Fees · Destination Guide
An open-ocean safari where sardines trigger the Wild Coast's ultimate feeding frenzy
Key fee: Pondoland Marine Protected Area scuba operations permit (operator-held)
Included in licensed dive packages
Updated Feb 13, 2026 • 19 sources
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
The Sardine Run is typically sold as a packaged expedition, so most costs are bundled into the operator price. There is no standard nationwide marine-park tag for divers like in some island destinations, but commercial operations inside MPAs are regulated. Budget extra for nature reserve gate fees on topside day trips and for local guides on remote hikes.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pondoland Marine Protected Area scuba operations permit (operator-held) | Included in licensed dive packages Operator permit (conditions apply) |
| Commercial scuba diving businesses operating in the Pondoland MPA |
| Handled by the licensed dive operator |
Regulations require a permit to operate a scuba diving business in the Pondoland MPA, and vessels deploying divers must display an alpha flag. As a guest, confirm you are diving with a permitted operator. |
| Mkambathi Nature Reserve entry (for Waterfall Bluff) | Varies by season and residency per day | Visitors entering Mkambathi Nature Reserve | Reserve gate or official booking channels | If you visit Waterfall Bluff or hike inside the reserve, you may pay a gate or conservation fee. Ask your accommodation or guide for current rates. |
| Local guide fees (hikes and village experiences) | Varies per activity | Guided hikes, cultural visits, trail shuttles | Local guides or tour operators | Guides can improve safety on remote coastline routes and keep tourism income in local communities. |
Fee
Operator permit (conditions apply)
Regulations require a permit to operate a scuba diving business in the Pondoland MPA, and vessels deploying divers must display an alpha flag. As a guest, confirm you are diving with a permitted operator.
per day
If you visit Waterfall Bluff or hike inside the reserve, you may pay a gate or conservation fee. Ask your accommodation or guide for current rates.
per activity
Guides can improve safety on remote coastline routes and keep tourism income in local communities.