Cape Town: Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching Tour

The Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching Tour offers an exciting opportunity to witness the majestic Southern Right Whales in their natural habitat. Departing from Cape Town, the tour provides a scenic coastal drive and ample time for land-based whale watching in the renowned Hermanus region. Guests can choose to enhance their experience with optional activities such as a boat cruise or wine tasting. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of marine life off South Africa’s stunning coastline.

Good To Know

• The Hermanus Land-Based Whale Watching Tour offers an 8-hour scenic coastal drive and whale watching experience priced at $147.10 per person.
• The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, land-based whale watching in Hermanus, and optional boat-based whale watching for an additional fee.
• The tour operates from June to November, known as the world’s best shore-based whale watching destination, with excellent vantage points for spotting Southern Right Whales.
• The scenic coastal drive features charming seaside towns and vineyards, providing a delightful prelude to the natural wonders of Hermanus.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those prone to seasickness, and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching Tour from Cape Town offers an exciting opportunity for visitors to witness the majestic Southern Right Whales.

Priced from $147.10 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a scenic coastal drive, land-based whale watching in Hermanus, and convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Guests can also opt for an additional boat-based whale watching excursion at an extra fee.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later for this immersive whale watching experience on the renowned shores of Hermanus, often dubbed the world’s best shore-based whale watching destination from June to November.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from the Cape Town City Centre, followed by a scenic coastal drive along the N2 route.

The drive takes you through:

1. Langa (5 minutes, optional)
2. Khayelitsha (5 minutes, optional)
3. Somerset West (10 minutes, optional)
4. Grabouw (10 minutes, optional) and Caledon (10 minutes, optional).

Upon arrival in Hermanus, you’ll have 2 hours for land-based whale watching.

There’s also an optional 2.5-hour boat cruise available for an additional fee.

After the whale watching, the tour returns to the Cape Town City Centre.

Whale Watching Experience

Upon arrival in Hermanus, visitors embark on the renowned shore-based whale watching experience.

The town’s coastal cliffs offer unparalleled vantage points to spot the magnificent Southern Right Whales that frequent the area from June to November. Guests can observe the whales breaching, spy-hopping, and showing off their calves from the shore.

An optional boat-based tour provides a closer encounter, allowing visitors to get within safe viewing distance of the gentle giants.

Whether on land or sea, the whale watching experience in Hermanus is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

Scenic Coastal Drive

As the tour departs from Cape Town, passengers embark on a scenic coastal drive along the N2 route.

They’ll pass through a variety of charming seaside towns and vineyards, including:

1. Langa – a quick 5-minute stop.
2. Khayelitsha – another 5-minute optional visit.
3. Somerset West – a 10-minute stop.
4. Grabouw, Caledon – each with 10-minute optional visits.

The drive offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and rolling hills, setting the stage for the main event – the whale watching experience in Hermanus.

This scenic journey is a delightful prelude to the natural wonders that await.

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Optional Experiences

Aside from the land-based whale watching, the tour offers an optional boat-based whale watching experience. For an additional fee, guests can embark on a 2.5-hour boat cruise to view the whales up close. This boat-based option provides a unique perspective and opportunity to see the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Beyond the whale watching, the tour also includes an optional visit to a Diamond Institute, allowing guests to learn about the fascinating process of diamond mining and cutting.

Plus, there’s the chance to participate in a wine tasting tour, exploring the renowned vineyards and sampling the local vintages.

What’s Included and Excluded

The Hermanus whale watching tour includes several key components. The tour includes land-based whale watching, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver/guide.

However, it excludes:

1. Food
2. Gratuity
3. Wine tasting fees
4. Boat-based whale watching fees (optional extra)

While the tour provides a comprehensive land-based whale watching experience, guests should be aware of the additional costs for optional activities and any personal expenses.

Important Considerations

Certain considerations are essential when booking the Hermanus whale watching tour.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those prone to seasickness. Wildlife sightings, though often incredible, aren’t guaranteed.

To maximize the experience, travelers should dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a camera, hat, sunscreen, and water. Smoking is prohibited in the vehicle.

While the tour is suitable for all ages, parents should exercise caution with young children.

On top of that, the tour operates weather-permitting, so it’s wise to have a backup plan in case of inclement conditions.

Keeping these factors in mind will help ensure a safe and memorable whale watching adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Children?

The tour pricing does not mention any discounts for seniors or children. However, the whale watching experience is suitable for all ages, so families with kids may find it an enjoyable outing.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the tour. However, bottled water is provided as part of the tour. Bringing snacks or a packed lunch is permitted, but any alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the vehicle.

Is the Tour Available on Weekends?

The tour is available on weekends. Visitors can book the Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching Tour any day of the week, including weekends, to view the Southern Right Whales from the shore during the peak season from June to November.

How Accessible Is the Whale Watching Area for People With Disabilities?

The whale watching area in Hermanus is generally accessible for people with disabilities, with paved walkways and designated viewing platforms. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if the tour is cancelled due to weather, travelers will receive a full refund regardless of the cancellation timeframe.

The Sum Up

The Cape Town: Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching Tour offers an unforgettable day of nature, coastal scenery, and optional activities. Priced at $147.10 per person, this 8-hour adventure provides travelers with the chance to witness the majestic Southern Right Whales from the shore and explore the surrounding areas through a scenic drive and optional experiences like boat cruises and wine tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here: