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Western Cape
Attractions
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What you need to know
Wildlife
Weekend Getaway
Coastal Getaways

TThe Cape Whale Route is the perfect outdoor family adventure. On this route you’ll check into charming towns like Betty’s Bay, Kleinmond, Hermanus, Pringle Bay, Stanford and Gansbaai. The route offers some of the best land-based whale watching spots on the planet, but it doesn’t stop there. 

The road trip from Betty’s Bay, along the coast towards the other towns on the Cape Whale Route, is an idyllic experience, with the Atlantic Ocean on the one side and mountainous Fynbos terrain on the other. Cape Fynbos, the smallest of the world’s 6 plant kingdoms, is endemic to this area. Travellers will pass through several quaint villages in between the more established towns. 

Hermanus is the largest town along the Cape Whale Route, boasting excellent accommodation, restaurants and adventure activities. This beautiful little nook has become particularly famous for its whale watching, so the annual Hermanus Whale Festival, the only eco-marine festival in South Africa, is a must do event. 

If you want to get up close and personal with these gentle giants of the sea, there are a number of tour operators specialising in whale-watching boat tours. 

Once you’ve seen some whales, it’s time to step it up a notch with one of the many additional activities on offer, including hiking, sea kayaking, quad biking, parasailing and horse riding. 

If golf is more your thing, there are also several golf courses along the Cape Whale Route. Arabella Country Club is famed for its pristine fairways and luxury infrastructure, while the Hermanus Golf Course has become one of the most popular courses in Africa because it offers 27 holes and a variety of challenges for golfers of all levels. 

Whatever you’re searching for, the Cape Whale Route certainly offers more than just whales. Having said that, the whales are in the name so it’s worth making sure you spot some along your way.  

Did You Know?

Travel  tips  & planning  info 

Who to contact 

Hermanus Tourism Bureau 
Tel: +27 (0)28 312 2629 
Email: hermanustourism2@hermanus.co.za 

How to get here 

The Cape Whale Route starts in Betty’s Bay, a 15-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport. Follow signs from the R44. 

Best time to visit 

The best months of the year for whale-watching and are between June and November. 

Things to do 

Take a whale-watching boat tour with Southern Right Charters, a sea-kayaking journey with Walker Bay Adventures or a zip-sliding tour with Hermanus Forest Adventures. 

What to pack 

For the self-drive route, pack your sunglasses, hat, walking shoes, flip flops, camera, binoculars and a good book. If you are planning on a whale-watching boat trip, you will need something waterproof to put your things in and a water-proof jacket. 

Where to stay  

Hermanus is the largest town on the Cape Whale Route, offering the most accommodation options. Hermanus Backpackers is a great option for travellers on a budget, while Misty Waves offers 34 luxury rooms and some excellent ocean views. 

Related links 

 

 

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