Welcome to Ocean Adventures: Your 10-step Guide to Exploring Sodwana’s Amazing Waters!

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey beneath the surface of the sea? I’m here to guide you through ten essential steps for exploring the magical underwater world of Sodwana.

Step 1: Discover the Beauty

First things first – get ready to have your breath taken away. When you dip beneath the waves, you’ll enter a whole new world filled with vibrant coral reefs, graceful turtles, and a kaleidoscope of colorful fish.

Step 2: Gather Your Gear

Now that you’re intrigued, it’s time to make sure you have all the essentials. A mask, snorkel, and fins are a must to ensure you can see and swim comfortably in the watery depths.

Step 3: Choose Your Adventure

With Sodwana’s wide range of underwater experiences, there’s something for everyone. Do you want to snorkel and marvel at the coral formations or take the plunge and go scuba diving? The choice is yours!

Step 4: Plan Your Visit

Before you get too excited and dive right in, it’s crucial to plan your trip properly. Consider the best time to go, check the weather conditions, and make sure you have proper transportation and accommodation arranged for a stress-free experience.

Step 5: Listen to the Experts

When you’re exploring an unfamiliar environment, it’s wise to seek guidance from those who know it best. Local dive centers and experienced instructors can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety throughout your underwater escapades.

Step 6: Dive into Learning

Before you embark on your water adventure, take some time to learn about the marine life you’ll encounter. Understanding the different fish species and coral formations will enhance your experience and make you appreciate the underwater world even more.

Step 7: Respect and Protect

When you dive into these pristine waters, remember that you are a guest in the underwater realm. Treat the marine life and their habitats with respect, and do your part in preserving the beauty for future generations to enjoy.

Step 8: Swim with a Buddy

Exploring Sodwana’s waters is more fun when you have a buddy by your side. Not only does it add to the excitement, but it also ensures that you have someone to watch your back and share the awe-inspiring moments with.

Step 9: Capture the Memories

The memories you make while exploring Sodwana’s waters are priceless. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to document your underwater adventures and share them with others.

Step 10: Dive Deeper, Discover More

Now that you’ve had a taste of the underwater wonders of Sodwana, why not dive deeper and discover more? There are countless dive sites and even advanced diving courses to take your underwater exploration to new depths.

So, are you ready to explore the extraordinary world beneath the waves? Grab your gear, plan your adventure, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime in Sodwana’s captivating waters!

WOMXN FOR WILD brings together a crew of adventurous women eager to venture beyond the pool’s safe waters and into the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. We’re ready to dive in. Are you?

Today, I invite you to join me as I share the incredible journey of the women who make up WOMXN FOR WILD. Through their courage and determination, they are setting out to conquer the underwater world.

When someone sets their mind on something as extraordinary as scuba diving in the Indian Ocean, it’s vital to choose the right group of companions – a crew that understands the significance of this wild quest. WOMXN FOR WILD is that group.

So, why scuba diving? Well, it’s more than just a recreational activity. It’s an opportunity to explore a whole new realm beneath the surface. As a result, scuba diving opens up a whole new world of wonder and discovery.

One of the key goals of WOMXN FOR WILD is to inspire others to push their boundaries and explore the unknown. By following in their footsteps, you too can embark on unforgettable journeys that challenge and enlighten you. You just need the courage to take that first step.

Throughout their adventures, the women of WOMXN FOR WILD use the power of photography and storytelling to capture the magic of their experiences. With these visual tales, they elevate their journeys, sharing the beauty of the ocean and the interconnectedness of all living things.

And here’s the exciting part: If you’re captivated by their stories, you’ll love the chance to embark on your own scuba diving expedition with WOMXN FOR WILD. Picture yourself diving alongside these fearless explorers, witnessing firsthand the marvels that lie beneath the surface. It’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

So let’s delve into the awe-inspiring world of WOMXN FOR WILD and discover how they’re redefining what it means to explore the ocean depths. Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Let’s go!

Crashing waves sweep onto the shores of Sodwana Bay. These sandy beaches are crucial for two types of turtles to lay their eggs. Go on an underwater adventure and spot these remarkable creatures after you become certified in scuba diving.

