The cold Benguela current along the fringes of the west coast of southern Africa is synonymous with coastal upwelling. Consequently, massive stands of kelp forest are attached to shallow rocky reefs. In fact, the entire coastal ecosystem is driven by these giant plants, that feed the rocky and sandy shores.

he intertidal zone is a thin band of the shore that twice daily is exposed and then again submerged by the tides. The daily rhythm of the tides creates a high-energy environment where every living creature clings to life at the edge. But despite the turbulent and ever changing nature of the environment, this section of the coast is teaming with life.

The warm and fast flowing Algulhas current that runs along the eastern side of southern Africa generates a lush landscape with an explosive diversity of life. Here we find Africa’s southernmost submerged coral reef. For its size it is one of the most diverse on our planet with more than 1000 species of fish. It is the wonder shore.