Cape Town Central - On the way to Hermanus and an hour east of Cape Town, you’ll find the Hottentots Holland mountain range, standing at approximately 1000 meters above sea level. These mountains were formed over 100 million years ago due to the collision of tectonic plates. The Cape Fold Belt mountain range offers stunning scenery as our journey winds through Sir Lowry’s Pass, leading us over these dramatic peaks and into the Overberg region of Cape Town.

Elgin - Elgin is South Africa’s largest apple-growing town. Its lush landscapes are a delight to the senses as you drive towards Hermanus.

Houwhoek Pass - Named by Dutch settlers in the early 1800s, the Houwhoek Pass was a challenging route for those escaping British rule in Cape Town. The mountain range offers breathtaking views and glimpses of South Africa’s oldest hotel, the Houwhoek Inn.

Hermanus - Upon arriving at Hermanus New Harbour, guests will receive a 20-minute safety briefing and an overview of what to expect at sea. Marine biologists will provide detailed information about the whales, including why they visit our shores and their common behaviors. Our large boat, which can carry up to 80 people, sails with only 65 to ensure a better experience. Southern right whales, known for their curiosity, often approach the boats, allowing guests a closer view of these massive creatures, some weighing up to 50 tons—the equivalent of 10 fully grown African elephants! Guests are welcome to visit Hermanus town center for shopping or lunch before returning to Cape Town.

Creation - After the boat trip, you can enjoy lunch (at your own expense) at one of the many seaside restaurants or opt for a meal in the Hermanus Winelands, known as Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth), for lunch and/or wine tasting. We recommend Creation Wine Estate. If you prefer a takeaway, your guide can assist with recommendations from informal eateries.

Hermanus - Hermanus is a charming coastal town just an hour and a half east of Cape Town. Famous for its seafood restaurants and the warm breeding waters of the Southern right whale, Hermanus offers intriguing coastal walking trails where whales can be spotted from land. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a restaurant of their choice or do some shopping before heading back to Cape Town via the scenic Whale Coast Route.

Stony Point Penguin Colony - On the return journey to Cape Town along Route 44, also known as the Whale Coast Route, we will visit a large penguin colony in Betty’s Bay. Stony Point is one of only two mainland penguin colonies in South Africa, the other being Boulders Beach near the Cape of Good Hope. Stony Point is often quieter and less crowded than the well-known Boulders Beach, making it a great spot to visit.

Kleinmond - Our return journey to Cape Town will continue along the coast, passing through interesting towns like Kleinmond, Pringle Bay, Rooi Els, and Gordon’s Bay, which were established as whaling towns before whaling was banned in the 1930s. Guests will be dropped off at their desired location in Cape Town, concluding our eventful day.