Cape Town , South Africa

Whales & Wine

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About this experience

The whale season is here and it's the ideal opportunity to experience the best land-based Southern Right whale-watching on earth at Hermanus, just over an hour out of Cape Town.

For those wanting to get even closer to these gigantic creatures, three times the weight of an African elephant, can take an exciting boat trip from the harbour. Wine-tasting in the Hemel en Aarde Valley, together with food and wine pairing is optional at no extra charge. Hermanus is renowned for it's pinot noir wines but there are a large variety of wines to choose from. Non-drinkers can opt for a shopping opportunity or a tour of an abalone farm. So this is a very flexible tour?!

Available options

Whales & Wine

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Hotel drop-off (selected hotels only)

Driver/guide

Professional photographer guide

Fuel surcharge

What you'll see

You will be picked up from your hotel between 08h00 - 08h30 by minivan or SUV, depending on the amount of people joining the tour and take a relaxing drive along the N2 highway and over the Sir Lowry's Pass with a stop at an interesting farm stall in the apple growing region of Elgin. Here you can enjoy a nice cup of coffee, pastries, fruit of the region or even some ice-cream. Then it's on to Hermanus, which is famous for its Southern Right whales, which swim all the way from the Antarctic to mate and give birth in the warmer waters of Hermanus and the Indian Ocean a little further Eastwards.

Walker Bay is the area where these wonderful creatures are spotted during the season June - December. After the whale-watching it's off to the Hemel en Aarde (Heaven & Earth) Valley for wine-tasting at two award-winning estates. There are great lunch stops in the valley, which will give you the opportunity to sample some of the finest cuisine the region has to offer.

You'll be dropped off at your hotel around 17h30 - 18h00.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Lunch

Gratuities

Wine-tastings

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessible

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

About Cape Town

Cape Town is a stunning coastal city known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan living, and historical significance.

Top Attractions

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 2-4 hours Moderate (Cableway ticket: R380 return)

V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to experience Cape Town's vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, with varying costs for activities and dining

Robben Island

Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It's a powerful reminder of South Africa's apartheid history.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate (Tour ticket: R500 including ferry)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken or lamb. It's a popular street food dish with Indian roots.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.

Cape Malay Curry

A flavorful curry made with spices, herbs, and often includes meat or vegetables. It's a staple of Cape Malay cuisine and is typically served with rice.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.

Biltong

A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, but with a unique South African flavor. It's a popular snack and can be found in various flavors and cuts.

Snack Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking Paragliding Shark cage diving Surfing Mountain biking Beach lounging Spa treatments Wine tasting

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the summer season, characterized by warm, dry weather and long daylight hours. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor adventures.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Afrikaans
Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cape Town is a generally safe city for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
• Use reputable transport services

Getting there

By air

Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Cape Town Station

By bus

Cape Town Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The MyCiTi Bus system is efficient and affordable, with dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cape Town City Centre Camps Bay Bo-Kaap

Day trips

Stellenbosch

50 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended

Stellenbosch is a charming university town in the heart of the Cape Winelands, known for its historic architecture, world-class wine estates, and vibrant student culture. It's a great place to explore South Africa's rich history and indulge in some of the country's best wines.

Hermanus

120 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended

Hermanus is a coastal town known for its stunning whale watching opportunities, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of South Africa's most breathtaking natural landscapes.

Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope

60 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are two of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich history. It's a great place to explore the country's diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.

Festivals

Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March (annual) Cape Town Carnival • January (annual) Cape Town Fashion Week • September (annual)

Pro tips

Visit Table Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and strong winds
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the upscale Camps Bay
Take a day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample some of South Africa's best wines
Visit the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Take a harbor cruise for stunning views of the city and Table Mountain