Activities · Seasonal

Turtle Tours in iSimangaliso

Watch sea turtles come ashore to nest on the protected beaches of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site, one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences on the Elephant Coast.

1 November – 28 FebruaryGuided toursWe can arrange it
Sea turtle digging its nest in the sand at night on an iSimangaliso beach

Turtle season

An exceptional night on the beach

Turtle nesting season runs from 1 November to 28 February. Tours go out either on the back of an open game viewing vehicle, or on foot at Sodwana Bay.

The beaches where the turtles nest are protected to keep these amazing animals safe, so special tours are run by experienced, qualified guides who let you see this remarkable sight without disturbing it.

Good to know

Planning your turtle tour

Book ahead

Tours are limited in season. Let us know when you book your stay and we will make a reservation for you.

Two ways to go

By open game viewing vehicle, or on foot at Sodwana Bay.

Make a trip of it

Spend the day at Sodwana Bay's beaches and reefs before the evening tour.

Questions?

Contact us and we will help you plan it.

Stay for turtle season

Base yourself on a private sand forest reserve near Hluhluwe. See our rooms and suites.

Frequently asked questions

When is turtle season?

From 1 November to 28 February each year.

How do turtle tours work?

Tours run with experienced, qualified guides, either on an open game viewing vehicle or on foot at Sodwana Bay. The nesting beaches are protected, so these guided tours are the way to see the turtles.

Can you book a turtle tour for us?

Yes. Let us know when you book your stay and we will reserve your tour.

More things to do

Pair it with another outing

White sand beach and warm ocean at Sodwana Bay

Diving and beaches at Sodwana Bay

±1 hr 20 · 95 kmFull day
Whale-watching boat on the ocean off St Lucia

Whale watching from St Lucia

±1 hr · 65 kmSeasonal
Guests photographing an elephant from an open game drive vehicle in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Big Five game drives

±40 min · 35 kmHalf or full day