Turtle Tracking - South Africa

Turtle Tracking Tours in South Africa

Each summer, the pristine beaches of northern KwaZulu-Natal transform into one of nature’s most extraordinary theatres – the nesting grounds of the endangered Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles. Turtle tracking tours in South Africa offer you the rare opportunity to witness this ancient ritual up close, as these remarkable reptiles return to the very shores where they were born to lay their eggs.

Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll journey into the iSimangaliso Wetland Park at night, walking along moonlit beaches as the sound of waves mingles with the whisper of the warm Indian Ocean breeze. The experience is both humbling and unforgettable – from spotting a massive Leatherback hauling herself up the sand, to quietly observing the delicate process of her burying the eggs, and, later in the season, watching hatchlings emerge and make their perilous dash to the sea.

These tours are more than just wildlife encounters; they are an immersive conservation experience. Your guides share fascinating insights into turtle biology, migration, and the critical efforts to protect them from threats like poaching and natural predators. With only a small number of people allowed on each tour, the experience is intimate and respectful to the turtles.

Turtle tracking tours operate exclusively during the summer months, from November to March, when nesting and hatching occur. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the raw beauty of nature, this is a once-in-a-lifetime South African adventure you’ll never forget.