PRACTICALITIES
WHEN
At the beginning of March, the
sardines start their migration from
the southeastern coast of South
Africa, and Port Elizabeth is the best
location for the encounter from
March to May. From June to July,
operators work out of Port St. Johns
and Mbotyi, about five hours south
of Durban.
HOW
Johannesburg is the gateway city for
connecting flights to Port Elizabeth
and Durban.
STAY/DIVE
Go with an experienced operator
with the skill and passion to put you
in the right place, at the right time:
• Port Elizabeth: Rainer Schimpf
of Expert Tours
(www.expert-tours.com)
• Mbotyi: Walter Bernardis of
African Watersports
(www.africanwatersports.co.za)
TOPSIDE
At Port Elizabeth, watch endangered
African penguins at the Marine
Rehabilitation and Education Centre,
or sample some fine wines in the
city’s restaurants. Near Mbotyi, hit
the hiking trails of Silaka Nature
Reserve, the Wild Coast, or the
Pondo-Explore Trail.
ENTRY
Many visitors can travel to South
Africa without a visa for stays of up
to 90 days, including nationals of
Singapore, Australia, USA, Canada
and most European countries. Other
nationals can travel for up to 30 days
visa-free, including passport holders
from Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong
and South Korea.