The Sardine Run or "Sardine Migration" is certainly on the bucket list of many nature lovers!
Welcome to our world of authentic and transformative experiences! Operating in Mozambique and the Sardine Run since 2005, we're not just an agency – we're your personal guides, companions, and a wellspring of profound knowledge. Living here gives us a unique perspective, and we take immense pride in offering experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Unlike traditional agencies, we live and breathe Mozambique. Our commitment extends beyond mere transactions; we offer an intimate connection with the heart and soul of this beautiful country. We're not just experts; we're avid travelers, divers, and safari enthusiasts, bringing firsthand experiences to every adventure we curate.
And now, we're thrilled to announce our partnership with Rafael Fernández Caballero, the World Champion of Underwater Photography 2017 and European Champion 2016. His images have garnered national and international acclaim, capturing the beauty of the marine world. Growing up surrounded by the sea, Rafael's lifelong dedication to underwater photography and scuba diving has taken him to incredible places worldwide.
As a diving instructor, Rafael shares his knowledge through workshops and courses globally, raising awareness about the need to protect the marine world. Join us for an extraordinary adventure, where Rafael and Robert will guide you through the wonders of the annual Sardine Run, a bucket-list experience for nature lovers.
The Sardine Run, or 'Sardine Migration,' is a spectacle not to be missed. Whether you're a diver, non-diver, photography enthusiast, or a lover of marine predators, this natural phenomenon, coinciding with the humpback whale migration, promises an unparalleled experience.
We recommend flying directly to Mthatha Airport in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, and from there, we'll accompany you on a journey that transcends ordinary trips. From arrival to departure, we're here by your side, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
Embark on a journey with us, guided by the expertise of Rafael Fernández Caballero, and let Mozambique's beauty leave an indelible mark on your life.
INFO ABOUT THE SARDINE RUN
The Sardine run is the annual migration of sardines along the coast of South Africa towards the southern coast of the country, in KwaZulu Natal. It is the largest documented biomass migration on the planet, and is classed as the marine equivalent of the famous wildebeest migration that takes place on the Masai Mara and Serengeti plains of central Africa. And it is undoubtedly just as exciting and spectacular to witness.
Driven by forces that are not yet fully understood, millions upon millions of sardines (Sardinops sagax) travel during the winter months in South Africa from their cool habitat of Agulhas Bank in the Cape to southern KwaZulu Natal, where they go to spawn and then return.
Driven by forces that are not yet fully understood, millions upon millions of sardines leave their cool Cape habitat and move eastwards following the cold current, which in turn is driven from the south by winter storms, usually during the months of June to August.
natural phenomenon
recommended for divers
boat dives
divers and non-divers
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private divemaster
8m semi-rigid boats
advanced level
photography workshop
mega & macro fauna
ABOUT THE MARINE LIFE
Sardines are known to prefer water temperatures between 14°C and 20°C, so they travel according to temperature changes and thermoclimates.
Literally thousands of sharks, dolphins, various pelagic species and oceanic birds follow the sardines along the coast, constantly harassing and chipping away at the main shoals, and feeding on them at their own pace.
As a spectator of the Sardine Run, you often hear the term "bait ball". Hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of common dolphins form super-herds of between 100 and 30,000 members and set off in search of sardines.
The Common Dolphin has developed a technique for isolating a school of sardines and compacts them into tight pockets (known as bait balls) using bubble jets, sonar and incredible teamwork. They also have the amazing ability to time the birth of their young just before the sardine migration, allowing the adults to flash and teach hunting tactics to their young during this incredibly food-rich time of year. It is truly an unforgettable experience to watch these amazing animals cooperating with each other.
In turn, many shark species take advantage of this great feast of food, including the occasional Great White Shark, Tiger Shark, Bull Shark (known locally as the zambezi), but the most common are the Copper Shark (Carhariunus brachyurus) and Dusky Shark (Carcharhinus obscurus), which when attracted to the activity, sometimes number in the thousands.
Sometimes the dolphin and shark can be seen working together to contain the Bait ball, taking turns to enter the ball with their mouths open and swallow as many sardines as possible, until there are none left. Most bait balls are generally brought to the surface effectively blocking any possible escape route.
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This, in turn, allows oceanic bird species, such as Albatrosses, Terns, or Cape Cormorants to name a few, to take full advantage of this incredible food source. But the most common of these is the Cape gannet. This is one of the top predators in the bird world. They have incredible eyesight and have the ability to swoop 30 to 40 metres from the air towards the feast, and amazingly reach depths of 8 to 10 metres where they swim animatedly biting and swallowing any sardine within reach. They are true divers and often, on surfacing, will fight and comically jostle for any sardine that has been brought to the surface, offering fantastic photographic opportunities.
