Embark on the ultimate oceanic adventure and witness one of the most spectacular marine migrations on Earth — South Africa’s famous Sardine Run. At SEAL Expeditions, we offer a truly immersive and carefully curated experience that combines comfort, excitement, and nature at its most raw and beautiful. Below is a detailed overview of what is included in your Sardine Run package:
✈️ Return Transfers from Durban to Mbotyi
All return ground transfers between King Shaka International Airport in Durban and the coastal village of Mbotyi are included in your package. You will be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle by one of our trusted drivers, ensuring a smooth and scenic 5–6 hour journey to the lodge.
Please note: International and regional flights to and from Durban are not included.
🏡 Comfortable Accommodation at Mbotyi River Lodge
You will spend 8 nights at the beautiful Mbotyi River Lodge, ideally situated along the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape. This charming lodge is nestled between the Indian Ocean and the lush, untouched forests of Pondoland, offering you the perfect balance of wilderness and comfort.
Each room includes an en-suite bathroom, daily housekeeping, and access to the lodge’s amenities such as a swimming pool, lounge areas, and bar. Wake up to breathtaking views of the Waterfall Bluff and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
🌊 Seven Days of Ocean Excursions
Get ready for 7 action-packed days at sea (weather permitting), where you will follow bait balls, dolphins, whales, and birds as they participate in the epic Sardine Run. Our experienced crew and skippers will take you out each morning aboard semi-rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) for optimal maneuverability and access to the action.
Every afternoon, with our Award-Winning Land Tours Program, we explore local waterfalls, beaches, forests, and cultural highlights of the Wild Coast. You won’t just see the ocean—you’ll discover the soul of this remote and magical part of South Africa.
☕ Full Catering During Your Stay
Your package includes full-board catering at the lodge. This means:
- A hearty breakfast before heading out to sea
- Lunch-pack, hot and cold drinks served onboard during sea excursions
- Light lunch served at the lodge on your return from sea
- Delicious, home-cooked dinners back at the lodge each evening
We cater to most dietary requirements with prior notice. Please note that alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks are not included.
✈️ Dedicated Microlight Pilot for Ocean Scouting
One of the most unique features of SEAL Expeditions is our dedicated microlight aircraft and SEAL pilot, taking to the skies each morning at sunrise to scout for sardine activity from above. With this aerial advantage, we significantly increase our chances of finding the best possible in-water encounters, for our guest.
Our pilot is in constant radio contact with the boat crew to direct them toward the most promising areas, making our expeditions more efficient and rewarding – and results more dependable.
⚓ Essential Diving Equipment Provided
We supply the following diving equipment to all participants:
- Diving cylinders (tanks)
- Daily air fills
- Weight belts
Please bring your own personal dive gear, including wetsuit, mask, fins, snorkel, BCD, regulator, and any additional accessories. If you need assistance with rental gear, we can handle all requirements, with advance notice.
🧭 More Than Just a Dive Trip
SEAL Expeditions’ Sardine Run Experience program is designed for adventurers, ocean lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you are a scuba diver, free-diver, or snorkeler, you will be at the heart of the action.
Our expert team will guide you through this unforgettable journey, helping you safely navigate the unpredictable nature of the open sea while capturing incredible moments above and below the water.
📝 Additional Inclusions
- Daily ocean briefings
- Local guides and support staff
- Marine biology insights from our crew
- Group camaraderie and storytelling over dinners
- Access to private beaches and untouched coastal trails
💡 Important Notes
- The Sardine Run is a natural phenomenon, and sightings are dependent on conditions. We aim to maximize your chances through expert knowledge, scouting, and adaptability.
- You do not need to be a certified diver to participate. Snorkeling is often the most efficient way to interact with Sardine Run environment
- A reasonable level of fitness and comfort in the ocean is recommended.
Join SEAL Expeditions for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of the planet’s greatest wildlife spectacles. We’ve thought of everything—so you can focus on the experience, the thrill, and the magic of the Sardine Run.
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