• 7 nights at Eco Swell Lodge (private king-bed chalet, en-suite)

• All meals and soft drinks (alcohol extra)

• Up to 6 full ocean days (weather permitting)

• 1x 30 min massage

• Transfer from Umata airport

• Local expert crew and safety support

• Flights, travel and dive insurance (required), alcohol, seasickness pills, and personal expenses. We recommend a trip insurance.

This trip is designed for ocean enthusiasts with a strong comfort level in open water.

Non-divers are welcome to join the expedition, as most activity takes place at the surface while snorkeling. Certification isn’t required, though basic freediving ability and comfort in open water are helpful. The crew provides daily safety briefings and in-water guidance, but strong swimming skills are essential.

You should be comfortable swimming in open ocean and able to climb back onto a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) from the water.

We spend long days at sea - typically up to 7-8 hours - fully exposed to the elements. Expect sun, wind, and occasional spray, and bring sunscreen, a windbreaker, hat, sunglasses, and a buff. Ocean conditions vary, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication.

Water temperatures range from 16–22°C, and we recommend at least a 5mm wetsuit with a hood. Long-blade freediving fins are ideal for staying with fast-moving action.

Our base, Mdumbi, is a remote coastal village with no shops or facilities, so bring all personal essentials. Evenings can be cool in the South African winter (June), with land temperatures around 14–21°C — pack warm clothing for nights.

The Sardine Run offers a wide range of marine wildlife encounters, though sightings vary depending on ocean conditions and timing.

• Very likely (90–100%) – Common & bottlenose dolphins, Bryde’s whales, humpback whales, bronze whaler, dusky & spinner sharks, Cape gannets, Cape cormorants, seabirds, and loggerhead turtles.

• Occasional (around 30%) – Humpback dolphins, southern right whales, Cape fur seals, African penguins, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, and shy or black-browed albatross.

• Rare (around 1%) – Orca, whale sharks, great white, tiger & bull sharks, sunfish (mola mola), blue marlin, and oceanic manta rays.

Each day on the water is different - some calm and patient, others filled with fast-moving action.

Most Sardine Run action happens within the top few metres of water, moving quickly with the bait balls. Freediving allows for faster mobility and minimal disturbance to the wildlife. Scuba gear can limit response time and reduce chances to stay close to the action.

Each week is limited to 7 guests, creating a focused, small-group experience.

The Wild Coast is highly weather-dependent, and launch decisions are made daily by the skipper for safety. We plan for six potential ocean days, adjusting the schedule when conditions require. On non-diveable days, we arrange alternative activities suited to the group - such as kayaking, scenic walks and coastal hikes, or visits to nearby villages to experience the local culture and landscape.

The Sardine Run is a professionally operated marine wildlife expedition, conducted in collaboration with experienced local captains and guides who work in these conditions every season. Safety is our top priority, and all activities are planned around weather, sea conditions, and participant ability.

That said, the expedition takes place in the open ocean and involves inherent risks, including variable sea conditions, currents, boat transfers, and interaction with wild marine animals. While we follow strict safety protocols and adapt plans as needed, no open-water wildlife experience can be entirely risk-free.

Participants must be confident swimmers, follow all guide instructions, and carry appropriate travel insurance. By joining the expedition, you acknowledge and accept these inherent risks as part of a unique and natural ocean experience.

No wildlife encounter can ever be guaranteed. The Sardine Run is a natural, unpredictable event. What we can promise is an experienced team, optimal timing, and full days on the water, maximizing the chance to witness it.

To keep the experience safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone, we hold a short introductory call with each applicant before confirming a booking. This conversation helps us ensure that everyone joining has aligned expectations, the right level of ocean comfort, and a compatible group dynamic for a small, close-knit expedition.

It’s also a chance for you to ask questions, understand the conditions and logistics in more detail, and make sure the trip is the right fit for you. Spots are confirmed only after this conversation and a deposit.

After the introductory call, a 600€ deposit is required to secure your place. The deposit is non-refundable, except if you find a suitable replacement for your spot and the booking is successfully transferred.

A 600€ deposit secures your spot and is non-refundable. The remaining balance is paid in two parts - 50% by 31st December 2025 and the final 50% by 31st January 2026.

If you cancel before 31st January, you’ll receive a full refund minus the deposit of 600€.

Cancellations before 28th February 2026 receive a 30% refund of the payments minus the deposit.

Cancellations after 1st March 2026 are non-refundable.

You may transfer your place to another qualified participant if you find a suitable replacement.