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Snap the Western Cape
Photographic tours of the Western Cape
The scenic Western Cape, the ideal place for a photographic safari.
© Andrew Bierne
Did you know?
Table Mountain, probably the most photographed landmark in South Africa, is now one of the New7Wonders of Nature.Regardless what time of year it is, there is something beautiful to photograph in the Western Cape. During the summer months there is decent daylight from around 7am to 8.30pm, as well as a natural energy that will inspire you to get out and capture the beauty around you.
While the winter months (May to September) can be a little wet and don’t offer as much daylight, this is the best time for photographing marine wildlife such as whales and sharks. Hermanus, approximately 90 minutes drive from Cape Town, is known to have the best land-based whale watching in the world and you can go out on boats to get a better shot of these gentle giants.
James Gradwell is just one of the well-known photographic tour operators in the Western Cape. He’s energetic, passionate and talented. He grew up in the bush and developed an excellent eye for outdoor photographic opportunities. On his tours, he will share his secrets with you and answer any technical and creative questions you have.
Some of the tours Gradwell offers include: hiking Table Mountain and Lion’s Head; various township and winelands tours, trips to Robben Island, and tours to natural landmarks such as Cape Point.
If you’re into gadgets, then you will likely be impressed by the offerings of Shaheed Ebrahim of Escape to the Cape, who won the 2012 Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year award. His vehicles are equipped to charge cameras and laptops, while also offering various plug-ins for your camera, so that you can get excellent exterior shots while on the road.
The people of the Western Cape are generally very welcoming to those wishing to photograph them, so you can get some great portrait shots to go with your landscapes.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Cape Town Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)21 487 6800
Email: info@capetown.travel
How to get here
Fly into Cape Town International Airport and either rent a car or take a cab to the city centre. Most photographic tour operators will collect you from your hotel for your tour.
What will it cost
Photographic tours in the Western Cape cost between R900 and R2 500 per person, per day, depending on your transport requirements and how many hours you wish to be out for.
What to pack
The more lenses you bring the more opportunities you create for yourself. It's worth the luggage space.