​Cape Whale Coast

The Western Cape of South Africa is one of the best places in the world to see whales. Once a busy whaling town, Hermanus in particular has become renown as a top whale watching centre. Several species use the coastline to give birth to their calves before heading back out to the deep oceans for the rest of the year.

The Southern Right's favour this coast line as a breeding ground because of its sheltered bays with the majestic mammals spending up to five months a year here. They pass their time playing, courting, and nursing their newborn calves. The whales come so close inshore that it is possible to see them from the cliffs as they bask in the relative shallows below. Visitors can get even closer with whale watching excursions that depart regularly from the harbour.

The best time of year is from June to November but the occasional sighting is not uncommon for a month either side. Hermanus town holds a very popular annual Whale Festival in September with concerts, competitions and lots of whale related activities for young and old alike.