Sardine Run Ocean Safari
The Sardine Run is one of the worldโs most exciting ocean events. Each winter, billions of sardines migrate up South Africaโs Wild Coast. As they move, dolphins drive them into bait balls, gannets dive at full speed, and sharks circle in the hunt. At the same time, humpback whales travel past on their own migration route, adding to the drama.
From May to July, the best places to witness the action are Cintsa, Mdumbe, and Port St Johns. Each location offers a different stage of the run, which means visitors can choose between early shoals or peak feeding frenzies. Whether you are diving, snorkelling, or photographing from a boat, the Sardine Run provides rare moments in nature where the ocean truly comes alive.
The magic of the Sardine Run lies in its unpredictability. Whether you find yourself drifting above early shoals rolling past Cintsa; or youโre in Mdumbe watching dolphins carve through bait balls as gannets rain down like spears. By the time the migration reaches Port St Johns, the action often peaks with dense shoals, high-speed predation, and some of the most dramatic ocean moments anywhere on the coast. No two days in any of these destinations ever look the same, and thatโs exactly what makes this migration so captivating. For wildlife lovers, ocean fanatics, and photographers chasing once-in-a-lifetime encounters, the Sardine Run offers a front-row seat to nature in full throttle.
Cinstsa โ May
Start your Sardine Run adventure in Cintsa during May. Early shoals move close to shore, and as a result, sharks, dolphins, gannets and whales follow in dramatic feeding scenes.
Mdumbe โ June
In June the action shifts to Mdumbe. The clear waters and untouched coast make it easier to follow the bait balls. At the same time, predators gather in large numbers, creating thrilling underwater encounters.
Port St Johns โ June & July
By late June and July, Port St Johns becomes the centre of the Sardine Run. Here the shoals are at their largest. Because of this, huge numbers of dolphins, whales, sharks and seabirds arrive, making every day unforgettable.