South Africa Sardine Run 2027

Guided Group Trip

Join this amazing specialty trip to see the famous sardine run and a land-based open vehicle African safari.

June 2027 - Exact Dates TBD

Predicted prices starting from $5,999 per person (this trip will be a combo of Sardine Run and Kruger NP)*

Trip Leader: TBD

*Price listed is an approximation and is subject to confirmation.

Why Join This Trip?

Best time to witness the Sardine Run: see dolphin super pods, sharks, and humpback whales!
5 full days on the water chasing the Sardine Run
3 days of land-based African safari to see the Big 5: lions, leopards, elephants, rhino, and buffalo
25% off rental photo gear from Bluewater Photo
Fully refundable deposit until 18 months from departure.

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Trip Overview

Over the years, the Sardine Run has provided excitement across the globe with numerous shark species, humpback whales and dolphin super pods joining in the migration. Throw the hyperactive cape gannets into the mix and we have “The Ultimate Marine Migration” during the Sardine Run.

This trip includes all accommodations and 5 full days on the water chasing the Sardine Run. Your South African experience finishes off in the stunningly picturesque Nambiti Private Game Reserve, a 21,000 acre, Big 5, malaria-free game reserve. The Safari Lodge epitomizes the perfect safari experience with beautiful, luxurious tented suites, excellent service, superb cuisine and prolific wildlife - ensuring an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal battlefields, the lodge offers guests a chance to unwind in a picture-perfect setting.

Marine Life to Photograph

During the epic sardine run, you'll be surrounded by dolphins, sharks, diving birds, whales, game fish, seals, and of course millions of sardines that make this one of nature's most awesome events. You'll likely witness passing humpbacks as well.

Read the reviews on diving South Africa and the recap on our previous South Africa trip.

Diving Conditions

Mid June - mid July is the best time to witness the Sardine Run.

Water temperature: Ranges between 15 – 22ºC (59 – 71ºF)
Avg. visibility: 2 – 30m
Wetsuit needed: 5 – 7 mm wetsuit is recommended
Topside temperature: 14 – 25 ºC (58 – 76 ºF)
Minimum dive qualifications: The minimum requirement to join Sardine Run is Open Water Diver with at least 150+ Dives

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Trip Type

This trip is a GUIDED GROUP TRIP. It will be led by an experienced Bluewater Trip Leader who will provide logistical assistance and support throughout the trip. While you are welcome to bring your underwater photography equipment, the Trip Leader is not necessarily a photo expert and is unable to offer much in the way of photography advice. Our Guided Group Trips provide an excellent opportunity for guests who enjoy meeting and traveling with other like-minded individuals or for those who benefit from the additional reassurances of group travel.

Learn more about what's included in this trip type.

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Travel Information

International flights: Guests should fly into and out of King Shaka International Airport (code: DUR). Departure flight on on the last day must be after 4pm. Airport transfers on arrival and departure: Transfers are included in the price.

Flight Package

Our group trips attract guests from all over the globe and many of our customers prefer to book their own flights to take advantage of mileage points or credit card discounts. For these reasons, flights are not included in our group trip packages.

However, we are more than happy to work with you to find the best travel itinerary for your trip and will gladly give suggestions and advice, even if you make the final booking. We will check through your travel reservations at any time to ensure they fit with the trip schedule and can give recommendations on transit hotels and day tours where needed.

If you would like us to book flights, hotels, and transfers for your domestic and/or international travel on your behalf, we are also happy to arrange this. Please be advised that there is a 10% fee for this service to cover our booking and administration costs.

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