Bryde's whale is also regularly seen participating in the feast, probing and darting up from the depths with their mouths open to gobble up as many sardines as possible. They can be seen on the outskirts or in the middle of the action and wait for no permission to start feeding, with no regard for what is around them.
Several other species of whales also appear during the migration, including the Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis) and the Fin Whale (Balaenoptera bonaerensis), to name a few.
As the migration reaches KwaZulu-Natal, predatory tactics tend to change in shallow waters as the continental shelf, once again, moves seaward for a considerable distance. Here, predators accumulate bags of sardines in strategic bays, which they successfully compact, and block any escape routes, displaying an astonishing level of intelligence and teamwork among the various species.
Another totally unrelated migration that takes place during the same period as the Sardine Run is that of the Humpback Whales, which travel from Antarctic waters northwards in search of warmer waters in Mozambique and Tanzania where they mate and breed.
With the narrowing of the continental shelf along the Wild Coast, family groups of whales have the opportunity to encounter others of their species. Almost every day during the winter periods from June to October, spectacular acrobatic jumps, tail movements and loud flapping can be seen on the surface.
The Sardine Run is an ocean experience, and it is important to bear in mind that the sea is susceptible to day-to-day weather conditions, and being out in nature, bad weather scenarios can occur, and the extent of the activity may vary.
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DAY OUT DIVING
We meet daily as early as possible in the restaurant of the accommodation to have enough time to have breakfast and prepare for the departure.
The zodiac awaits us at the Umzimvubu river jetty, where all our equipment has been ready since the day before.
We embark, put on our life jackets, and set off down the river towards the breakwater, and so the day begins. Hold on tight!
After a thrilling launch through the waves, and now positioned offshore, we take off our lifejackets, get everything ready and on hand for when needed, and then we all start looking for all kinds of action, from whales, dolphins and ocean birds to the small silver sardine.
We are in contact with our gyrocopter pilot, who we like to call our "eye in the sky", and it is he, Brad, who updates us on the sightings.
Once the action is located, we determine if the action is fast moving, in which case we snorkel in the water, or if it is a more static activity, so we can go straight to the scuba gear for those with qualifications.
The daily trips last approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on sea conditions and the amount of activity. As the action is fast and furious coupled with variable sea conditions, long zodiac rides and all day at sea, the trips can be strenuous, so it is recommended that clients are relatively fit.
We are usually the last boats at sea at the end of each day, giving our clients a full day at sea, taking advantage of all that nature has to offer.
WEATHER & SEA CONDITIONS
The best weather and sea conditions on the Wild Coast are during the winter periods. Some rain and cloudy conditions can be expected on some days, but usually good weather prevails.
Sea conditions can vary from calm and smooth to rough and choppy, but as a general rule, there will always be some movement on the high seas, so for those more prone to seasickness, we recommend sea sickness tablets.
On all trips we ensure the safety of all of us first and foremost, so decisions are made based on this.
The air temperature ranges from 14ºC to 25ºC and it usually cools down at night. Water temperature ranges from 15ºC to 22ºC.
Visibility ranges from 2 to 30 metres, and as a safety precaution, water activities are only undertaken in conditions that offer at least 5 to 8 metres of visibility.
DIVE CENTER
Mozambique Experience is associated with one of Tofo's dive centres located in the best existing area, with excellent modern facilities fully equipped with swimming pool, changing rooms with hot showers, classrooms where courses are offered, cafeteria - restaurant and unbeatable views.
DIVE BOATS
We have two 8 metre semi-rigid zodiacs, both with a capacity of up to 16 divers each, although we prefer to keep groups smaller and usually go with a maximum of 8 divers per boat.
Each boat is equipped with 2 Yamaha 90hp 4 stroke engines, emergency oxygen, first aid kit, life jackets, contact radio and emergency plan.
DIVE EQUPMENT
For those who feel the cold on longer dives or during the winter months, we recommend wetsuits of at least 5mm, or even semi-dry 7mm. During the summer, when the water temperature usually stays between 27°C and 28°C a 3mm is usually sufficient.
For those who prefer to rent, Scubapro and Mares 5mm wetsuits are available, as well as a selection of closed fins and masks.