Learning to scuba dive is like living on a totally different planet,” exclaimed Carmen van der Westhuizen in amazement.

This was our second day in Sodwana Bay, and I sat on the porch of our wooden cabin at Coral Divers resort, basking in the warm February sun and chatting with my dear friend and business partner. We pondered the challenges of exploring the vast ocean after Carmen’s first dive in the training pool for the PADI Open Water Diver course. “You have to start from scratch, relearning everything. How to breathe, how to see, how to move, how to survive,” she contemplated as she organized her gear, now soaked and drippy. She made an interesting observation, though with a hint of irony.

The ocean is a wondrous part of our planet. We humans live on just a small portion of Earth, while the majority is covered by salty water. The surface of the ocean is what we can see, but there’s so much more hidden beneath the waves.

I consider myself fortunate. My partner has been scuba diving and vacationing in Sodwana Bay in KwaZulu-Natal since he was a young child, and his family goes back every December. It didn’t take me long to develop a curiosity about what lies beneath the beautiful waves. Only four months into our relationship, I took my first scuba dive with Coral Divers resort, and I haven’t been able to resist the allure since then.

Welcome to Coral Divers Resort, where adventure awaits at every corner!

Have you ever dreamed of exploring the vibrant underwater world but couldn’t find the perfect companions to join you? Well, you’re not alone. I’ve always wanted to dive into the unknown, but finding like-minded friends who share my passion hasn’t been easy. That’s why I created Womxn for Wild – an experience business that empowers eco-conscious women to embrace Africa’s untamed beauty without any reservations or biases. Together, we can be the ultimate adventure buddies!

So, how do we get started?
The first step is to plan an incredible trip that caters to everyone’s needs. Carmen, just like many others, had a burning desire to learn how to dive. And if she had this longing, I knew there must be others out there craving the same experience. Plus, it gave me the perfect excuse to dive to my heart’s content while Carmen and the rest of the group embarked on the five-day PADI Open Water Diver course.

Coral Divers Resort is the perfect place to learn how to scuba dive. We have classrooms and self-catering facilities that are designed to make your experience enjoyable and convenient. Our resort has been owned and operated by our family for over 25 years, so you can trust that we know what we’re doing.

The first thing to consider is safety.
There are many reasons why we chose Coral Divers Resort. One of the biggest advantages is that we are located inside the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This means that you don’t have to go through any administrative hassle to get to the beach in Sodwana Bay. You also have the freedom to explore the resort and the surrounding coastal forests.

When you sign up for scuba diving, you’ll receive a personal crate of equipment for the entire course. Pretty cool, right?

Now, let’s talk about step three – the actual diving part. Coral, as the locals lovingly call it, is not only a breathtakingly beautiful place, but it’s also home to a top-notch diving center. This place is no joke – they’re certified as a PADI five-star Instructor Development Centre and Gold Palm resort.

When it comes to accommodations, you have some options. They have cute little cabins, and if you prefer something more basic, they offer tents with real beds (because nobody likes sleeping on the ground). The communal bathrooms are clean and well-maintained, so you don’t need to worry about that. Plus, they provide a free shuttle service every hour to take you from the center to the beach and back, making it super convenient.

But here’s the best part – their learn-to-dive program is absolutely fantastic. And guess what? The instructors are all women. How awesome is that? They’ve really put a lot of thought into making sure their program is inclusive and welcoming to everyone. And to top it all off, rumor has it that they serve some ice-cold beers here. So after a long day of diving, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy a cold one. Sounds like paradise to me.

Picture this: two eager scuba diving enthusiasts ready to embark on their underwater adventure.

Step four? Debunking myths.
Maybe you’ve seen scuba diving showcased as this glamorous activity, but the reality is far from it. In truth, donning a snug wetsuit may not leave you feeling the most attractive. And let’s not forget the challenge of learning how to breathe underwater; it can really take a toll. The PADI Open Water Scuba Diver course is divided into three parts: confined water dives, knowledge development, and open water dives. This means spending time in class, listening to instructors speak with their American accents, learning how to assemble your gear, and practicing essential underwater skills in the swimming pool. And that’s not all – after all that practice, you’ll have to show your skills once more in the vast blue ocean. As part of the course, our team of all women also had to tackle a multiple-choice quiz and score a minimum of 75 percent to successfully pass.

