Diving & Snorkelling South Africa, Lonely Planet

ISBN 1–74059–344-8
Reviewed by: Fiona McIntosh

You have to hand it to lonely planet, they do produce excellent, informative guides. The latest in their series of diving and snorkelling books focuses on the incredible marine world of South Africa and southern Mozambique. Co-author, with American Tim Rock, is Jean Pierre Botha, a familiar figure in the southern African diving industry. Though most associate JP with Marine Dynamics and his work with great white sharks in Gansbaai, he is now based primarily at his Ganjama resort in Guinjata Bay so his expertise extends beyond the border. The pocket-sized book is a fabulous reference for local and visiting divers alike covering 90 odd sites with clear maps of dive regions, key site info such as best time to dive, access, depth range, expertise rating with additional info, such as whether good snorkelling/free diving, marine reserve or not etc provided through icons.

Obviously a book of this size has to be selective, but unlike so many other guides, individual sites on major reefs (such as on Sodwana’s Two Mile) are named and briefl y described and there are some lesser-known dives thrown in to keep you interested. And, in addition to the comprehensive site info, there is a wealth of background reading on the history of diving in SA, the main species found in the region, underwater photography, a directory of dive operators and other major dive related organisations and some recommendations as to top dives. Colour photographs complete an excellent package, and if it seems a bit pricey for us locals I’m sure it will be a win with overseas visitors.

R239 from Exclusive Books and major bookstores.

< Prev		Next >