The Sardine Run (Wild Coast)

International Routing

Most travelers enter South Africa via Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT), then connect to the coast. Durban (DUR) is a common gateway for Sardine Run packages that combine KwaZulu-Natal diving with Port St Johns.

Fastest Access to port St Johns

• Fly to Mthatha (UTT), then transfer by road to Port St Johns (about 90 km to 110 km depending on route).
• Alternatively, fly to Durban (DUR), Margate (MGH), or East London (ELS) and transfer by road. These transfers are longer but can fit itineraries that include Aliwal Shoal or the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.

Last-mile Reality

Port St Johns is remote. Pre-book transfers, allow buffer time, and avoid tight same-day connections on travel days.

Expect to rely on pre-arranged transfers and shuttles. Self-driving is possible, but roads can be slow and conditions vary.