When I went on underwater adventures, I kept logs of the water depth, temperature, and conditions. It was important to document each journey, so we filled out log books with all the details.

Step five? Find a crew.
Our crew was quite interesting, made up of six people from different parts of South Africa. Some were from Plettenberg Bay, others from Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Gqeberha. We all had one thing in common – our eagerness to explore the Indian Ocean, even if we were a bit naive about it.

To become a certified PADI Open Water Scuba Diver, you need to learn specific techniques. These techniques are crucial for diving safely and successfully. You’ll learn how to assemble your equipment, including your buoyancy control device, regulator, and oxygen tank. It’s also important to avoid calling your mask “goggles” and your fins “flippers.” During your training, you’ll practice emergency procedures to ensure you can handle any unexpected situations underwater.

So, this is the course that covers all the worst things that can happen. You know, like when your oxygen tank suddenly stops working, or when you’re underwater and you lose your way. Or what if you end up alone down there? And what about when water gets inside your mask? But out of all these things, the one I find the most challenging is clearing the mask.

When you first start the PADI Open Water Course, the initial phase doesn’t involve getting in the water just yet. Instead, it’s all about becoming acquainted with the equipment and getting comfortable with the process of gearing up.

Final regulator checks before taking a plunge into the pool. That’s what comes next. And let me tell you, it’s all about fearless fun.

When it’s time to put on the mask and go underwater, there’s a strange sound that fills the air. It’s a mix of laughter and chuckles. We all know what’s coming next – having to blow out the air while wearing the mask. It’s a bizarre sensation, but we handle it in our own unique ways. Some of us stay calm and breathe through the shock, while others take a moment to compose themselves before putting the mask back on, blowing it clear so that we can see clearly again.

I have vivid memories of my own experience during this part of the certification process. Let’s just say it wasn’t graceful. As I went underwater and removed my mask, panic set in. I gasped for air, feeling the distress of the water invading my nostrils. Even though I had the regulator securely in my mouth, it somehow became difficult to breathe with water in my nose. It took time and practice for me to get comfortable with the idea of taking off my mask while diving.

The group was really nervous about trying out these lessons in the ocean.

When you’re diving in Sodwana Bay, you’ll usually explore the beautiful sites at Two Mile Reef. This reef starts just outside the main bay and stretches almost 2km north, running parallel to the coast. It got its name from the distance you have to travel from the shore to get to the dive sites.

And here’s a lesson from the universe: sometimes, you just have to let things happen. The team was pretty excited about spotting a shark on their first dive. And guess what? The universe conspired and made it happen. During their dive, a sleek white tip shark gracefully swam past them. Seeing this majestic creature up close made everyone feel less scared.

But here’s the thing they didn’t expect: diving is tiring, and it makes you super hungry. So instead of sticking to their original plan of a self-catering lunch, they ended up devouring delicious pizzas.

Hey there! Take a look at this awesome view from Mseni Beach. Can you spot the lighthouse in the distance?

Ready for step number eight? Let’s anticipate.
Carmen and I took care of all the planning, preparations, and bookings, making sure to consider all the dietary needs. This way, our crew can fully concentrate on achieving that certification. Right from the beginning, we included a delicious pizza lunch at the nearby Mseni Beach Lodge. It was a perfect opportunity to indulge in some cheesy goodness and enjoy a different environment.

Before hopping on the boat, divers like me make sure to check the wave conditions for safety.

Step nine? Let me tell you all about it.
I’ve always been curious about conservation. Lucky for me, my parents took us on camping trips in Kruger, beach adventures in Cape Vidal, and weekends in the Waterberg bushveld. These experiences sparked my interest in nature and led me to complete a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa Field Guide course. I’m even becoming quite the bird enthusiast! But it wasn’t until I started scuba diving that I truly discovered the wonders of travel and wildlife. While it’s easy to get excited about sharks, turtles, and rays – the Big Five of the ocean – I’ve learned to slow down and appreciate the smaller creatures like shrimps and nudibranchs. Just like birding enhances a safari, exploring the underwater world has opened up a whole new realm to explore: Africa’s wild and underrated underwater kingdom.

