Hermanus - The Worlds Whale Viewing Capital

Hermanus can be found along the shores of Walker Bay near the Southern most tip of Africa. Magnificent mountains tower over the town, one of the favourite breeding grounds of the Southern Right Whale. Nature lovers from all over the world visit Hermanus to view these magnificent creatures in what is considered to be the best land based whale watching destination in the world.

Famous for its champagne air, long stretches of beach, mild climate, rich floral kingdom and friendly environment, Hermanus is within easy reach of Cape Town International Airport. Hermanus is often described as the Riviera of the South and is a favourite weekend destination for the residents of Cape Town, on weekends and holidays the town is a hive of activity.

Whale Viewing

Every year around July, locals eagerly await the arrival of special guests of honour, the Southern Right Whales. These visitors are an endless source of delight as they frolic in Walker Bay, in easy view of the cliff paths. They favour the relatively shallow waters of the bay for breeding and mating.

During the summer months the white sandy beaches are filled with holiday makers enjoying the sunny weather and excellent swimming in the sea. Hermanus is the ideal over-wintering resort for visitors who wish to escape the cold Northern Hemisphere.

White Shark Diving

Not far from Hermanus is the little town of Gansbaai, the centre of the white shark cage diving industry in South Africa. A number of cage diving outfits operate in the town, Hermanus is an ideal base for visitors who wish to experience these magnificent predators.  [More Info].

Accommodation

The area has a large variety of holiday accommodation options ranging from beachfront self catering homes, hotels to, b&b, guest houses and backpacker lodges.

For details we recommend the websites listed (see lower down on this page).

Some of the attractions are:

• Whale watching
• Beaches
• Fernkloof Wild Flower Reserve
• Craft markets
• Museums
• Art galleries
• Golf courses

Useful Telephone numbers:

Hermanus Tourism Board
Tel: +27(28) 312 2629
Fax: +27(28) 313 0305

Useful Websites:

Hermanus Tourism: www.hermanus.co.za