Spectacular whale-watching
The Cape Whale Coast is a coastal expanse, incorporating fishing villages, secluded coves, long pristine beaches and valleys which can be found just outside of Cape Town.
Flanked by impressive mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the area is an appealing retreat for nature-lovers, with wine routes, fynbos, birding, golf courses, penguins, mountain biking and hiking trails as well as the main event: whales.
Holidays to the Cape Whale Coast are all about spectacular whale-watching opportunities; imagine watching a Southern right whale breaching and blowing just 20 metres from the coastline of Hermanus; or witnessing a humpback whale calving in Walker Bay. Witness the raw power of these gentle giants as they play, mate, calf and rear their young in the waters along the Cape Whale Coast.
Why not twin your stay with time in Cape Town or – for wildlife enthusiasts – a trip to the Eastern Cape for a safari adventure.
Destination Highlights
Essential Information
- Time Zone GMT +1 hours
- Currency ZAR – South African rand
- Visa Information British citizens needn't obtain a visa for South Africa for stays of up to 90 days. However, strict entrance policies apply for passengers travelling with children under the age of 18.
- Language English is widely spoken
- Flight Time Approx 11 hours; Accessible by road from Cape Town which is service by British Airways who offer a direct daily service from London Heathrow.
- Health Information Some special vaccines are required for travel to certain areas of South Africa. Speak to your GP for the latest medical advice.
Great sample itineraries
Here's a selection of popular itineraries to give you some ideas. But almost anything's possible so call us now and we'll create an amazing holiday just for you.

Cape, Whales and Winelands Tour
One of the most popular and visited areas of South Africa, the Western Cape offers stunning scenery, exquisite cuisine, and tempting wine as well as spectacular wildlife, all just a stones throw from Cape Town. Don't miss the opportunity to...
Couples Holidays

Garden Route and Eastern Cape Safari
Guide Price €2,299 pp
This twelve day self drive gives you the opportunity to explore the city of Cape Town and its surrounds, spot Southern Right Whales in Hermanus (seasonal), drive along the Garden Route and track the Big Five on safari in the...
Self drive holidays

Garden Route Highlights Tour From Cape Town
One of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring stretches of landscape in South Africa, the Garden Route offers majestic mountains, breathtaking beaches, valleys and lakes. Our compact tour departs from Cape Town and will take you along the Western Cape, giving...
Escorted tours

South Africa - Cape Town, Cape Winelands and Eastern Cape Multi Centre
Guide Price €3,579 pp
South Africa really does have it all and undoubtedly this suggestion will allow you to see three of the countries highlights. Start your trip in Cape Town - where there is no better place to unwind. Constantly winning awards year...
Cultural holidays
Types of Cape Whale Coast holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Whale season in Hermanus is usually between June and December. Although some years the Southern Right whale has arrived as early as April, the usual time for them to start arriving is towards the end of May.