Explore Gauteng

Gauteng Province is found in the very centre of South Africa and is the most densely populated province in the whole of SA. It is home to the large population hubs of Johannesburg and Pretoria as well as the smaller cities of Germiston and Vereeniging. It is also home to a, perhaps surprising, number of dive centres.

Though landlocked, the area has several lakes which have become popular dive destinations - called Bass Lake and Miracle Waters. Diving in Gauteng is possible through its dive centres. There are no dive resorts here or liveaboards (it being landlocked makes that one a challenge) but there are plenty of places to learn to dive. The calmness of the lakes makes it a popular place for dive courses, particularly for beginners. Several of the shops offer the chance to stay around the lake while you’re learning to dive, in a variety of accommodation styles.

Most dive shops frequently organise trips down to the coast to dive in the ocean. Some of the most popular dive sites are found off Durban, such as Aliwal Shoal, around a 5 hour drive to the south.

Places to Explore

Pretoria

5 Centers

Though Pretoria is landlocked, there are a number of dive centres in the town and surrounding areas. The calm waters of the lakes make it popular with dive courses - notably beginners, but it is popular with technical diving training too. Some of the dive courses are completed in these lakes and some involve trips to Sodwana Bay on the coast.

Johannesburg

1 Divesite 10 Centers

Though surrounded by land on all sides, there is lots of opportunity to dive in Johannesburg. There are several lakes nearby which are popular with dive courses. It is a definite dive centre culture here, there are no dive resorts or liveaboards.

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Diver Level Programs / Courses

Aqua Divers Pretoria

Open Water Diver

21 Nov 2025

This globally recognized certification program is the best way to begin your lifelong adventures as a certified scuba diver. Personalized training is combined with in-water practice sessions to ensure you have the skills and experience required to become truly comfortable underwater. You will earn the SSI Open Water Diver certification.

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Scuba Q

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22 Nov 2025

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★☆☆ Henley on Klip - Bass Lake

Bass Lake is 45 minutes south of Sandton. This lake is spring-fed and the water is of drinking quality with depths vary from a walk-in slope to 23m at the deepest point.

Diving in Gauteng

Gauteng, though landlocked, offers intriguing freshwater dive sites that attract many enthusiasts. One notable spot is Bass Lake Quarry, where divers can explore submerged vehicles and platforms, providing a unique underwater experience. It's a favored site for training and shore diving due to its easy access and clear waters. Additionally, the site often hosts a variety of fish, offering glimpses of local aquatic life.

Another popular location is Miracle Waters, a former open-pit mine filled with clear spring water. Here, divers can engage in shore and quarry diving while encountering underwater attractions like an airplane and bus. The site is renowned for its visibility and calm conditions, making it ideal for beginners. Both sites offer a blend of adventure and tranquility, making Gauteng a hidden gem for freshwater diving enthusiasts.

The best Months to Dive in Gauteng

Freshwater diving in Gauteng offers a unique experience, with conditions varying significantly throughout the year. During the summer months, from November to March, water temperatures range between 20°C and 25°C, providing comfortable diving conditions. However, visibility can be somewhat reduced due to increased rainfall and runoff, which can introduce silt and debris into the water.

In the winter months, from May to August, water temperatures drop to between 15°C and 18°C. Despite the cooler temperatures, visibility tends to improve significantly as there is less runoff and rainfall. There is no ice cover in Gauteng's freshwater bodies, allowing for diving year-round. The best months for diving are typically April and May, as well as September and October, when conditions balance mild temperatures with good visibility. However, divers should be aware of potential restrictions during peak rainfall periods, which may limit access to certain dive sites.