Whale Route Tour – Full Day – African Travel Desk

Couples, Families

Recommended for

Ever dreamed of witnessing majestic whales in their natural habitat? This tour is designed for you!

Hermanus, a renowned hotspot for whale watching, beckons visitors from around the globe to experience the awe-inspiring sight of these magnificent creatures. Between July and November, the waters off the coast become a playground for southern right whales, and it’s not uncommon for them to come astonishingly close to the shore. Imagine standing on the rocky cliffs of Hermanus, gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean, as these gentle giants breach the surface, creating a breathtaking display that leaves you in awe. For an even more immersive experience, take to the water on a boat tour, where you can feel the salty spray and truly connect with the wildlife that calls this region home.

As you journey to Hermanus, you’ll follow the scenic coastal road that winds through the stunning Overberg Region. This drive is a feast for the eyes, showcasing dramatic ocean vistas and rolling landscapes. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore two remarkable parks: the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens and the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Both locations boast beautiful walking trails that highlight the unique South African flora and provide a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the area, including a variety of bird species that thrive in these natural habitats.

Make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in the natural beauty around you, perhaps spotting some local wildlife along the way. It’s a perfect prelude to the main event—whale watching!

Please note that this unforgettable tour is seasonal, running from July to November when whale sightings are most abundant. However, if you’re eager to experience the stunning coastal scenery at any other time of year, you can arrange a private tour suited to your schedule.

Don’t miss your chance to marvel at one of nature’s most incredible spectacles in the breathtaking setting of Hermanus!

HIGHLIGHTS

Gordon’s Bay, Pringle Bay & Betty’s Bay
The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
Drive through Hamilton Russell Wine Estate (except Sundays)
Rotary Drive
Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Hermanus
Land Based whale watching
Whale-watching boat trip (optional)
Elgin
Sir Lowry’s Pass

Check ITINERARY for more details

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION

At your accommodation in Cape Town (hotel, guesthouse, …)

DEPARTURE TIME

Between 8:00 and 9:00

RETURN TIME

Approximately 17:30

INCLUDED

Registered tour guide

Transport in air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance to Harold Porter Botanical Gardens

NOT INCLUDED

Lunch

Boat trip

Gordon's Bay, Pringle Bay & Betty's Bay

It’s in 1930 that 3 businessmen: Harold Porter, Arthur Youldon and Jack Clarence, decide to buy land on the west coast of False Bay. They divide it in three towns called: Betty’s Bay, Gordon’s Bay and Rooiels, selling parts of it to interested people.

The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens

After a fire in 1940, Harold Porter decided to buy parts of Betty’s Bay. He then created a private nature reserve between the sea and mountains, called “Shangri-la”, which means “paradise”. The park then became “The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens” in tribute of its creator. Nowadays, it’s a 200,5 ha area with 10 ha cultivated. It is still a heaven on earth that you can discover at the whim of the river, lakes or the hiking path.

Drive through Hamilton Russel Wine Estate

The Hamilton Russel Wine Estate is located in the Walker Bay, well-known for two main varieties of wine: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drive across the vineyards of the oldest wine estate in the region, surrounded by majestic mountains to have a view of what the Winelands are in South Africa.

Rotary Drive

Still little-known, this road from Hermanus towards Cape Town will raise you to the top of the mountain range. The panoramic view of Hermanus and Walker Bay is the best you will find. If you are lucky enough and if the sky is clear, you’ll probably catch sight of Pringle Bay. Photography lovers will take everything in!

Fernkloof Nature Reserve

The Fernkloof Nature Reserve is a 1,800 ha area which counts about 1,400 species of flowers, nearly as much as Ireland set against an ocean background. You will wander at leisure among the typical South African vegetation, Fynbos, and the national flower of South Africa, the King Protea.

Hermanus

The height is Hermanus. This former fisherman town is a chic and alive tourist attraction, one of the best spots in the world to see Southern Right Whales. They leave their main home in Antarctic to reach the South African coasts, give birth to their calves and to marvel us. Rather playfully, the whales like to flail out their caudal fin to catch the wind on the surface of the water. This behavior is called sailing.
During peak times, you can see these impressive animals by the hundreds. If you want to see them closer, cruises will bring you on the sea for an unforgettable moment and amazing memories.

Elgin

The valley is known as “the place where apples are coming” in South Africa and the city of Grabouw is the midpoint of this market. Around you, plants and fruit trees stretch as far as the eye can see. For people fond of food, it is the perfect place to taste South African products like fruits, wine or even cider.

Sir Lowry's Pass

After this pass, you will no longer be in the Overberg Region. At 920 metres in altitude, it offers a sight of the vastness of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Only Baboons playing nearby will turn you away from this inspiring scenery.

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Tour Reviews

5.00 based on 1 review

Athini

28th December 2016

Hermanus has been recognized by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) as one of the 12 best whale watching destinations in the world. The best time to enjoy whale watching in Hermanus is between July and November either from land, by boat or from the air via a scenic flight. The whale viewing during the months of July and August vary from year to year with regards to how many whales are present in Walker Bay and along the coast; however you are almost guaranteed of seeing whales in September, October and November.

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