EcoLife's Marine Biology Conservation Expeditions traverse the Eastern coastal regions and seaboard of South Africa where the warm tropical waters of the Indian ocean wash ashore on the narrow continental shelf. We travel onboard our safari vehicles and explore the Natal bioregion.

The program includes terrestrial game parks where the endangered black rhino roams with a variety of wildlife species adapted to the coastal forests. The Estuaries host unique species and the coastal waters are home to 3 dolphin species. We might even encounter Southern Right Whales.

The focus of our program is on the ongoing conservation efforts in our marine and greater coastal regions.

Your flight will arrive at OR Tambo International Airport. As you exit the customs area, you will be greeted by a super size statue of Oliver Tambo. EcoLife Representatives will meet you at the Arrivals Hall and take you to your overnight stay near the airport.

With the city in the rear view mirror, our journey takes us east to the Province of Kwazulu Natal, heading to Kosi Bay.

Our days will be spent with the local Tsonga fishermen tending their fish kraals and learn about their centuries-old sustainable practices. We snorkel in the estuary, exploring the rich and colorful tropical fish species and turtles during nesting season.

The guided boat trip on the estuary and Kosi Bay Mouth reveals the diverse wildlife, beautiful aquatic bird species and mangrove forests. This is a cultural and educational enrichment experience giving insights into the local communities and conservation efforts protecting this delicate ecosystem.

We remain in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and travel to Sodwana Bay.

An Introduction to Scuba course is available for those without PADI or NAUI certificates to ensure everyone can indulge in the underwater wonder world. Divers can explore Two Mile, Five Mile and Seven Mile reef swimming with rays, moray eels, seasonal whale sharks and dolphin species.

For those who prefer shallower waters, snorkeling around the shallow reefs and tidal pools provide an equally exhilarating experience.

Our journey takes us to St Lucia, a small town surrounded by beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife. The wetlands, forests and coastal dunes are home to hippos, crocodiles, 176 bird species and many more African game species.

We swap boat rides for game drives in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park searching for the endangered large Black Rhino, tiny Suni antelope and various antelope species.

Time to visit, Umlalazi Nature Reserve, home to rare bird species like the palm-nut vulture, mangrove swamps, dune forests and the beautiful Raphia Palm.

Here, we will seek the peace and tranquility of unspoiled beaches and walking trails.

A hike on the Mangrove trail with its fiddler crabs, mudskippers and mangrove kingfisher is a must.

Heading back, we spend time at uShaka Marine World in Durban. This world-class aquarium is home to a huge variety of marine life.

The South African Association of Marine Biology Research achieve their marine conservation goals through their 3 main operating divisions i.e. The Oceanographic Research Institute, uShaka Marine World and uShaka Sea World Education. We will spend time with the researchers and marine conservation experts.

We say goodbye to the salt waters of Kwazulu Natal and head back to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to be in time for everyone's flights back home.

Please note that the itinerary is a broad overview of activities. The fine schedule will be provided closer to departure.