Exploring the marine and bird sanctuary on the southern shores of Africa

At this time of year this part of the southern shores of Africa is teeming with marine life, particularly whales, dolphins and seals. I saw so many seals and dolphins (porpoises) this afternoon as I walked along the shoreline that it was impossible to count them all. They are giving birth and the young are frolicking in the waves near the shore. It feels like being in a nature paradise.

In fact this region is known to be a haven for marine life and so is a protected marine reserve. Tourists are coming from all over now to do some whale spotting from the shoreline as well as out on boats just offshore. It is a truly awesome experience to come so close to the largest mammals on earth, even if they are in the water.

This southern coastline of Africa is called the Garden Route and is a perfect place to explore the indigenous forests, with their hiking trails, as well as being a perfect shoreline to investigate, if you enjoy learning about the indigenous marine life and general ecology of the region.

Despite it being winter now, the water of the Indian ocean is still relatively warm, which is why the whales come here to give birth annually at this time. The mist hangs thick just offshore and as the sun sets, it drifts back inland slightly, then recedes again as the sun dawns and warms the land again. These misty days make for a monochrome backdrop on occasion, especially when you combine the pale sea sand with the grey sky and sea in these conditions.

If you want to learn about marine ecology and see the most majestic mammals on earth, the giants of the world, then the Garden Route region of these southern African shores is just the place for you. As you can see in the notice boards dotted along the shoreline here, plenty of information is available and the region is a haven and sanctuary for all the sea birds that nest here as well as the seals and porpoises. It is such an awesome sight to see them jumping out of the water, and to see the line of them stretch for what seems like miles along the shoreline.

When you get a chance then do come and explore these shores. You will find plenty of space to roam along the long stretches of shoreline which remain undisturbed and undeveloped in places so that the natural environment can continue to develop and the sea life and animals can maintain their habitat.

Living so close to nature in the wild is a really harmonious experience that keeps one in touch with the living habitat and the numerous wildlife inhabitants with whom we share this marvelous planet.

(photos my own)

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