Seasonal changes are an exciting time on the South Coast of KZN, with cool temperatures bringing the annual marine phenomenon of sardines running! This annual spectacle is a treat for visitors to the area and makes winter the ultimate holiday on the KZN South Coast.
Dr. Ryan Daly, a marine scientist at the Institute of Oceanography, said he hopes for another good sardine run this year.
Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), says the tourism sector is ready to welcome the influx of visitors eager to experience the sardine running firsthand. The reason this is not an event to be missed is when you plan your sardine escape! ”
1. It is a world famous phenomenon
The sardine run is known as “the largest shallow water on earth” due to the breathtaking vision of billions of silver sardines traveling along the coastline. This is a hallmark of many internationally created wildlife documentaries, unlike other movements across the planet.
2. Experience a marine encounter between living creatures
Sardines are impressive in their own right, but the enormous amount of marine life that accompany them makes this an inevitable marine event. Hungry seabirds dive from the sky, including gannets, terns and cor, making this a paradise for birdwatchers. Dolphins, sharks, and even bride whales can be found by rounding up sardines in bait balls before feasting on silver fish. For visitors, such marine encounters can be enjoyed from the coast, by boat, or underwater on one of the top diving sites of the KZN South Coast.
3. Unique photo opportunities
For underwater and wildlife photographers, there's no time for a sardine run to take that award-winning shot! Sardine run offers an unparalleled opportunity to film dramatic scenes of marine life in action. The scale of this incredible event makes for a spectacular visual.
4. See “Blue Economy” in operation
The sardines' running are more than just natural sights. It is also an important economic driver for the entire South KZN coast. Head to the coast and watch local anglers net sardines directly from the coast! Sardines are also used in many local dishes, giving tourists on the South Coast of KZN the opportunity to enjoy the full flavour of the sardine run.
5. Explore the KZN South Coast
Visiting the KZN South Coast for sardine orchids supports local communities and ecotourism initiatives. By taking guided tours or staying at local accommodations, visitors are contributing to the region's sustainable development. But there's plenty to explore from the natural coastal reserves from Blue Flag Beach (the highest number in KZN!) to hiking trails, adventure tours and hinterlands where cultural experiences await you.
How can I see the sardines running?
Sardine run can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, and local tour operators run dedicated sardine run tours for a comprehensive experience. Beyond these visitors you can catch sardines running from.
Boats: There are plenty of charter boats that will take guests to the annual close-up experience of sardine running. These include surveillance from the boat, snorkeling and scuba diving in Aliwal shawls or Protea Banks, or deep sea fishing. Deck View: Enjoy sardine running action from the beach or one of many whale viewing decks, including Um Tent Weni Konservant Sea Whale Deck, Rams Gate Whale Deck, Impiti Beach Kiosk, Umdhoni Golf Club Whale Deck. Eating and Beverage: KZN South Coast has many ocean-rich pubs, bars and restaurants offering delicious seafood meals with fantastic views. Take a run of sardines while enjoying cocktails and fantastic food. Sky: Get another perspective by checking the sardine's driving from microlights, helicopters, or light aircraft. There are experienced local pilots organising flights through this ocean view.
Book your sardine run on the KZN South Coast, where ocean sunrise and hinterland adventures await you! Visit the KZN South Coast website at www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za. Following on to sightseeing on the South Coast on Facebook. A YouTube South Coast Tourism and Investment Company. @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; South Coast tourism and investment company on LinkedIn. Click here to check out our previous SCTIE press releases. Find out why the KZN South Coast is a top tourist destination here.
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