experiences

Turtle Trackingexperience the miracle of life

A wilderness bucket list, brace yourself for a breathtaking experience as this massive reptile launches out of the sea and starts her journey up the beach just metres away from you. Under the cover of darkness, follow mother turtles as they return to the same beach where they were born to begin the cycle all over again. Watch mesmerised as the mother turtle digs a hole and goes into a trance-like state while laying her eggs before returning to the depths of the sea.

We are fortunate to have been awarded a rare concession which allows us to operate one turtle drive each night during the turtle season (November – February). The turtle drive takes place around low tide and can last up to 4 hours. There is a significant cost linked to the concession and hence this drive is charged as an extra activity, unlike the turtle walk which can be undertaken at any time. The concession fee helps iSimangaliso Wetland Park to conduct invaluable turtle research and protection programmes which are fundamental to the success of turtle conservation.

highlights

  • The chance to witness turtles laying their eggs early in the season or the emerging hatchlings later in the season
  • Supporting turtle conservation

What some of our guests had to say:

important notes:

  • Turtle drives are dependant on weather conditions.
  • Since this is nature, we cannot guarantee sightings of specific species.