The best land-based whale watching in the world
From around June to early December, southern right whales migrate to Walker Bay to calve — and Hermanus, perched on the cliffs above the bay, is widely considered the best land-based whale watching spot on the planet. On a quiet morning, you can stand on the cliff path and watch mothers and calves breach and lobtail just metres offshore.
Cheryl has been running this day trip since 2003 — she'll time the drive to peak whale activity, walk the best stretches of the cliff path with you, and book a boat-based whale tour if you'd like to get closer.
What you'll see
- Southern right whales in Walker Bay (peak Sep–Nov, present roughly Jun–early Dec).
- The Hermanus cliff path — 12 km of coastal walking with whales below.
- The Whale Crier — the world's only one, who blows a kelp horn to signal whale sightings.
- Optional boat-based whale tour for a closer encounter (permit operators only).
- Old Harbour & Hermanus village — historic fishing harbour, cafés and craft.
- Optional Hemel-en-Aarde wineries — pinot noir country on the way back.
Perfect for UK visitors travelling in season
If your Cape Town holiday from the UK falls anywhere between September and November, this is the day to plan for. Cheryl handles the drive (about 90 minutes each way), the cliff-path navigation, and the boat booking if you want one — you focus on the whales.
Tailor-made, always private
Make it a half-day cliff-path visit, a full day with lunch in the village and afternoon wineries, or pair it with the West Coast or Winelands. Tell Cheryl what suits you.
