South Africa – Sardine Run
June 2025: Dive Into the Greatest Show of the Ocean
The Sardine Run: More Than Just a Dive Trip, a Rite of Passage
Enjoy a front-row seats to one of the planet’s most spectacular marine events
BOOKINGS ARE OPEN: The 2025 Sardine Run Trip starts on 21st June 2025
Every year between late June and early July, billions of sardines migrate along South Africa’s Wild Coast, attracting an extraordinary gathering of marine predators. This phenomenon—known as the Sardine Run—is one of the most awe-inspiring underwater events on the planet.
When dolphins herd the sardines into tight bait balls, chaos erupts—predators strike in perfect sync, creating one of nature’s most intense and beautiful marine events. These bait balls, sometimes 20 meters wide and 10 meters deep, last just a few minutes—no more than 10 minutes of pure underwater drama. Watching this high-speed hunt unfold is the highlight of every Sardine Run experience.
- 18,000+ dolphins: common dolphin and bottlenose dolphin.
- Thousands of sharks: bronze whaler, dusky shark, grey nurse shark, oceanic blacktip shark, spinner shark and zambezi bullshark.
- Thousands of game fish: blue fish, king mackerel, various kingfish species, garrick, geelbek and eastern little tuna.
- Thousands of birds: cape gannet, albatros, cormorants, terns and gulls.
- Hundreds of whales: mainly humpback whales but occasionally also southern right whales.
The Sardine Run is a limited, seasonal event. Secure your spot now and witness the wildest underwater show on Earth!
Protea Banks is the second most popular attraction for shark diving in South Africa. The situation here is quite similar to Aliwal Shoal. We have the same type of speedboat but we launch directly from the sea front.
Located at the mouth of the tidal Mbotyi River on South Africa’s stunning Wild Coast, this family-friendly resort offers the perfect base for our 5-day Sardine Run adventure. Surrounded by lush tropical forests, rolling hills, and the ocean, this serene retreat provides the ideal balance of relaxation and adventure.
From here, we will launch each day’s exciting marine excursions, exploring the unique wonders of the Sardine Run while returning to a peaceful, tranquil haven each evening.
The area is a paradise for nature lovers, offering beautiful waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems. The grounds of the resort feature manicured lawns, indigenous gardens, and a crystal-clear swimming pool, providing a perfect space to unwind after a day on the water.
Immerse Yourself in Pondoland Culture
Nestled in the heart of Pondoland, this location also provides an authentic cultural experience. Guests can take guided walks through the hills and valleys, meet local community members, and explore the rich traditions of the region. A visit to the nearby Magwa Tea Plantation gives a glimpse into one of the world’s largest tea plantations, with its lush tea bushes stretching across the hills and bordered by towering Eucalyptus trees.
A True Wilderness Escape
This remote and secluded destination offers an authentic wilderness experience, free from the distractions of shopping malls and commercial facilities. With only a few local shops, a clinic, and a school nearby, visitors are encouraged to bring essential supplies. Despite its off-the-beaten-path location, this area offers the opportunity to experience South Africa’s natural beauty and culture in its purest form. The region is not malaria-prone, though it’s recommended to bring insect repellent as you explore the breathtaking surroundings.
An Exceptional Safari Destination in KwaZulu Natal
Nestled in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal, the Nambiti Private Game Reserve offers a world-class safari experience. This 22,000-acre, malaria-free conservancy is home to the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards – as well as giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, and over 30 species of plains game.
The reserve’s rich biodiversity, featuring thornveld, acacia trees, and expansive grasslands reminiscent of Central Africa, creates an ideal haven for nature enthusiasts.
The reserve’s abundant water system, with perennial rivers and a striking waterfall along the Sundays River, attracts rare bird species, raptors, and vultures, enriching the diverse wildlife experience.
This extraordinary location promises an immersive, once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the heart of the African wilderness.
