Sardine Run South Africa

The Sardine Run: South Africa’s Spectacular Underwater Migration

If you’re a lover of the ocean and its many wonders, then the Sardine Run in South Africa should be on your bucket list. Considered one of the greatest marine spectacles on Earth, this phenomenon sees billions of sardines migrating along the coast of the Eastern Cape, creating a breathtaking natural display of life, predators, and ocean drama. As the sardines swarm along the shoreline, a frenzy of activity unfolds, drawing not only tourists but an entire ecosystem of marine predators.

What is the Sardine Run?
Every year, from May to July, millions (sometimes billions) of sardines embark on their long migration from the cold waters of the southern Indian Ocean to the warmer waters of South Africa's coast. This migration is not only a marvel to witness but also a crucial event for the entire marine food chain. The sardines, though small, become the stars of a much larger show, attracting predators like dolphins, sharks, sea birds, and even whales, all of whom chase after the sardines for their high-energy feast.

The best place to catch the Sardine Run is along the Wild Coast of South Africa, stretching from the city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal down to Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. The underwater action takes place around the cool, nutrient-rich waters of the Agulhas Current, where the sardines are most often found in large shoals.

Why is it so Special?
Unrivaled Marine Diversity: Watching the Sardine Run is like witnessing an underwater war zone in the best sense of the word. The sheer number of species vying for their next meal makes for an awe-inspiring spectacle. You'll see dolphins performing synchronized attacks, schools of predatory fish hunting in unison, and even the occasional great white shark joining the chaos. Watching a pod of orcas take down a dolphin is a rare, but remarkable sight.
The Action: What makes the Sardine Run so incredible is not just the numbers, but the drama of it all. The sardines move in massive, tight schools to avoid predators, creating the illusion of a shimmering, pulsating wall of silver. These “bait balls” are surrounded by dolphins who herd them closer to the surface, sharks that dart in and out, and seagulls that dive in from above. Nature's predators are all at play in this remarkable feeding frenzy.
Ecological Importance: Beyond the thrill of the chase, the Sardine Run is crucial for the health of marine ecosystems. Sardines are a significant food source for many animals, and their annual migration helps maintain the balance in the ocean’s food web. Without the Sardine Run, many of these animals would have to find new feeding grounds or would face much leaner times.
Best Time to Visit
The Sardine Run typically peaks between June and July when the sardines are closest to the shore. However, the exact timing can vary each year depending on water temperatures, currents, and weather patterns. To catch the best action, planning a trip for these months is key. Keep in mind that the event is unpredictable, and the sardines may appear in different locations, so booking a tour with local guides will increase your chances of seeing the spectacle.

Where to Experience It
Durban: As one of the larger cities on the coast, Durban is a popular jumping-off point for tourists heading to the Sardine Run. Several dive shops and tour companies offer guided expeditions to view the migration from a boat or to dive in the heart of the action.
Aliwal Shoal: Located just south of Durban, Aliwal Shoal is known as one of the premier dive sites to experience the Sardine Run. The area is famous for its biodiversity and clear waters, making it a hotspot for divers who want to get up close to the action. The shoal’s waters are home to several species of sharks, dolphins, and turtles, all of which get involved in the feeding frenzy.
Port St. Johns: This small, picturesque town is right in the middle of the action and is one of the top spots along the Wild Coast. The deep-sea waters off the coast of Port St. Johns are perfect for spotting the massive sardine schools, and local guides offer boat tours to witness the migration first-hand.
Cintsa Bay & Coffee Bay: These less-visited spots along the Wild Coast also offer incredible Sardine Run experiences for those who want a more intimate adventure away from the larger crowds.
How to Experience the Sardine Run
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The Sardine Run is best experienced underwater, and there are several operators who offer snorkeling or scuba diving trips during this time. Diving with sharks, dolphins, and other marine life while surrounded by millions of sardines is truly one of the most unique experiences on the planet.
Boat Tours: If you don’t want to dive, boat tours offer a great way to observe the action. You can still get incredibly close to the feeding frenzy, with the added bonus of being able to watch everything unfold from the surface. Some boat tours also offer the opportunity to swim with dolphins and other marine creatures.
Aerial Viewing: If you’re looking for a truly bird’s eye view, consider taking a scenic flight over the ocean to observe the sardine schools and predators from above. This can be particularly stunning at dawn or dusk when the ocean is bathed in golden light.