The Annual Sardine run in South Africa is considered as the largest migration event in the world, one which can be seen from space!
We have partnered with south Africas most experienced operator to bring you an epic expedition which will combine the best the area has to offer.
From 2 days of shark Freediving (Scuba also possible), freedive sessions and breathing workshops to 7 full days of high octane Sardine run, this is a trip of a lifetime. Oh, and did we mention an Microlight flight above the action??
Port St Johns – South Africa (Google Map)
26/06/2023-07/07/2023
Have you ever swam with a Humpback? if so, this was probably in clear, warm water, where mothers nurse their young. But as you may know, whales do not feed in Tonga… instead, they feed down south.
The Sardine Run provides a unique opportunity to witness whales and other species as they feed of the sardines as they move around the South African coast.
We have prepared a jam-packed plan and do not want to give it all away (want to surprise you)… but trust us – it is going to be incredible.
You can expect to experience the following:
Mbotyi River Lodge is our accommodation partner and base for our Sardine Run expeditions. The lodge is 3 star luxury, with full amenities and excellent service.
Of the several accommodation options available for Sardine Runners. Mbotyi is by far the most luxurious and the best situated being just south of the infamous Waterfall Bluff (where the sardines mass before running up the coast) and being surrounded by the spectacular Mbotyi hills and the magnificent Magwa Tea Plantation with close proximity to Fraser Falls and Magwa Falls – 2 of the finest African sundowner experiences imaginable ☺!
Weather & Conditions
June/ July are winter months on the Wild Coast and wet weather is possible (though not always the case).
• Temperatures (Air) : 59 – 75 F/ 15 – 24 C
• Temperatures (Water) : 59 – 70 F/ 15 – 21 C
Conditions will vary from glass-like seas to flying through giant rollers in pumping winds – very exciting and sometimes strenuous. Safety is always the priority when on the water and the SEAL skipper will navigate accordingly.
Visibility – Varies from 2 – 20m/ 6 ft – 60ft.
Day 1: After we pick you up at the airport. From time of pick-up, it is approximately a 2.5-hour to 3-hour drive to the Cheetah Interaction Tour and from there to the Camp.
We will have 4 action packed days of nature, good vibes and incredible wildlife.
06h45 Continental Breakfast (packed breakfast supplied for occasional 06h30 launches)
07h00 Microlight launches and begins recon
07h30 SEAL Teams launch
11h00 Light lunch and refreshments available onboard throughout the day
13h30 Approximate time back on-shore – dependent on action and weather conditions
16h00 Afternoon activity (optional) – microlight flight, horse riding, sundown cocktails, trail- hikes, witchdoctor visit, cultural village tour & more.
19h00 3 course dinner, next day activity planning and good times.
After Breakfast we will drive back to Durben and drop you off at the airport
Due to the nature of the expedition, the sea conditions and the variation in the migration of the sardines, we are not guaranteed to see all the species mentioned here.
Below, you can view a long talk (1 hour 20 minutes) delivered by Seal Expeditions owner. Our trip will include a few additional surprises 😉
Ignore the first few minutes in Hebrew – the talk itself is in english…
