Meet the 'Marine Big Five' Animals of South Africa

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The 'Marine Big Five' animals of South Africa have been fascinating marine enthusiasts for decades. These incredible creatures can be found throughout the country's coastline, but they're concentrated in specific areas like the Western and Eastern Capes. So, whether you reside in SA or plan to visit soon, make a stop by the seaside – you might see just the Marine Five pop their heads up above the waves.

The African penguin, also known fondly as 'jackass penguins' due to their donkey-like braying, is the only penguin species found on the African continent. Height-wise, they can grow to between 60 and 70 centimetres and can weigh up to 3.5 kilograms. Breeding in colonies, you will find these penguins in and around the Western and Eastern Capes – the most famous of these is the Boulders Beach colony in Simon's Town.

The bottlenose dolphin is known for its playful and intelligent nature. They live in female-led pods, and their sleek, grey bodies can reach lengths of up to 2.5 metres and can weigh as much as a whopping 275 kilograms. There are many spots along South Africa's coastline where you can see these dolphins, including Plettenberg Bay, Port Elizabeth, and Sodwana Bay.

Cape fur seals are lifelong residents of South Africa's western coastline. Living in tight-knit colonies in the hundreds, they are extraordinary swimmers, thanks to their powerful fore and back flippers. The males tend to be heavier than the females. Bulls clock in at 360 kilograms, while the cows usually weigh less than 100 kilograms.

The great white shark is an apex predator of note. Image: Lindsay_imagery/ Canva A legendary predator, the great white shark strikes fear into the hearts of thalassophobes everywhere (or adrenaline into the veins of avid thrill-seekers). Its jaws are lined with about 300 serrated teeth that are continuously being replaced; they have a bite force of 4 000 pounds per square inch, which doesn’t bode well for their prey.

The southern right whale defines marine majesty. They measure approximately 13 to 16 metres in length and can weigh up to 80 tonnes. They may not be the fastest swimmers, but they’re graceful and calm as they glide through the waters, their calloused heads distinguishing them from their brethren. Hermanus, in the Western Cape, is the perfect spot to see southern rights splashing their fins and tails about.