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The southernmost tip of Africa
L'Agulhas, Western Cape
Shipwreck, Agulhas National Park
© Agulhas National Park
Did you know?
The southernmost tip of the continent is marked by a simple cairn.
The welcome mat is always out in L'Agulhas, where Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean meet. Forming part of the Overberg region, L'Agulhas is best known as the southernmost tip of Africa as well as the geographic point at which the cold Atlantic and warm Indian oceans meet.
The beautiful windswept and rugged coastal plain also lays claim to the Agulhas National Park, which is home to more than 8 500 species of flowering plants. The coastline supports a rich marine and intertidal life. The park is known for its many breeding sites of rare birds, such as the African black oystercatcher.
Another favourite among the L'Agulhas attractions is a visit to the 150-year-old lighthouse, modelled on the Pharos at Alexandria in Egypt. It has been replaced by a more modern warning light. Today the lighthouse is a museum.
The koppie behind the lighthouse provides a panoramic view of where the 2 oceans meet, ships pass and southern right whales play in spring and early summer. The actual southernmost tip of Africa is 1 km west of the lighthouse.
Natural wonders offer unique outdoor L'Agulhas activities. Just a 2-hour drive from Cape Town, it is the gateway to a varied world. You'll encounter indigenous fynbos, horse and hiking trails, 4x4 coastal safaris, quaint fishing villages, nature reserves, marine birdlife, and whale watching. There is a host of annual festivals linked to the traditional fishing and farming communities of the area.
East of the coastal tip are 'vywers' (fish traps), which were made by inhabitants of the area thousands of years ago. They built dams across shallow gullies so that fish would be stranded in them at low tide. Some of these ancient traps have been maintained through the centuries and are still used today.
There is also a wine boutique in L'Agulhas, which showcases the unique terroir of the area. Renowned wines include the Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Shiraz.
Stone hearths, pottery and shell middens form a valuable historic and cultural legacy left by the Khoikhoi beach nomads. They lived along this coastline for centuries.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Discover Cape Agulhas
Tel: +27 (0)28 424 2584
Email: agulhas@discovercapeagulhas.co.za
How to get here
Just a 2-hour drive from Cape Town, one reaches L'Agulhas on a road that skirts through a series of Cape mountains.
Around the area
Explore the region and visit its majestic towns. Visit Bredasorp with its Shipwreck Museum.
Tours to do
There's so much history to uncover so why not indulge in a historic tour of the Overberg during your stay. Eco-tours are also available on foot, by quad bike or in 4x4 vehicles.
What to pack
For that photograph of yourself at Africa's southernmost tip, you will of course need your camera.
Where to stay
One the loveliest landmarks among the guest houses and holiday homes along the coast is the Arniston Hotel.