Are you interested in learning everything about the Sardine Run? Discover where to see it, what it is, fun facts, and much more… Keep reading!
What is the Sardine Run?
The ‘Sardine Run’ is an experience you must live at least once in a lifetime. It is the largest marine migration in the world, a unique event that follows the annual migration of sardines along the stunning rugged coast of South Africa.
As the schools of sardines move northward along the coast, their size tends to grow, eventually forming the largest shoals in the world.
This incredible journey attracts a multitude of predators that track and follow the sardine migration, exploiting this abundant and localized food source. It is hard to describe the excitement of dolphins, various bird species, whales, Cape fur seals, and sharks as they “hunt” the sardines.
Here is a summary video of our trip to South Africa to witness the Sardine Run:
The well-known problem for sardines when forming these shoals is that they become easily detectable, and thus predators can find them effortlessly. At this moment, predators such as the copper shark, dusky shark, and blacktip shark join the hunt, along with game fish like tarpon, leerfish, and geelbek. We also cannot forget about mammals like Cape fur seals and dolphins.
Dolphins and sharks seek opportunities to attack the sardines when they form a bait ball. This is the sardines’ natural reaction when feeling threatened, as they perceive safety in staying together. These ‘bait balls’ vary in size and frequency, and the action in some of the larger ones lasts for hours. Southern humpback whales and Bryde’s whales can also be seen seeking this dramatic feast.
Once the massive school of fish reaches the surface, birds such as gannets, cormorants, terns, and seagulls join the hunt, diving at high speed from the sky.
Where to See the Sardine Run?
This spectacular phenomenon can be seen along the eastern coast of South Africa up to the southern coast of KwaZulu Natal. The ocean current found in Agulhas pushes the Benguela current, which originates from the channel between Mozambique and Madagascar, bringing warmer waters. This current is used by the sardines as a route to move north.
Best Time for the Sardine Run
After several weeks migrating north, the sardines swim out to sea and are transported along the inner edge of the Agulhas current back to the southern Cape to spawn. It is important to mention that the Sardine Run is a natural phenomenon; therefore, the exact timing cannot be predicted.
Generally, the best times to witness the ‘run’ are from May to July.
Diving Trips to See the Sardine Run
At Lluís Masuet Expeditions, as a travel agency specialized in diving, we offer a magical and unique trip to South Africa to witness the greatest spectacle of marine nature worldwide. You only need to contact us with no obligation, and we will be delighted to help you fulfill your dream of experiencing the Sardine Run.
Here is the page for the scheduled trip we have for June 2023 in case you want more detailed information: SARDINE RUN – SOUTH AFRICA
