Every summer, loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles return to the beaches of iSimangaliso Wetland Park to lay their eggs, often on the same stretch of coast where they hatched decades earlier. It is one of the longest-running turtle monitoring programmes in the world, and joining a licensed turtle tour is an unforgettable night out.
When is turtle season?
Nesting runs roughly from November to January, when females come ashore at night to dig nests and lay. Hatching follows from about January to March, when the young turtles break out and head for the waves. December and January give you a chance of seeing both.
How the tours work
Turtle tours leave in the evening and drive along the beach in licensed vehicles, stopping when a guide spots tracks or a turtle. Only permitted concession operators may drive the beach, and they follow strict rules on distance, light and noise so the turtles are not disturbed. Tours are several hours long and finish late.
Loggerheads and leatherbacks
Loggerheads are the turtles you are most likely to see. Leatherbacks are rarer and far bigger: they are the world's largest turtle and an adult can weigh several hundred kilograms. Seeing a leatherback nest is a real privilege.
Turtle tours further north
The northern beaches, around Bhanga Nek, Mabibi and Kosi Bay, are the heart of the nesting grounds, and community-run tours operate there too. If you are travelling the whole Route22 corridor, a night in the north increases your chances.
Frequently asked questions
Are turtle sightings guaranteed?
No. Turtles come ashore on their own schedule and weather plays a part, but in peak season (December and January) most tours find at least one turtle or hatchling activity.
Can I go on the beach at night by myself to look for turtles?
No. Driving on the beach is not allowed and the nesting beaches are protected. The only way to see nesting turtles at night is with a licensed tour operator.
Can I take photos of the turtles?
Guides control light carefully because bright light disorientates turtles. Flash photography is not allowed; follow your guide's instructions on when photos are possible.
Are turtle tours suitable for children?
Older children usually love them, but tours run late into the night and involve long periods of waiting, so check the operator's minimum age.
Book turtle tours and a place to stay
Find tour operators, lodges and self-catering near iSimangaliso Wetland Park in the Route22 directory, or tell local businesses your dates and let them come to you.
