It’s Whale season in Cape Town, which means that the Southern Right Whales are migrating into the coastal waters of the Western Cape to calve and nurse their young. This seasonal migration takes place during June- November, every year, with September usually being the peak period.
Here are five of the best whale-watching spots in the Western Cape
Chapman’s Peak Drive
Chapman’s Peak Drive | Pixabay
Chapman’s Peak Drive is an excellent whale-watching spot in Cape Town. It happens to be one of the most spectacular coastal roads on the planet and runs between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. At #Chappies you will be able to experience a mountainside vantage viewing of the passing or calving whales. Keep a look out for Humpback whales, Brydes whales and dolphins too!
Cape Agulhas
The Cape Agulhas | Henri Steenkamp
The Cape Agulhas is known to be the perfect place for spotting the Humpback Whale. The Southern Right Whales are spotted along these shores, but not as frequently as the Humpback. If you’re timing is right, you may even spot some Orce’s on the coast.
De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve
Image: De Hoop Collection
De Hoop is one of South Africa’s most diverse nature reserves, encompassing a mountain range , unspoilt beaches, towering sand dunes and a dreamy vlei. It is arguably the best land-based whale-watching destination in the Cape Whale Coast.
Witsand
Whale Watchers Inn | Image- Inside Guide
Witsand is often referred to as the “Whale nursery of South Africa”, due to the pods of Southern Right Whales who migrate and calve in Saint Sebastian Bay. This town is well-known as a special place for land-based, whale-watching only.
Gansbaai
Image: Inside Guide
The fishing village of Gansbaai is the only South African Town that boasts the Big 2, namely the Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whales. You can enjoy a whale-watching experience on land or join a boat-based and aerial tour.
If you’re planning a trip to the Western Cape this holiday, book a vehicle with cheap car rental Cape Town to accommodate your travel plans around this glorious province.