Diving cylinders are in steel and/or aluminium with capacities of 12 lt. For those wishing 15 lt. steel cylinders we recommend that you contact us before you travel to reserve them.
NITROX
Due to the profile of the dives, we always recommend diving with enriched air nitrox to increase safety and bottom times. The nitrox available is 32% and up to 40% for those certified.
For those who are not yet certified and prefer to do it here with us, it can be arranged with Robert and Lacin.
A DAY AT THE SARDINE RUN
We meet daily as early as possible in the restaurant of the accommodation to have enough time to have breakfast and prepare for the departure.
The zodiac awaits us at the Umzimvubu river jetty, where all our equipment has been ready since the day before.
We embark, put on our life jackets, and set off down the river towards the breakwater, and so the day begins. Hold on tight!
After a thrilling launch through the waves, and now positioned offshore, we take off our lifejackets, get everything ready and on hand for when needed, and then we all start looking for all kinds of action, from whales, dolphins and ocean birds to the small silver sardine.
We are in contact with our gyrocopter pilot, who we like to call our "eye in the sky", and it is he, Brad, who updates us on the sightings.
Once the action is located, we determine if the action is fast moving, in which case we snorkel in the water, or if it is a more static activity, so we can go straight to the scuba gear for those with qualifications.
The daily trips last approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on sea conditions and the amount of activity. As the action is fast and furious coupled with variable sea conditions, long zodiac rides and all day at sea, the trips can be strenuous, so it is recommended that clients are relatively fit.
We are usually the last boats at sea at the end of each day, giving our clients a full day at sea, taking advantage of all that nature has to offer.
WEATHER & SEA CONDITIONS
The best weather and sea conditions on the Wild Coast are during the winter periods. Some rain and cloudy conditions can be expected on some days, but usually good weather prevails.
Sea conditions can vary from calm and smooth to rough and choppy, but as a general rule, there will always be some movement on the high seas, so for those more prone to seasickness, we recommend sea sickness tablets.
On all trips we ensure the safety of all of us first and foremost, so decisions are made based on this.
The temperature in air ranges between 14ºC and 25ºC during the day, although it cools down early in the morning and in the evening, so we recommend warm clothes for the boat. The water temperature is between 15ºC and 22ºC.
Visibility ranges from 2 to 30 metres, and as a safety precaution, water activities are only undertaken in conditions that offer at least 5 to 8 metres of visibility.
DIVE CENTER
Mozambique Experience operates from the only dive centre based in Port St Johns all year round. It is a family run business that we have been associated with since 2008, when we started running our first Sardine Runs.
The location of the centre is ideal, on the banks of the Umzimvubu River. The atmosphere couldn't be more family friendly, and the team we work with is undoubtedly the one with the best knowledge of the area and the migration. Starting with Rob, the captain and dive master, who has been selected on several occasions by major television channels to film documentaries. And with the advantage of being the only ones who have the aerial support of our pilot Brad, who flies over the area a couple of times every day and with whom we are in direct and exclusive contact about what we see from above.
DIVE BOATS
We use 8 metre semi-rigid zodiacs with 2 Yamaha outboard engines of 85 HP each. Each boat is licensed to carry 12 passengers, including the captain and a guide, however, during the Sardine Run, we limit space and comfort to 6 divers or 8 non-divers.
Our boats are SAMSA certified and carry all required safety equipment including oxygen, first aid kits and communication devices.
DIVE EQUPMENT
With sea temperatures between 14ºC and 22ºC, we recommend 7mm wetsuit, booties, hood and gloves. We encourage all divers to bring their own wetsuit, mask and snorkel, fins, BCD and regulator, however we do have a variety of equipment for hire. Equipment hire must be booked in advance.
Scuba tanks, weight belts will be delivered on the day of arrival. The tanks are made of steel, and we have 12 and 15 litre tanks.
For non-divers, 5mm wetsuits are available for hire.
DIVE QUALIFICATION
We recommend that all recreational divers have a minimum level of advanced diving and be able to maintain the level of fitness required for the Sardine Run.
It should be understood that the Sardine Run is a high risk, fast action event, which makes this experience, often in limited visibility, a "gruelling" one. For those seeking adventure and thrills, it is guaranteed.
It is important that the diver should feel comfortable among sharks and be able to practice good buoyancy control and understand that there is no reference to the bottom as our waters are deep and the action is close to the surface.
