your exclusive shark safari journey with a truly unparalleled train experience. Begin or end your adventure aboard a moving masterpiece of timeless elegance and unmatched luxury. The world-famous Rovos Rail and the iconic Blue Train offer journeys spanning 2 to 15 days, seamlessly blending with our spectacular safari destinations. Let yourself be captivated by the grandeur of this enchanting, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reach out to us for all the details!

Curated Add-On III

Cape Town and its surroundings are a world-renowned haven for gourmet experiences. Combine your safari journey to this iconic city with a luxury tour filled with indulgence. Let us guide you to the ultimate wine and culinary adventure, where every moment is a feast for the senses. Contact Safari Collection to learn more and start planning your unforgettable getaway.