Sardine Run 2022

Welcome to the greatest show on earth!!!

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??

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:

Aliwal Shoal will range from 18 – 36m. The shoal is spread over several kilometres – but is considered to be an incredible adventure-dive opportunity, because of its diversity of marine life – sharks specifically.
In SA we call sand tigers, Ragged-Tooth sharks – and they are generally quite plentiful on the shoal, in the caves etc. There are also huge grouper to see – in fact a plethora of sub-tropical reef marine life. Its a very unique location.

The baited dives happen between surface and 15 metres, depending on conditions. We usually get many black-tips, as in the photos – and they tend to make the experience for most of our guests – but the format was originally intended for Tiger sharks, and we still get many visits, though not every time. In the general ocean vicinity we have regular sightings of all of the big guys (bull sharks, tigers, hammerheads), and even the occasional white shark and less frequent, orca.

Mbotyi River Lodge is our accommodation partner and base for our Sardine Run scuba diving 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.