Rebecca Mottram Travel Agent

South Africa is a land of breath-taking natural beauty and incredible wildlife, offering unique experiences for travellers seeking the extraordinary. One such adventure is whale watching along the country’s pristine coastline, where you can witness majestic southern right whales in their natural habitat. For those with a taste for more, combining this awe-inspiring experience with a safari on the Eastern Cape creates the ultimate wildlife itinerary.

Whale Watching on the Western Cape

The coastal town of Hermanus, located just outside Cape Town, is renowned as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. Between June and November, the southern right whales migrate to the warmer waters of the Western Cape to calve and nurse their young. From the cliffs of Hermanus, you can witness these gentle giants breach, tail-slap, and frolic in the waters just metres from the shore.

If you prefer to get even closer, boat tours offer the chance to see whales from a unique perspective as they swim alongside dolphins, seals, and seabirds. For a more intimate experience, some operators provide exclusive tours on smaller boats, allowing a quieter and more personal encounter with the marine life.

Best Time to Go: For the most dramatic whale-watching displays, plan your trip between August and October, when sightings are at their peak.

A Safari on the Eastern Cape

Once you’ve marvelled at the ocean’s giants, head east for a thrilling land-based adventure. South Africa’s Eastern Cape is home to a number of exceptional game reserves, offering the perfect complement to your coastal whale-watching experience. Unlike the more famous Kruger National Park, the Eastern Cape offers malaria-free safaris, making it an attractive option for families and those seeking a more laid-back safari experience.

You’ll have the opportunity to see the “Big Five”—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, and a wealth of birdlife. Private game reserves in the region provide exclusive, luxury accommodation and tailor-made safaris, ensuring you get the most out of your wildlife experience.

How to Twin Whale Watching with a Safari

Combining whale watching with a safari is seamless, thanks to South Africa’s well-connected travel routes. After enjoying the marine wildlife, a short flight or scenic drive brings you to the Eastern Cape’s incredible game reserves.

Opting for a guided tour ensures that all the logistics are taken care of, so you can relax and fully enjoy each stage of your trip. Your guide will arrange transfers, game drives, and exclusive experiences, such as private bush dinners or spa treatments between safari adventures.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to enjoy both whale watching and a safari is during South Africa’s winter and spring months, from June to November. This is when whale sightings are most frequent, and the cooler temperatures make for ideal safari conditions. The landscapes are drier, and wildlife gathers around waterholes, offering superb viewing opportunities.

South Africa’s whale-watching and safari combination is the perfect luxury getaway for time-poor travellers looking for an unforgettable experience. From the dramatic ocean cliffs of Hermanus to the vast savannahs of the Eastern Cape, this itinerary showcases the best of South Africa’s wildlife, both on land and at sea. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on creating lifelong memories of these incredible creatures and landscapes.

Get in touch today to get your animal-filled itinerary sorted for 2025!