Wildlife Experience KwaZulu-Natal
The Sardine Run
The greatest shoal on earth — billions of sardines migrate up the KZN coast each winter, drawing dolphins, sharks and gannets.
Worth a Detour
Source Verified
Trip Role
Worth a Detour
Ideal stay
1 week
Best for
Marine photography and action
Our take
The greatest show on earth, provided you have the patience to chase it.
The greatest show on earth, provided you have the patience to chase it.
- Trip Role
- Worth a Detour
- Ideal Stay
- 1 week
- Time Needed
- 5-7 days
- Best For
- Marine photography and action
- Go If
- You are an experienced diver or photographer looking for the ultimate marine spectacle.
Source Verified
Why it's worth your time
An annual natural phenomenon where billions of sardines migrate up the KwaZulu-Natal coast, triggering a massive feeding frenzy of dolphins, sharks, whales, and gannets.
What we love
The chaos of the 'bait ball' where predators from all sides converge on the sardines.
What to know
It is highly unpredictable; the run may not happen in the same location or intensity every year.