Main Info
Ever wanted to see whales in their natural environment? This tour is made for you!
Hermanus is known worldwide for the whale watching and is a must-see in South Africa. The sight of whales sometimes coming within a few meters of the coastline it is so fascinating! Boats can bring you on the sea to get closer and make you feel like a part of the Atlantic Ocean wildlife for a memorable moment.
Before arriving at Hermanus, the trip will let you snake along on the beautiful coastal road across the Overberg Region. Two pleasing parks are located in the region: the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens and the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. There’s nothing like a walk on their great stretches, highlighting the South African vegetation and the many different species of birds.
Please note that this tour only runs from July to November due to the fact that the whale sightings are seasonal. However, you can book the route on a private basis at your convenience during the year.
Highlights
- Gordon’s Bay, Pringle Bay & Betty’s Bay
- The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
- Rotary Drive
- Hermanus
- Land-based Whale Watching
- Whale Watching Boat Trip (optional)
- Sir Lowry’s Pass
Departure Time: Between 8:00am and 9:00am
Return Time: Approximately 17:30pm
Included
- Private Transportation
- Registered & Qualified Driver
- Entrance Fee to Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
Excluded
- Meals & Drinks
- Boat Trip
- Options Visits
This tour offers exclusive pick-up/drop off and transportation services to all places. We do not pick up any other clients during the journey.
Gordon’s Bay, Pringle Bay & Betty’s Bay
It’s in 1930 that 3 businessmen: Harold Porter, Arthur Youldon and Jack Clarence, decide to buy land on the west coast of False Bay. They divide it in three towns called : Betty’s Bay, Gordon’s Bay and Rooiels, selling parts of it to interested people.
The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
After a fire in 1940, Harold Porter decided to buy parts of Betty’s Bay. He then created a private nature reserve between the sea and mountains, called “Shangri-la”, which means “paradise”. The park became then “The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens” in tribute to its creator. Nowadays, it’s a 200,5 ha area with 10 ha cultivated. It is still a heaven on earth that you can discover at the whim of the river, lakes or the hiking path.
Rotary Drive
Still little-known, this road from Hermanus towards Cape Town will raise you to the top of the mountain range. The panoramic view of Hermanus and Walker Bay is the best you can find. If you are lucky enough and that the sky is clear, you will probably catch sight of the Pringle Bay. Photography lovers will take everything in!
Hermanus
The height is Hermanus. This former fisherman town is a chic and alive tourist attraction, one of the best spots in the world to see Southern Right Whales. They leave their main home in Antarctic to reach the South African coasts, give birth to their calves and to marvel us. Rather playfully, the whales like to flail out their caudal fin to catch the wind on the surface of the water. This behavior is called sailing.
During peak times, you can see these impressive animals by the hundreds. If you want to see them closer, cruises will bring you on the sea for an unforgettable moment and amazing memories.
Elgin
The valley is known as “the place where apples are coming” in South Africa and the city of Grabow is the midpoint of this market. Around you, plants and fruit trees stretch as far as the eye can see. For people fond of food, it is the perfect place to taste South African products like fruits, wine or even cider.
Sir Lowry’s Pass
After this pass, you will no longer be in the Overberg Region. At 920 meters in altitude, it offers a sight of the vastness of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Only Baboons playing nearby will turn you away from this inspiring scenery.
