The coastal Overberg lures a wealth of whales to its bays from winter to springtime. The excursion focuses on land—and water-based whale watching from a base in Hermanus, which is revered as the finest place in the world to enjoy land-based whale watching.
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From: POAThe price can be reduced by substituting accommodations
What influences prices?Guests are met at any location of their choice in Cape Town, from where the tour goes to Hermanus. It travels through the towns of Rooi Els and Betty's Bay and follows one of the most scenic coastal routes in South Africa. Several stops are made at various vantage points to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Shortly before arrival in Hermanus, we pass the Botrivier Lagoon, an ecologically diverse estuarine system famous for its magnificent landscape and biodiversity.
From June to November, the southern right whale frequents the waters around this coastline. We reach Hermanus in the early afternoon. Lunch is followed by check-in and relaxation. Time is then devoted to hiking along part of the famous cliff path, which offers sublime ocean views, natural vegetation, and the possibility of spotting whales, dolphins, and seals.
In the morning, we visit the Hermanus Whale Museum. Established in 1993, it is the first museum in South Africa dedicated to whales and the local marine environment. It offers an in-depth exploration of the rich marine life found in the region. Several exhibits highlight whale behavior, communication, and migration patterns.
In the mid-afternoon, a whale-watching cruise in Walker Bay is on the agenda. It is responsibly conducted by licensed operators who adhere to strict regulations to minimize the impact on marine life. The cruise is an exceptional way to experience the coastline and view whales, dolphins, penguins, and a rich diversity of bird life. It is between two and three hours in duration.
A morning visit is made to the Hamilton and Russell Vineyard, a stone's throw from Hermanus in the Heaven and Earth Valley. It is one of the most southerly vineyards in South Africa and is one of the closest vineyards to the ocean. This fine wine estate is world-renowned for the excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines it produces. Guests attend a discussion highlighting the process by which wine is made in this region. You can also sip some of the fine wines produced at Hamilton and Russell. Following the visit, we explore the surrounding valley before embarking on the return journey to Cape Town.
We travel via the apple-producing regions surrounding Grabouw and Elgin. The imposing Sir Lowry's is traversed as we cross the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, passing the town of Somerset West before reaching Cape Town.