Enhance Your Sardine Run & African Sharks Trip
Adding the Nambiti Private Game Reserve to your Sardine Run & African Sharks trip will elevate the experience by offering a thrilling safari adventure alongside the awe-inspiring marine experiences of the Sardine Run and African shark diving.
With the Big Five, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, the reserve provides a unique contrast to the underwater excitement, allowing you to immerse yourself in both land and sea environments.
This addition provides exceptional value, combining two of South Africa’s premier wildlife experiences—an unforgettable safari and exhilarating marine encounters—into one dynamic trip. It allows participants to experience the full spectrum of South Africa’s natural beauty, blending terrestrial and marine wildlife into a single, comprehensive itinerary.
The Itinerary
The Sardine Run, the African Sharks and The Big Five
- Arrival at Durban
- Transfer to Umkomaas
- Accommodation at Agulhas House
- Early morning: Shark Dive (Tiger Sharks and Oceanic Black Tips)
- Second Dive: Aliwal Shoal (Sand Tigers A.K.A. Ragged Tooth Sharks)
- Accommodation at Agulhas House
- Early morning transfer to Shelly Beach
- Shark Dive (Bull Shark and Hammer Head)
- Second Dive: Protea Banks
- Transfer to Mbotyi (Wild Coast)
- Accommodation at Mbotyi River Lodge
Dive into the Action: Follow the Sardines!
- The Sardine Run
- Accommodation at Mbotyi River Lodge
Welcome to the most exhilarating chapter of your journey: the Sardine Run. With Élite Diving Agency, you’ll witness this spectacle from the comfort of a River Lodge, diving daily into the heart of the action.
Drawn by the silver tide, dolphins, sharks, seabirds, and game fish converge in a perfectly choreographed hunt. At its peak, dolphins herd sardines into dense bait balls—massive formations up to 20 meters wide and 10 meters deep. What follows is a breathtaking spectacle: a brief, explosive frenzy that lasts no more than ten minutes.
Witnessing this moment—raw, fleeting, and powerful—is the highlight of the Sardine Run. It’s not just a dive; it’s a front-row seat to nature’s most dramatic marine encounter.
Back to Umkomaas
- Transfer
- Free day
- Accommodation at Agulhas House
- Early morning: Shark Dive
- Second Dive: Reef Dive on Aliwal Shoal
- Accommodation at Agulhas House
- Early morning transfer to Shelly Beach
- Shark Dive (Bull Shark – Hammer Head)
- Second Dive: Protea Banks
- Accommodation at Agulhas House
- Transfer to Game Park
- Afternoon Game Drive
- Accommodation at Game Park "The Springbok Lodge"
- Early morning Game Drive
- Late afternoon Game Drive
- Accommodation at Game Park "The Springbok Lodge"
- Hugs & Goodbyes
- Transfer to Durban International Airport for Departure
- NOTE: Book your return flight from Durban after 2 pm
About The Trip
Highlights & useful information
Option 1: Sardine Run – African Sharks – Safari
14 Nights
The ultimate South African dive adventure.
5 Days of Sardine Run Seafari
3 Shark dives & 3 Reef dives in Aliwal Shoal
2 Shark dives & 2 Reef dives in Protea Banks
3 Game Drive Safari excursions in a private reserve
A complete package blending the magic of the ocean with the wild beauty of African savannah. Ideal for adventurers looking for it all: marine action and iconic wildlife encounters.
Option 2: Sardine Run – African Sharks
9 Nights
For those who want to immerse themselves in the marine life of South Africa.
5 Days of Sardine Run Seafari
1 Shark dive & 1 Reef dive in Aliwal Shoal
1 Shark dive & 1 Reef dive in Protea Banks
Perfect for divers seeking adrenaline-packed shark encounters combined with the raw, untamed action of the Sardine Run.
Option 3: Pure Sardine Run
6 Nights
Straight to the heart of the action.
