The best time for whale watching is during spring and early summer, generally from June to November, when Southern Right Whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Cape Coast.

Whale sightings are very common during whale season, especially in Walker Bay, Hermanus, which is one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations in the world.
However, as these are wild animals, sightings can never be 100% guaranteed.

This tour primarily includes land-based whale watching, with opportunities to spot whales from scenic viewpoints and along the Hermanus cliff path.
Guests can also choose to join an optional whale-watching boat trip at an additional cost

Yes, we strongly recommend booking the boat trip in advance, especially during peak whale season, as spaces can fill up quickly.

No, the boat-based whale-watching experience is optional and not included in the standard tour price.

This is generally a full-day tour departing from Cape Town in the morning and returning later in the afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and seasonal conditions.

The tour usually departs from Cape Town, with pick-up and drop-off available from selected accommodation or agreed meeting points, depending on your booking arrangements.

This tour includes a beautiful coastal drive through:

• Gordon’s Bay
• Clarence Drive
• Kogel Bay
• Pringle Bay
• Betty’s Bay
• Rooi Els
• Fernkloof Nature Reserve
• Elgin
• Sir Lowry’s Pass

Yes, guests usually have time to enjoy Hermanus, walk along the famous cliff path, take photos, browse local shops, or relax at one of the cafés or restaurants.

Yes, this tour is generally family-friendly and suitable for children. It’s a wonderful nature-based experience for all ages.

Absolutely. Much of the tour is scenic driving with optional walking stops. Guests can participate at their own comfort level.

The amount of walking is light to moderate and depends on your preference.
You can choose to enjoy short scenic stops or take a longer walk along the Hermanus cliff path.

We recommend bringing:

• A warm jacket or windbreaker
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen
• A hat
• Sunglasses
• A camera or phone
• Some cash or card for optional meals, souvenirs, or boat tickets

Weather along the coast can change quickly, so we recommend wearing comfortable layered clothing. Even on sunny days, it can be cool and breezy near the ocean.

Meals are not included. There will generally be opportunities to purchase food and refreshments during the day.

Yes, absolutely! This tour offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, especially from the scenic viewpoints and cliff paths around Hermanus.

Yes, Cape Escape Tours offers daily whale-watching excursions during the whale season, subject to availability and weather conditions.

The tour generally still operates in most weather conditions. However, boat trips may be affected by sea conditions and in some cases may be postponed or cancelled for safety reasons.

Hermanus is internationally known for offering some of the best land-based whale watching in the world, thanks to the whales coming exceptionally close to the shoreline in Walker Bay.

Cape Escape Tours offers a scenic, comfortable, and memorable day out, combining:

• Spectacular coastal scenery
• Seasonal whale watching
• Flexible land or boat viewing options
• A professionally guided experience from Cape Town

We’re also proud to have received the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2022, 2023, and 2024, placing us among the top 10% of listings worldwide.