Discover Dyer Island – South Africa’s Wildlife and Great White Shark Sanctuary
Located just off the coast near the fishing village of Gansbaai, Dyer Island is a small but extraordinary island known as one of South Africa’s most remarkable wildlife havens. Originally named Ilha de Fera—or “Island of Wild Creatures”—by early Portuguese explorers, Dyer Island lives up to this name with an incredible diversity of marine life.
Dyer Island is home to thousands of African penguins, Cape gannets, cormorants, and one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world, numbering over 50,000. These seals play a crucial role in the local ecosystem and are a favorite food source for the island’s most famous residents—the great white sharks.
Separated from nearby Geyser Rock by the narrow, shark-filled channel known as Shark Alley, Dyer Island forms part of the world’s most famous great white shark hotspot. This natural marine sanctuary attracts scientists, filmmakers, and adventure seekers from across the globe eager to witness these magnificent predators in action.
Visitors can experience Dyer Island’s vibrant wildlife up close through boat tours and shark cage diving excursions that depart from nearby Gansbaai. Whether you want to marvel at playful penguins or come face-to-face with the ocean’s most iconic predator, Dyer Island promises an unforgettable South African marine adventure.