Trip Report · 05 Nov 2019
Located approximately 173 kilometres from Johannesburg, Marico Oog is a well-hidden gem — a small farm in Lichtenburg offering accommodation in tents and chalets, and a very different kind of dive.
Marico Oog offers a break from busy city life, with wonderful sunsets, exciting memories and tummy-hurting laughs. Reeds and floating water lilies ring the water, carrying divers into another dive world entirely — one defined by colour, visibility and tranquillity.
For first-time divers, the experience transforms initial nerves into something else altogether. Attention shifts away from anxiety, fear and nervousness, and into excitement, peace and comfort.
The natural spring holds a steady 20°C, with visibility of 10m or more. Freshwater residents spotted by divers include koi, crabs, and even a rather shy freshwater eel.
After every dive, divers are greeted with smiles and laughter from the most welcoming team, and evenings are spent around the warm fire, swapping stories long into the night.
Trips like this one to Marico Oog have opened many friendships, helped conquer fears, and created memories that are still remembered well after dive 100.