Explore Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein is found in the Free State in the very center of South Africa. It is a large population hub and also functions as the judicial capital of the country. Though the city, and the state, is landlocked, there are several places you can learn to dive here.
Obviously, liveaboards and dive resorts aren’t really an option here as it is so far inland. However, there are several dive centres which offer all levels of dive training. They all offer regular trips to more nearby inland dive locations and more occasional, longer trips to the coastline to dive there. Beginner dive courses in the secluded pools and calm lakes of the region may be preferable than learning on the somewhat tumultuous South African coast.
Top Bloemfontein Dive Sites
1. Botshabelo Quarry (near Bloemfontein)
Located just outside Bloemfontein, this artificial quarry is ideal for scuba training, especially for beginners and technical divers. Though marine life is limited, the calm, controlled environment makes it perfect for skill development.
2. Bass Lake (Henley on Klip)
A favorite weekend destination for Bloemfontein divers, this flooded quarry is home to bass fish and submerged items like a bus, hang glider, and mine truck. Best suited for scuba diving, it offers easy to intermediate conditions and solid visibility in the morning.
3. Miracle Waters (near Magaliesberg)
This spring-fed ex-mine near Johannesburg is popular for scuba and freediving. Divers can explore a sunken aeroplane, yachts, a pool, and a helicopter. Home to bass and kurper, the site offers good visibility early in the day and caters to all levels.
4. Sodwana Bay (KwaZulu-Natal)
A top coastal dive destination for Free State divers, Sodwana Bay’s reefs host dolphins, manta rays, reef sharks, and colorful coral formations. Suitable for all skill levels, this marine protected area is accessible via organized coastal dive trips.
5. Aliwal Shoal (KwaZulu-Natal)
Known for thrilling shark dives, Aliwal Shoal offers encounters with tiger, bull, and ragged-tooth sharks. The site also includes wrecks and swim-throughs. This is a destination for advanced scuba divers seeking drift dives and big animal action.