Geography: Gansbaai, the "World Capital of the Great White Shark", lies in the foothills of the Overberg Mountains, about 2 hours from Cape Town. History There is evidence that past residents of Gansbaai have included the Khoe, whose ancient middens, now protected, can be seen along the dunes. The modern history of the village however tells of shipwreck survivors settling in the area in 1852. The name is thought to have come from the Afrikaans word "gans" - a type of wild goose that populated the area in the early days.Arts and Culture The culture of the village is definitely centred on the ocean, and villagers take pleasure in preparing the most delicious seafood, straight from the ocean. In Franskraal, the small Strandveld Museum has interesting displays and documents the days of seal and shark hunting. Science Visitors to Gansbaai can enjoy many private and state-owned nature reserves that surround the village, many of which contain the protected fynbos floral species. The area is well known for the Southern Right whales that pass on their migration, and visitors will revel in the chance to see them up close by taking a boat trip out to sea. EntertainmentVisitors to Gansbaai can enjoy the annual Ganse Fees festival that takes place in the harbour, that celebrates the origins of the village. More than ten thousand visitors flock to the harbour and enjoy the craft stalls, live bands, and food stalls. Aspiring actors can show off their talents at the annual Melodrama Festival.Did You KnowDyer Island is named after an African American slave called Steve Dyer who used to live on the island and collect sealskins |
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