5 Days of Sardine Run Seafari
Designed for those who want to focus entirely on this once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomenon, with no distractions—just you, the ocean, and the migration.
- As this is a Group Experience, an ÉDA Personal Diver will accompany you throughout the trip
- 6 nights at Agulhas House
- 6 nights at Mbotyi River Lodge
- 2 nights at The Springbok Lodge
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- 3x Shark Dives in Aliwal Shoal
- 3x Reef Dives in Aliwal Shoal
- 2x Shark Dives in Protea Banks
- 2x Reef Dives in Protea Banks
(all dives will be on EANx - if certified)
- 5 Days of "Sardine Run" Seafari
- DAN Short-Term Insurance, providing emergency coverage for scuba diving activities during your stay.
- 1x Afternoon Drive
- 1x Early Morning Drive
- 1x Evening Drive
- Tanks and Weights
- from and to Durban International "King Shaka" Airport (on defined dates)
- all internal transfers related to the program
Please note that any unused services or activities included in the package are non-refundable.
How You Are Protected on Your Trip
At Élite Diving Agency, your safety is our priority. That's why every trip includes DAN Short-Term Insurance, providing emergency coverage for scuba diving activities during your stay. This means:
Emergency medical treatment for diving injuries
Hyperbaric therapy & evacuation
Travel disruption support in case of a diving accident
Worldwide coverage including your country of residence
No action required — we’ve got you covered.
This short-term policy is fully included in your package, so you can dive with peace of mind.
Want Full-Year Coverage? Upgrade with DAN Sport Silver
For divers looking for extended protection, we suggest an optional upgrade: the DAN Sport Silver annual plan.
With this upgrade, you’ll enjoy:
365-day coverage for diving activities, anywhere in the world
90 days of non-diving travel emergency coverage
Legal support, third-party liability, and more
Ideal for divers who travel or train year-round
This policy is managed directly through DAN, and you can purchase it in a few clicks using our partner link below:
We highly recommend this option to any diver pursuing certifications, professional training, or multiple dive trips throughout the year.
Why We Trust DAN
DAN (Divers Alert Network) is the world’s most trusted name in diving safety and emergency assistance. With over 40 years of experience and global support centers, DAN gives divers peace of mind wherever their fins take them.
- International Travel
- Single room supplement
- Drinks
- Dives not listed
- Diving gear not listed (available upon request)
- PADI Certification: Enriched Air “Nitrox” PADI Certification
- Insurance: Travel insurance is not included
- Other: All that is not mentioned above
Being prepared will elevate your Sardine Run experience. Here’s what we recommend:
- Personal Gear: Mask, snorkel, fins, and your dive computer are ideal your own best comfort. Your dry or semi-dry wetsuit is also recommended.
- Warm Layers: Waterproof jacket, fleece, hat, and dry clothes for boat rides
Dry Bag: For keeping towels, clothes, and electronics safe and dry
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and a hat
Camera Gear: If you’re a photographer, this is a dream shoot—bring underwater gear
Do I need to be an advanced diver?
No, but you must be comfortable in open water with moderate current. Advanced Open Water Certification is preferable.
What’s the diving schedule like?
We aim for 2 dives per day, depending on weather and sea conditions.
What if the sardines don’t appear?
While sightings vary year to year, the trip includes other rich marine encounters and scenic adventures. We work with the best local operators to maximize your chances.
Is diving with sharks safe?
YES! As long as you follow your guide's instructions and directions. We will never offer a dangerous experience to our divers!
How do I get around?
Transfers to destinations during the trip are included. Other transfers can be arranged upon request.
Book The Sardine Run Here
Select your choice of experience
Scuba Holidays Experiences
Scuba diving holidays around the world
Coming Soon
Your next Holidays Experiences with EDA
Maldives
Holiday in Paradise
Maldives
Maldivian Tigers
Galapagos
Resort & Boat
Indonesia
Raja Ampat
