All Hale the Whale!
The majestic Southern Right Whales draw tourists from far and wide to the picturesque town of Hermanus, South Africa. Located on the Western Cape, Hermanus is famous for its stunning coastline, rich wildlife, and award-winning wine regions. However, whale watching in Hermanus is the highlight of a visit to this charming town. From early June to early December, the shores of Hermanus are packed with these gentle giants that offer tourists an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about whale watching in Hermanus.
Land-based Walking Tours
One of the most popular ways to experience whale watching in Hermanus is through land-based walking tours. Experienced and knowledgeable guides will lead you through hidden coves and inlets to view whales at a close range. The most popular whale-watching sites include Siever’s Point and the Kwaaiwater lookout point. These spots offer breathtaking views of the whales and the vibrant sunset. The town has established a whale crier system to alert visitors of sightings. He ensures that you are kept up-to-date with the whales’ whereabouts. The system involves a whale crier who blows a kelp horn to alert visitors of the presence of whales, signalling a location where the whales can be spotted.
Whale Watching Boat Trips
For a more immersive experience, licensed boat trips is the way to go. These are a fantastic way to get even closer to these majestic creatures. The boat trips are led by experienced guides, who provide you with insights into the whales’ behaviour and offer an exciting and educational experience. Hermanus offers several boat companies that specialize in whale-watching tours, ensuring that you get a chance to witness these giants of the sea in their natural habitat.
Other Attractions in Hermanus
In addition to whale watching, Hermanus offers multiple year-round attractions. The town boasts beautiful, clean beaches where you can indulge in sunbathing and swimming. The region is also rich in flora and fauna, There are a variety of hiking trails and nature reserves where visitors can view local wildlife such as baboons, rock hyrax, and birds. The Hermanus wine region is renowned for its award-winning wines – you can enjoy wine tastings and cellar tours at several vineyards located in the region.
Our review
Whale watching in Hermanus is a fantastic experience that should be on every traveller’s bucket list. Tanja and Remco, the owners of La Bonne Auberge, list whale watching as one of their most unforgettable experiences;
Hermanus prides itself on being the whale capital of the world, and rightly so. We love to see and watch the whales, whilst walking along the cliffs and the footpaths amongst the fynbos. It is always a special and unique experience. The many hikes around Hermanus and the cliff paths are majestic. The town itself and its variety of wonderful restaurants are also always worth a visit. We particularly like Fick’s Pool Restaurant, Dutchies and the Cave Restaurant and Wine Bar.
Don’t miss out!
The Southern Right Whales offer an exhilarating and unforgettable experience whilst they migrate. Their journey starts in Antarctica right to the shallow waters of Walker Bay where they breed and care for their young. Hermanus offers multiple tour options where you can view these gentle giants up close. Plan your trip to Hermanus and experience the magic of these majestic creatures.
