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On the Western Cape, Hermanus and Gansbaai are the 2 main areas for whale watching, either boat-based or land-based.
Hermanus
Only 120 km from Cape Town, the pretty little town of Hermanus is one of the world's 12 best whale viewing sites. It is a popular weekend and holiday destination for South Africans, as well as for overseas visitors.
The local 'Whale Crier' walks the streets during the whaling season, informing visitors when the whales are present with a blast on his kelp horn. At the Old Harbour Museum, an underwater microphone transmits the whale songs and calls into the museum hall for everyone to hear.
Good whale watching vantage points are from the Old Harbour wall, or from the 12 km cliff path. Another great spot to watch the whales is at Bientang's Cave restaurant, where from your table you can watch the whales frolic not more than 100m away in the Old Harbour.
The town also has several fine beaches and restaurants, and an excellent selection of accommodation establishment if you do not fancy the very early start needed to drive the 90 minutes from Cape Town to get to the early morning whale watching boat on time!
Our recommended operator from Hermanus is Southern Right Charterswhose trips go out into Walker Bay. As well as spotting whales, you may also encounter dolphins, seals, penguins and marine birds.
Gansbaai
Gansbaai (meaning Goose Bay) is a quaint traditional fishing village just 50 km along the coast from Hermanus. The awesome De Kelders cliffs offer excellent land viewing opportunities along the coast during the whale watching season.
The boat-based whale watching trips from here, with our recommended operator, Dyer Island Cruises, also visit Dyer Island, which is home to a colony of African or jackass penguins, and Geyser Rock, home to an incredible 50,000 Cape fur seals.
But be warned - the seals are great fun to watch - but the smell is not so fantastic!
Some trips also takes in Shark Alley, where Great White sharks can be seen gliding through the water. For a great adrenalin rush, try experiencing the Great White shark close up, from the protection of a solid cage submerged in the water, which can also be arranged with Dyer Island Cruises.
Special Offers
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve: Stay 3 nights for the price of 2Valid for travel from 15 January 2012 to 31 March 2012
view all Hermanus special offers
Suggested Holiday Itinerary
12 day itinerary.
Guide price valid for travel in July 2012
*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.
Prices exclude international flights - ask us if you would like to include these.
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Mosaic Farm, Stanford
Guest House / B&B
Lagoon Lodge provides ultimate privacy and service for only 10 guests. Each chalet has luxurious beds under netting, a large romantic tub, private outdoor shower and a wooden deck with exquisite mountain and lagoon views.
Hermanus Beach Villa, Hermanus
Guest House / B&B
The stunning Hermanus Beach Villa is conveniently situated on the famous Blue Flag Voelklip (bird rock) Beach, and you are only a few barefoot steps across the lovely white sand away from the Atlantic ocean. There are 4 suites, 3 of which have sweeping views of the ocean, and from May to November it is possible to watch and listen to the Southern Right Whales blow and breach, either from the comfort of your bed, or from the large main lounge while enjoying a hearty breakfast.
Abalone Guest Lodge, Hermanus
Guest House / B&B
Abalone Guest Lodge is an unusually artistic and unique guesthouse situated midway between the town centre and the beautiful white beaches of Hermanus. Each en-suite bedroom is individually appointed with original South African art and decor, and has a TV, telephone, and tea / coffee making facilities.
Saxon Lodge, Gansbaai
Lodge / Inn
Saxon Lodge offers exclusivity to residing guests in individually designed, private suites (choice of suites, to suit individual requirements). The restaurant is renowned for excellent cuisine and the well stocked resident's pub, with a yachting theme is a winner with guests! Overlooking a traditional fishing harbour with stunning views across Walker Bay to Hermanus and the Cape Point just 2 hours from Cape Town, Saxon Lodge is a perfect location for relaxation and exploring the Overberg region.
Harbour House Hotel, Hermanus
Hotel
The Harbour House Hotel in Hermanus enjoys the most prominent of positions in the heart of the old harbour area, flanked by the seaside and the bustling centre of this holiday town. The 18 spacious rooms, with sophisticated modern decor, feature a kitchenette and lounge leading towards the balcony.
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