Tag: hiking

Activities, Restaurant, Services, Tour

Whale Watching in Hermanus, South Africa: An Experience of a Lifetime

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. 

Activities, relax, Rest, Tour

Oh, what a view from the Helderberg Nature Reserve!

Can you feel the stress of the day just melt away?!

The Helderberg Nature Reserve is a protected area of natural beauty in the Western Cape, South Africa. It is located just outside of the city of Stellenbosch, it is home to a unique and diverse range of plant and animal life. The Reserve has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is one of the most important areas of conservation in the country.

Location

Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, the Reserve covers an area of over 3,000 hectares. The reserve includes a range of habitats – grasslands, fynbos, wetlands, and forests. It is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including rare and endangered species.

There are various hiking trails, catering for all fitness levels. After walking you could enjoy a picnic in the gardens while watching tortoises stroll across the lawn. Birdwatchers and animal lovers, take your binoculars and cameras – you won’t be left empty-handed.

Wildlife

The reserve is home to a variety of animals including Bontebok, Cape Hare, Common Duiker, Porcupine, Genet and Small Grey Mongoose! It supports a substantial population of antelope, including Eland, Grey Rhebuck, and Bontebok. It is also home to predators such as the Leopard, Caracal, and Black-backed Jackal.

Bird lovers

The Helderview Nature Reserve is truly a paradise for birdwatchers and a great place to observe a wide variety of bird life. There are over 400 species of birds, including the endangered Cape Vulture and the critically endangered Black Harrier Hawk.

The reserve is a great destination for bird lovers to observe a wide variety of birds in their natural habitat. The nature reserve is home to a variety of bird species including the African Fish Eagle, the Black Kite, and the Black-bellied Bustard. Each of these species can be seen soaring through the clear skies of Helderview Nature Reserve, while some can be heard singing from the forest below.

It also provides a safe nesting ground for many of these birds, allowing them to breed and thrive in this protected environment. Visitors to the nature reserve can also expect to see plenty of waterfowl, waders, and smaller birds, such as the Cape Robbin Chat, the White-throated Swallow, and the Black-headed Weaver.

Flora

If flora appeals to you, Helderberg Nature Reserve is representative of Mesic Mountain Fynbos on the upper reaches and the Renosterveld on the lower reaches. And as you probably know, Fynbos is indigenous to the Western Cape.

Conservation and research

The Helderberg Nature Reserve was established in 1997 to protect the unique biodiversity of the Helderberg region. It is also an important site for conservation and research. It is home to a number of research projects, which focus on the conservation and management of the local biodiversity. This includes projects to protect rare species, manage fire, and study the impact of climate change. The Reserve is also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the area on foot, by bike, or by car.

Hiking and activities

La Bonne Auberge’s owners, Remco and Tanja, visit the reserve regularly as one of their favourite activities. This is what they have to say about Helderberg Nature Reserve:

“We adore being in the Helderberg Nature Reserve. Several hiking trails also provide a variety of activities for our guests staying at La Bonne Auberge Guest House. We’re just a stone’s throw away in the Helderberg Nature Reserve. It’s perfect for an early morning hike or a late afternoon picnic.  We personally enjoy the peace and quiet of the reserve, as well as the beautiful flora and fauna. The the view of the sea from a little higher up is magnificent!  It is ideal for short or long hikes on a daily basis.  A visit to the Helderberg Nature Reserve is always worthwhile.”

There are several trails and boardwalks that lead visitors through the reserve, allowing them to experience the unique beauty of the area. It provides a safe and healthy environment for wildlife and visitors alike and is a great opportunity to learn more about nature and the environment. The Reserve is also an important part of the local economy, providing jobs for local people and helping to protect the local environment. It is an essential part of the Western Cape’s heritage and an important part of South Africa’s natural beauty.

Photo Credits: Tanja Overman and Friends of Helderberg Nature Reserve | Facebook and Instagram Pages

Contacts

  • 21 van Zyl Street, Somerset West 7130, Western Cape, South Africa
  • +27 (0)78 203 7120
  • [email protected]