I started diving because I wanted to explore the underwater world and see all the amazing creatures that live there. Little did I know that diving would also ignite a passion for protecting the environment. It was this newfound mission that inspired me to create an unforgettable scuba experience that not only provides fun but also educates.

During our scuba trips, we pay attention to every detail to ensure that you have a great time while learning about the importance of reef conservation. One example is the sunscreen we provide. We want to make sure that the sunscreen you use doesn’t harm the coral reefs.

Did you know that certain ingredients in sunscreen can actually damage coral reefs? It’s true! Two of the common ingredients, oxybenzone and octinoxate, can cause coral bleaching, deformities, and even DNA damage, which can lead to the death of these delicate ecosystems.

That’s why we give each participant a tub of reef-friendly sunscreen. This sunscreen contains ingredients that won’t harm the coral reefs when it washes off. It’s a small but important step we can all take to protect these beautiful underwater habitats.

When the sun rises, illuminating the shore, you see boats scattered along the beach, ready for their first journey of the day.

What happens next? Time to celebrate!
This incredible adventure comes to an end with an unforgettable beach picnic at Mseni Beach, a little bit north of Sodwana Bay and Jesser Point. We gather after completing the final quiz and proving ourselves, indulging in delicious snacks and cheering for each other. As we enjoy our meal, we witness the sun setting, filling our hearts and stomachs with joy and satisfaction. Earlier that day, we were lucky enough to encounter a variety of marine life, including turtles, rays, eels, angelfish, lobsters, and even more sharks! This experience truly introduces us to the wonders of the mesmerizing blue ocean.

When you first start using diving equipment, it might feel a little strange and unfamiliar. It can take some time to get used to how everything works. However, before you dive into the open water, you will have the opportunity to practice and master all the necessary skills in a controlled environment like a swimming pool.

I’m excited to tell you about Mseni Beach Lodge! It has a restaurant on the upper level that offers fantastic views and, most importantly, delicious pizza.

When I think of divers, I imagine them bravely plunging into the deep blue sea, right into the waves that crash against the boat. It’s a thrilling sight to see! The divers help the skippers by taking control of the boat’s steering as they jump on board. It’s like a well-choreographed dance between the divers and the waves, all done in perfect harmony.

Did you know these fascinating facts about Sodwana?

• Why Sodwana? This exceptional reef dates back 80,000 years and is home to a staggering 1,200 fish species (compared to the Great Barrier Reef’s 1,800), along with an array of fascinating invertebrates, turtles, rays, and even sharks. It’s a true underwater wonderland!

• Sodwana Bay is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and it’s a Marine Protected Area (MPA). Not only is it South Africa’s only Unesco marine World Heritage Site, but it also shares an MPA with Mozambique, creating Africa’s largest transfrontier MPA. It’s a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting our marine ecosystems.

• Did you know that South Africa has the world’s oldest turtle monitoring program? With over 50 years of tracking knowledge, you can join registered guides, like Pete Jacobs from Ufudu Turtle Tours, in Sodwana between October and March to observe these enigmatic marine reptiles up close. It’s a truly unique and educational experience! Learn more at ufuduturtletours.co.za.

Trip Planner

How to Get There

Here’s how you can reach Sodwana Bay from different cities:

From Johannesburg: Take the N17 East and drive past Springs. Keep going through Bethal and Ermelo. As you continue your journey, the N17 will transform into the N2 South. Drive through Piet Retief and Pongola until you reach Hluhluwe town. Avoid following Google Maps beyond Jozini.

From Durban: Hop on the N2 northbound and drive past Ballito and Richards Bay. Eventually, you’ll come across the Hluhluwe turn off. Take that and you’re on your way.

From Hluhluwe: Simply drive through the town and turn onto the R22. Stay on this road for approximately 80km until you reach the town of Mbazwana. Continue driving until you arrive at the iSimangaliso Wetland Park gates, which will lead you to Sodwana Bay.

Now that you know how to get there, it’s time to start planning your trip to the beautiful Sodwana Bay!

