Get ready for a blue safari at these whale watching destinations

• Published date: 20 April 2024
• Author: ZamaNdosi Cele
• Publication title: Saturday Star

The exit of summer and the entering of cooler temperatures invite the magnificent ocean animals to our shores, making it the perfect time to get up close and personal with them. Whales migrate to South Africa’s coast from Antarctica to mate and calve on our coastline and often breech, providing a spectacular sight

According to the International Whaling Commission, annual visits from the southern right and humpback whales and the presence of enormous pods of dolphins all year round, provide amazing viewing opportunities from land and sea.

At least 37 species of whales and dolphins can be found in the waters of South Africa.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience this season, here are some of the destinations where you can see the magnificent creatures:

Hermanus, Western Cape

Hermanus is South Africa’s whale-watching capital. A whale festival is held every year in the town and it attracts large numbers of visitors.

The annual Hermanus Whale Festival is at the end of September. It features interactive exhibits educating people about marine life and conservation efforts, as well as live music, food trucks, art and craft stalls and a lively street parade.

During the whale-watching season, a whale crier alerts watchers to the presence of whales by blowing on a kelp horn.

Most guesthouses here face the ocean, their large windows designed to give you the best views possible. You can also learn interesting facts about these annual visitors at Hermanus’s Whale House Museum.

Consider a stay at the Misty Waves Boutique Hotel with breathtaking ocean views. Prices start from R1 785 a night for two.

Cape Town, Western Cape

Cape Town Tourism says that of the whale species seen in the waters around the Cape, southern right whales are the most common; however, you might also get a chance to see humpback whales and Bryde’s whales.

Whale populations in the region have grown and they’re fairly common to spot off the coast of Cape Town.

Travel advisers say False Bay is the best place close to town for whale-watching.

Opt for the higher vantage points along the False Bay coastline such as Cape Point, Boyes Drive between St James and Kalk Bay, and Clarence Drive between Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els.

During the whale-watching season, you might even be lucky enough to spot them close up if you take the train trip from Muizenberg to Simon’s...