Marine Biology Conservation Expedition

During this expedition you will:

• Travel along South Africa's spectacular eastern coastline and experience the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

• Explore the diverse marine, coastal, and estuarine ecosystems of the KwaZulu-Natal bioregion.

• Visit protected game reserves that are home to the critically endangered black rhino and a variety of coastal wildlife.

• Observe the rich biodiversity of estuaries, coastal forests, beaches, and offshore environments.

• Search for the three resident dolphin species that inhabit these coastal waters.

• Look out for Southern Right Whales during their seasonal migration.

• Learn how South Africa's marine and coastal ecosystems function and why they are globally important.

• Discover the conservation challenges facing marine life and the innovative efforts to protect these habitats.

• Meet marine biologists, conservationists, and wildlife professionals working in the field.

• Investigate the connections between oceans, estuaries, coastal forests, and the wildlife that depends on them.

• Participate in hands-on educational activities that provide real-world conservation experience.

• Develop a greater appreciation for marine biodiversity and the importance of protecting South Africa's coastal ecosystems.

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.