I love hanging out at the kit-up area of Coral Divers Resort. It’s right on the beach, but thankfully, it’s shaded so you don’t have to worry about getting too much sun. It’s the perfect spot to prepare before diving into the ocean.

Let’s Talk about the PADI Open Water Diver Course

This course is amazing because it’s suitable for anyone who’s 10 years old or older. Once you complete this certification, you’ll be able to dive up to 18 meters deep (12 meters for younger divers). The course is made up of five theory sessions, five pool sessions, an exam, and four open-water dives. It’s a comprehensive program that will make you feel confident underwater.

I decided to take this course in February because it’s the low season. That means the weather is fantastic, the water is warm, and the beaches are nice and calm. It’s a great time to be in Sodwana. Plus, there’s another exciting thing about this season – you might get a chance to witness baby turtles making their way back to the sea. How incredible is that?

So, how much does the course cost? Well, the average price is around R4 620 per person. It’s definitely worth it for the experience you get. If you want to find out more or book your spot, you can contact Coral Divers Resort at 033 345 6531 or visit their website at coraldivers.co.za.

Ready to Start Diving?

If you can’t make it to Sodwana, don’t worry! You can find a PADI Open Water Diver course in your area on Padi.com. It’s a great way to begin your underwater adventure.

Padi open water divers course

Join the crew
Are you ready to explore the underwater world? You don’t have to go on this adventure alone. With the Womxn for Wild travel package, we’ve got you covered. Our package includes a festive welcome dinner, all park fees, dive permits, course material and coaching, accommodation, a delicious pizza lunch, and a celebratory beach picnic. Oh, and let’s not forget about the goodie bag filled with awesome local eco-educational products. You’ll love it! We’re coming back in February 2022 with tiered packages starting from R6 500pp. Visit our website at womxnforwild.co.za for more information.

I’m excited to share some great places to eat while enjoying your stay at Coral Divers! Let me tell you about them.

First up, we have Coral Divers’ own self-catering facilities. You’ll have everything you need to cook your own meals, including cutlery, crockery, and a two-plate stove (sorry, no ovens). And if you’re in the mood for a braai, just let us know, and we’ll get the fire going in the boma braai area at 5:30pm. Bring some chops, and you’re in for a delicious evening!

If you prefer to dine out, we have The Snack Shack, our on-site restaurant and bar. They offer a variety of tasty treats, including pizzas, wraps, burgers, and even fresh seafood. Need your caffeine fix? They’ve got you covered with a cappuccino machine. You can also enjoy milkshakes and takeaways until 8pm. And if you’re an early-rising diver, don’t worry – coffee is available from 6am!

Lastly, I want to tell you about Mseni Beach Lodge. This beautiful lodge is located within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, just a short five-minute drive from Coral Divers. It has an amazing cocktail deck overlooking the ocean. Imagine sipping a delicious cocktail while taking in the breathtaking views! If you’re interested, you can contact them at 087 803 5878, or visit their website at mseni.co.za.

So, whether you prefer cooking your own meals or trying out different eateries, there’s something for everyone here at Coral Divers. Bon appétit!

Hey there! Welcome to the Coral Divers Resort. We’ve got some awesome options for you to stay here and have a fantastic time. Let me tell you all about it.

Stay Here

At Coral Divers, we offer two types of accommodation: cabins with private bathrooms and basic safari-style tents with shared ablutions. You can choose what works best for you!

If you like a little more privacy, you can check into one of our cozy en-suite cabins. They come with all the comforts you need, like your own bathroom. Prices start at R600pp. Amazing, right?

But if you’re more of an adventurous soul, you might prefer our budget-friendly tents. They’re perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the camaraderie of a shared ablution block. And the best part? You can stay in one of these cool tents for as little as R200pp!

And here’s the cherry on top: at Coral Divers, we give you the flexibility to choose how you want to eat. You can either whip up your own delicious meals in our fully equipped communal kitchens or treat yourself to some mouthwatering dishes from our restaurant. The choice is yours!

If this sounds like your idea of a perfect getaway, give us a call at 033 345 6531 or visit our website at coraldivers.co.za. We can’t wait to have you here!