Per person for 7 nights — flights, hotel, dive ops, and gear-bag fees included. Typical trip lands around $1,650. Anyone can quote you a cheap flight; this is what the trip costs.
Prime months: Jan · Feb · Mar · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep · Oct · Nov · Dec.
Peak hammerhead season at Protea Banks: large scalloped schools, bull sharks on baited dives, warm 73–79°F water.
Sardine Run + humpback whale migration; ragged-tooth shark migration at Aliwal Shoal; best visibility up to 100ft, ~68°F.
Summer warmth (77–79°F) draws tiger sharks & occasional whale sharks to Southern Pinnacles at Protea Banks.
Boat/panga surf-launch from Umkomaas and Shelly Beach; Aliwal Shoal (sites: The Cathedral, Raggie Cave, Deadman's Reef, Shark Alley) suits all levels, while Protea Banks (Southern & Northern Pinnacles, depths to 130ft / 131 ft, strong currents) is advanced-only — both packed with tiger, bull, hammerhead, and ragged-tooth sharks year-round; water 66–77°F, visibility 10–15 m (33–49 ft).
Also known for: Sardine Run (June–July) — diving or snorkeling a billion-strong bait ball with dolphins, sharks, and gannets
Sardine Run Spectacle — Watch massive bait balls and predator frenzies from shore or boat in June–July.
Umkomaas Village Market — Browse local produce, crafts, and street food in the small town near Aliwal Shoal.
Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve — Hike dramatic cliffs and spot bushbuck and crowned eagles just inland from the coast.
Scottburgh Beach Surfing — Rent a board and ride consistent waves at this classic KwaZulu-Natal surf beach.
Shelly Beach Seafood Restaurants — Eat fresh line fish and prawns at casual restaurants along the South Coast strip.
The all-in above is the typical price. A few times a year, Protea Banks & Aliwal Shoal fares drop 25–50% below that. StokedFare watches dive destinations from your home airport 24/7 and pings you the second one crosses that line — free.