Whale Watching Day Trip Hermanus from Cape Town
Active
4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape Cape Town for a full-day scenic coastal adventure to Hermanus, one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations in the world. From June to November, Southern Right Whales migrate to the sheltered bays around Hermanus to mate and calve, offering incredible viewing opportunities just meters from the shore. Whether you're exploring from the cliffs or taking an optional boat cruise, this trip is a must for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Highlights
Full-day whale watching tour from Cape Town
Visit Hermanus, South Africa’s whale-watching capital
Best viewing season: June to November (Southern Right Whales)
Option to add a 2-hour whale watching boat cruise
Scenic drive via Clarence Drive – one of the world’s most beautiful coastal roads
Time to explore Hermanus town, cliff path, and shops
Optional stop at local wine estate or farmstall en route
Available options
Whale Watching Day Trip Hermanus from Cape Town
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Entrance fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Pickup & Tour Start Description
Your friendly, professional guide will collect you directly from your Cape Town accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle (such as a Mercedes Vito, Toyota Quantum, or similar). Please be ready in your hotel lobby or outside your accommodation 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time.
Relax and enjoy the ride as your guide shares stories and insight about the region, local culture, and nature along the way.
Arrive in Hermanus, where you'll have time to walk the famous cliff path, browse coastal art galleries, and spot whales breaching close to shore. During whale season, sightings from land are frequent and thrilling.
Whale Watching Boat Cruise
You will take a 2-hour boat cruise with a licensed marine operator. Guides share insights on whale behavior and conservation efforts.
Lunch & Exploration
Enjoy lunch at a seafront restaurant (own account), then take time to explore the charming town or enjoy more whale watching.
2
Afternoon Return via Overberg or Wine Valley
On your return, you may stop at a local wine estate in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley or a charming farm stall for local treats. Arrive back in Cape Town by early evening.
What's not included
Optional Lunch In Hermanus
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
