The South African coastline is well known for its inhabitants of the Southern Right Whales who frequent our waters during their mating season. View these magnificent marine giants from above as you fly over their breeding spots and observe their gentle cruising or playful nature.
Our day of tracking the Marine Big 5 (Southern Right Whale, Shark, Dolphin, Seal and Penguin) starts with a full immersion into breath-taking coastal landscape as we travel along the R44, keeping an eye on the sea.
Exploring the Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay, home to a breeding colony of seabirds, we go in search of penguins - taking time to enjoy their character-filled antics.
Hike through the lush Harold Porter Botanical Gardens, an estate which lies sandwiched between ocean and mountain and includes marsh, heath, forest, gorge and dunes as well as stretches of fynbos. Learn how to use some plants for medicinal purposes, especially when we reach the Khoi-San Gardens.
Continuing along the coastline, we reach the town of Hermanus, renowned for its seasonal land-based whale-watching (May - Oct). From the cliff path trail, you can appreciate spectacular views over Walker Bay and the mountains and look out for the massive mammals which draw close to shore in season.
The Overberg is the best place in the world to view these 40-60 tons creatures from land and our specialist guides will take you down to the De Kelders rocks and give you a whale watching experience of a lifetime! However, for those who prefer a complete marine experience of the Marine Big 5, which includes the whales, dolphins, African Penguins, Cape Fur Seals and surface viewing of the Great White Shark, we can include a boat-based whale watching trip. Note, this trip takes about 2.5 hours (supplement cost).
This afternoon we venture to small villages, perched on the cliffs above the bay. From an elevated vantage point, you have a birds-eye view of the whales and may possibly even see some calves. Out of whale season, we adapt our touring and explore the fascinating Hemel-en-Aarde valley in more depth, seeking out the fine wines for which the region is well-regarded. We return to Cape Town, via Sir Lowry’s pass, with is glorious mountain vistas.
Summer Itinerary (November-April): out of the main Whale season, the Overberg has so much to offer from one of South Africa’s most impressive coastal drives, to its picturesque mountainous ‘garden’ valleys. Taste some of South Africa’s finest coastal region wine and explore local farm stalls rich in the fresh produce from the area.
Please note that during your morning brief your guide may advise changing the route of your tour to allow for us to beat any pending crowds into certain areas during peak seasons, so that we can spend maximum time exploring outside the vehicle.
