Every winter millions of sardines migrate more than 1000km north along the South African Coast creating chaotic feeding frenzy of sharks, dolphins, sea lions, whales and sea birds. Witnessing this first hand means experiencing one of natures greatest spectacles. Round this off with a first class safari experience and you have a trip of a lifetime.

They did not invent diving the Sardine Run – but as one of the pioneers, they did perfect the art of safely and effectively interacting with this wonder of nature. Since 2002 SEAL Expeditions had been the industry leader in Sardine Run dive tourism – providing our brand of service to adventurers from all over the world. Their award-winning program has been the Gold Standard for the Sardine Run experience – and continues to deliver for international guests, year after year.

A warm welcome awaits at Mbotyi River Lodge located on the stunning Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Pondoland’s best kept secret is situated at the mouth of the tidal Mbotyi River nestled between the rolling hills, lush tropical forest and the warm Indian Ocean. This unique Wild Coast hotel is the perfect place for a peaceful stay after a long day in pursuit of the sardines.

Flanking a large dam in the southern Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Waterside was conceptualised, designed and built to be a natural extension of the pure utopian Klaserie wilderness from which it draws its inspiration.

Water is the source of life. Throughout the year countless animal species – including predators, elephants, hippo and buffalo – are drawn to the dam to cool off and quench thirst (sometimes in herds numbering hundreds). Here the game viewing never stops, and you literally become part of your own private Africa for an utterly immersive and sensory safari experience.

• A higher level of physical fitness is required for this expedition. Please contact Mike to discuss if this trip is right for you.

• The bait balls often are on the move and divers need to be quick and nimble getting in and out of the rib (inflatable semi-rigid hull). Static bait balls may yield an opportunity to enter on Scuba.

• Water temperature is 58-60F/13-16C

• Dive accident insurance mandatory such as DAN; Travel Insurance strongly suggested.