S. African Sardine Run & Safari
Sardine Run July 7-15, 2028
Safari July 15-20, 2028
Watch Sardine Run Video
The Sardine Run
Every winter millions of sardines migrate more than 1000 km north along the South African Coast creating a chaotic feeding frenzy of sharks, dolphins, sea lions, whales and sea birds. Witnessing this firsthand means experiencing one of nature's greatest spectacles. Round this off with a first class safari experience and you have a trip of a lifetime.
Motivation
“In 1999, I lived and worked in Mozambique, Africa which is to the immediate northeast of South Africa. I had heard tales of the sardine run from the locals and have desired to return to see this phenomenon first hand. The time has finally come.
I'm incredibly fortunate to partner with my dear friend Erica Combrink to bring this trip to life. We met in Mozambique years ago, and she has since channeled her 30 years of experience in the African hospitality and safari industry into crafting this perfect package for us. Her insider knowledge has been absolutely essential.”
-Mike Gerken
Founder Evolution Dive Travel
Seal Expeditions - S. Africa
They did not invent diving the Sardine Run – but as one of the pioneers, they did perfect the art of safely and effectively interacting with this wonder of nature. Since 2002 SEAL Expeditionshad been the industry leader in Sardine Run dive tourism – providing our brand of service to adventurers from all over the world. Their award-winning program has been the Gold Standard for the Sardine Run experience – and continues to deliver for international guests, year after year.
Need To Know
Patience and fortitude is required to motor in high speed inflatable ribs across coastal waters in search of the bait balls and then dive with mask and fins into cold water to intercept them. SEAL flies their own ultra-light spotter planes to assist in locating the action.
Water temperature is 58-60F/13-16C
The bait balls often are on the move and divers need to be quick and nimble getting in and out of the boat. Static bait balls may yield an opportunity to enter on Scuba.
Travel Insurance recommended
US Citizens do not require a visa
A higher level of physical fitness is required for this expedition.
Please contact me to discuss if this trip is right for you.
Package Price: $4295pp dbl occ
$4650 single occ
What’s Included
8 Nts Lodging w/ 7 Days at Sea
Land Programs in Afternoon
Meals & Soft Drinks
Our essential, dedicated microlight pilot to scan the oceans and report the action to our boats and divers.
One flight on the ultra light
Cylinders, airfills & weight belt; Decision to SCUBA or snorkel will be made on board the boat at each opportunity.
Return transfers from Durban, S Africa to Mbotyi Lodge excluding all international and regional flights.
Photo Tips & Techniques by Mike
Accommodation
A warm welcome awaits at Mbotyi River Lodge located on the stunning Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Pondoland’s best kept secret is situated at the mouth of the tidal Mbotyi River nestled between the rolling hills, lush tropical forest and the warm Indian Ocean. This unique Wild Coast hotel is the perfect place for a peaceful stay after a long day in pursuit of the sardines.Seal Expeditions - S. Africa
Getting There
Fly to Durban International Airport (DUR) South Africa via Dubai (DXB),
Johannesburg, SA (JNB) or Cape Town, SA (CPT). SEAL Expedition representative will pick us up and transfer us to Mybotyi Lodge; a 6 Hour one way journey. This is an adventure!
S. African Safari - Simbavati Waterside
No trip to Africa is complete without experiencing a big game safari. After our adventures on the ocean chasing Sardines, we will relocate to simbavati waterside in south Africa's prestigious Klaserie Private Nature Reserve.
Simbavati Waterside
This incredible lodge boasts a wonderful staff, a welcoming atmosphere, spectacular meals, and unforgettable game drives. True to its name, the lodge features a massive, active waterhole that wraps around the northern side of the property and most of the guest units. After an exciting day in the bush, you can sit back on your deck and watch the wildlife arrive for a drink. We will spend four nights and five days exploring the reserve via open-vehicle game drives and guided walking tours.
Klaserie Private Reserve
Flanking a large dam in the southern Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Waterside was conceptualized, designed and built to be a natural extension of the pure utopian Klaserie wilderness from which it draws its inspiration.
Package Price $6950
What’s Included
4 Nts/5 Days Lodging
Domestic Flights Johannesburg (JMB) to Eastgate, Hoedspruit (HDS)
Airport transfers to and from lodge
Guide service by Shaun w/ Bush Geek Safaris
8 guided game drives with Shaun AM & PM
Optional walking safari available.• Three meals per day as well as high tea and game drive snacks.
Local beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks.
Conservation levy
Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg prior to flight to Eastgate; includes airport transfers
Storage of diving equipment and extra bags at Johannesburg; this is a well trusted storage facility. Lighten your load.
Getting There
We will depart Myboti Lodge at a time to be determined on July 15 and arrive at Durban airport to catch our flight to Johannesburg.
Overnight in Joburg
Excess luggage will be dropped off at a safe pre-determined storage facility.
July 16 we will fly domestically to Eastgate and be transferred to Simbavati Waterside.
July 20 we may have our last game drive in the AM and then continue back to Eastgate to catch out flight back to Joburg.
Once in Joburg this is where we say farewell and you can catch your international flights onward.
