A Sardine Run in the Azores

Le Sardine Run, a fascinating event where whales, dolphins, sharks, and birds feast on large schools of sardines, is known for offering an unforgettable experience. While this spectacle is often associated with South Africa and Mexico, it is also possible to enjoy it nearby, around the Portuguese islands of the Azores, from mid-August to the end of September.

A reduced-scale spectacle

Although the scale of the phenomenon is different in the Atlantic, with the fish being smaller than usual sardines, the spectacle remains remarkable. On the small island of Santa Maria, we are guided by Rainer, an expert with years of experience in South Africa. He works with a local diving center that provides boats and skippers, one of whom has an impressive visual acuity for spotting marine life. Together, they manage to detect the slightest signs on the water’s surface and locate the baitballs, where hungry predators feast on the fish.

Discovering a volcanic archipelago

Santa Maria, quiet and charming, is located south of São Miguel. The island is characterized by its volcanic origin, peaking at nearly 600 meters at Pico Alto. This unique geology shapes breathtaking landscapes. Two sandy beaches, São Lourenço et Praia Formosa, punctuate its coastline, while the rest is bordered by steep cliffs that limit access to the sea. There are also hexagonal columns of basalt and red ash, testifying to volcanic activity. A plateau at the island’s periphery slows marine currents, especially the Gulf Stream, bringing rich marine biodiversity.