On the first day, after you have presented your diving qualifications, we will do a check dive (possibly surrounded by some Raggedtooth Sharks). This is for your own safety and comfort, to allow you to adjust your equipment and familiarise yourself with the local conditions before all the action, because once it starts, there is not much time for adjustments.
DIVE GUIDES
Robert Marin is an experienced PADI MSDT Instructor based in Mozambique since 2011 and has led diving guided trips to the Sardine Run since 2008. He has a deep passion for nature and has an excellent knowledge of marine life locally and during the Sardine Run.
Rafa Fernandez as your host and photography workshop leader.
Important to note:
Due to our typical African surf launch & beaching of boat techniques, along with the possibility of uncomfortable and choppy sea conditions at times, we do not advise that those with limited mobility or frailty take part in boat activities of this nature.
The Sardine Run ocean experience is safe to enjoy, as a passenger, by most, however there is a certain effort required by everyone on board. As a snorkeler or diver, action can be incredibly fast paced and at times, chaotic as predator chases prey, meaning that a certain level of fitness is required to thoroughly enjoy each and every encounter and in water activity must be undertaken by those reasonably comfortable in the water.
8 days/ 7 nights
pick up & transfers
single operator based at destination
minimum 6 people
5 days of Sardine Run
snacks & drinks on boat
full pension
private divemaster
your language
accommodations
exclusive air support reporting migration
upon request
Day 1
ARRIVAL TO SOUTH-AFRICA
Arrival at Durban International Airport or Mthatha Airport (KwaZulu-Natal), then road transfer (included) to Port St Johns. Check-in at the diving center and accommodation. Afternoon off to visit the town of Port St Johns (The Wild Coast). Dinner at the guest house (included).
Day 2 to day 6
SARDINE RUN
Daily breakfast at the accommodation before departure.
Afterwards we will depart with the boat which will be ready at the dock of the accommodation.
We will do 5 full days of Sardine Run, where we will spend between 6 and 8 hours at sea. There will be lunch, refreshments and snacks on board.
We usually return to our accommodation by 4pm, which is enough time to rest or take a stroll around the area before dinner.
More information about the Sardine Run, HERE!
Day 7
PORT ST JOHNS
Breakfast (included) at accommodation. Day off diving. Relax day or optional activities: excursion to the Bluff Nature Reserve Waterfall, the Umgazana and Brazen Head or a cruise on the river of Port St Johns.
Day 8
DEPARTURE
Breakfast (included) at accommodation. Transfer to Mthatha Airport (2 hours) or Durban International Airport (5 hours, additional charges).
INCLUDES:
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Arrival airport assistance
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Transfers from Mthatha airport to Port St Johns (return)
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7 nights accommodation (double or twin room), at Port St Johns River Lodge
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5 full days of Sardine Run (with an optional extra day)
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Scuba tanks and weights for certified divers
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Lunch, refreshments and snacks on the boat
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Diving fees and permits on the Wild Coast
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Private English-speaking Divemaster specialising in the Sardine Run
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Qualified Sardine Run qualified boat skipper and guide
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Constant air support and briefing on the progress of the migration (exclusive)
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All breakfasts and dinners at the accommodation's restaurant
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Local Spanish guide
EXCLUDES:
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International and domestic flights
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Diving equipment (€8 per dive)
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Meals not specified in the previous section
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Optional activities during the trip
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Travel and diving insurance (recommended)
upon
request
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
• 50% deposit required to confirm the booking of the Experience, and remaining 50% to be paid 60 days prior to arrival • All payments done by providing bank card details will carry an extra 5% (bank fees) • All payments done through PayPal will carry an extra 5% • All payments done by bank transfers to be done using “banking our instructions” (client pays all bank transfer charges) • By paying the deposit you are deemed to have accepted our terms & conditions • Cancellations before 60 days prior to arrival will incur a cancellation fee of 50% of total booking amount (during local public holidays will incur a cancellation fee of 100% of total booking amount) • Cancellations after 60 days prior to arrival will incur a cancellation fee of 100% of total booking amount • Dive trips being cancelled due to bad weather not refundable • If as a result of a major force, such as the current pandemic caused by Covid-19 the trip cannot be made on the scheduled dates, the amount paid is not refundable and the trip will be rescheduled for other dates in accordance with the availability of the client and Mozambique Experience •
Do you know what we can see during the Sardine Run?
Southern Right Whale, Humpback Whale, Bryde's whale, Bryde's whale, Common Dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, copperhead shark, tiger shark, great white shark, dusky shark, bull shark, silky shark, Cape gannet.
