^{Photo Credit: Aaron Gekoski}

Imagine plunging into waters the color of kryptonite, only to find yourself face to face with a living relic—a broadnose sevengill shark, also known as the cow shark, emerging from the swaying kelp forest.

These sharks are considered the most primitive of all, with skeletons that closely resemble their ancient, extinct ancestors. For hundreds of millions of years, they have glided through our oceans, untouched by the ravages of time and nature’s relentless evolution.

Cow sharks can be found in the cool, temperate waters of California, Japan, China, New Zealand, and South Africa. However, South Africa is where they truly thrive, gathering in large numbers just offshore, within the shallows of the kelp forests.

For those eager to encounter these remarkable creatures, several local operators offer day trips. But if you’re a true shark enthusiast, the South African Endemic Shark Photography Expedition, run by Big Fish Expeditions, is your ultimate ticket to experiencing the full array of South Africa’s unique and fascinating shark species.

Explore more: