Written by Zeldi Smulders

Our world has some truly amazing wonders to see, but many people have yet to experience one particularly marvellous sight: watching whales in their natural habitat, the ocean.

It is said that the giants of the waters are wondrous to behold, and South Africa is an ideal destination to do just that, specifically in the Western Cape. For those who can’t help but seek out and admire the magnificent whales of the world, nothing beats that breathtaking moment when you see a pod of whales breach the water. Read on to find the best places to spot whales in the Western Cape and add whale watching to your must-experience list.

Hermanus

Arguably the best place in South Africa for whale watching, the seaside village of Hermanus in the Western Cape’s Overberg region is only an hour-and-a-half drive from Cape Town. Every year, people gather in the town to celebrate the height of the whale season with the annual Whale Festival that takes place at the end of September. Southern right whales migrate to these waters between June and November, joining Bryde’s whales and humpback whales. As per tradition, the Whale Crier sounds like a kelp horn to announce whale sightings. Watching a pod of southern right whales breach the water is a highlight in Hermanus. Southern Right Charters and Neptune's Divers & Cruises offer whale-watching activities to get you close to these magnificent creatures.

Added bonus of visiting Hermanus:

A multitude of activities in Hermanus and the surroundings will keep you busy and inspired. Visit various wine farms, restaurants, delis, and stalls throughout the scenic Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, or enjoy the many beaches and hiking spots found in the area.

De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve

Known for being a whale nursery, De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve is an important breeding area for the southern right whale. Around 120 whales return to these waters annually to mate and calve. Visitors to the reserve stand a chance to see calves in the waters after the breeding season. There is also the opportunity to hike the 5-day Whale Trail that extends 55 km along the coast, with the extraordinary possibility of viewing whales popping their heads out of the water along the way. Pro tip: the high dunes of Koppie Alleen offer a sublime vantage point for whale watching.

Added bonus of visiting De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve:

Visitors to this area can also explore Cape Agulhas after a relatively short drive and make a stop at the town, L'Agulhas. This is where you will find the southernmost point of the African continent and the place where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. Whale watching is of course part of the experience in this area, and humpback whales can be spotted here as well as southern right whales, although the latter is not as frequently seen as the former.

Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay is considered the beach capital of the Garden Route, and with its endless ocean thrills, it’s a must-visit destination. The whale watching season peaks in September but runs from July to October, allowing plenty of opportunities to realise whale watching dreams. The town is also an ideal place to look out for dolphins, spot fur seals, and encounter other sea life while exploring the Indian Ocean on a guided marine tour. 

Added bonus of visiting Plettenberg Bay:

Plettenberg Bay forms part of the Garden Route, a 300 km stretch of sandy beaches, evergreen forests, scenic mountain passes, and as many activities as your heart can dream of. Visitors will find themselves in the ideal place to discover the biodiversity of South Africa.

The Western Cape’s Whale Route

South Africa’s Whale Route in the Western Cape is a daydream-worthy journey that’ll take you along the False Bay coastline, where you will travel between quaint seaside towns like Betty’s Bay, Kleinmond, Pringle Bay, Stanford, and Gansbaai. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean on the one side and fynbos-filled mountains on the other, visitors can expect awe-inspiring views aplenty.

Time to Visit the Whales

Whale watching in South Africa is encapsulated in memorable experiences gained from visiting unique places with exciting offerings that will make your trip (more than) worthwhile. With these trips, you’ll be exploring in no time:

The Western Cape’s Beauty: Scenic Whale and Wine Routes 

Experience the Western Cape’s most alluring wonders during this scenic getaway. The first half of the journey will take you inland towards lush vineyards and rolling mountainscapes, while the second part will lead you coastwards for a breathtaking end to your meander.

South Africa's Budget-friendly Thrills, Hills and Whales 

Starting with the dazzling city of Cape Town, the perfect balance of ocean, mountain, and exploration will set the tone for the rest of the trip. From impeccable restaurants and wine farms in Franschhoek to the renowned whale-watching town of Hermanus, this trip will not disappoint.

Garden Route Glamping: 15 Days of Wine, Wave and Whale Eco-Adventures 

Get lost in South Africa’s awe-inspiring nature with scenery ranging from mountains to forests to oceans. Overnight at comfortable stays while travelling from the Cape to the Garden Route to spot whales, hike hills, surf waves, and explore vineyards!

Longing to sing a song with the whales? Book a trip with Viatu today.