Hermanus Whale Watching

Hermanus has long been known as the whale watching capital of the Cape. This is no wonder, as hundreds of Southern Right Whales make a stop off in Hermanus’ Walker Bay each year to breed. You can get a glimpse of these famous Hermanus whales from the land, by boat or for the more adventurous, even by plane! When whales are spotted, you’ll hear the Whale Crier who blows his kelp horn when whales are seen along the central sea route.



Hermanus is only 127kms from Cape Town – so hire a car in South Africa from First Car Rental make your way to this ideal holiday destination!



Hermanus Whales - Some Interesting Facts



Before you head off on a Hermanus whale watching expedition, why not learn a bit more about these graceful ocean giants? We’ve got a few interesting facts about the Southern Right whales that are spotted in Hermanus to get you started:



• Like dolphins, whales communicate by means of sonar, which can be heard for miles both above and below the water. It’s also often thought that when whales breach the water’s surface and slap their tails, that they are communicating or "lobtailing".



• Baby whales are born with a fine sprinkling of hair which through the years mostly disappears.



• Mothers form close relationships with their young, who start suckling from birth until about one year of age.



• Southern Right whales have an estimated lifespan of about 90 – 100 years.



• The Southern Right Whales are filter feeders and get their food through the water which is filtered through the baleen in their mouths.



• The head of the Southern Right is large and covered with wart-like bumps called callosities. The size and position of these callosities are often used to identify individuals.



Plan a Quaint Hermanus Holiday



This welcoming little town provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy. For the nature lovers, there are endless stretches of Blue Flag beaches to walk or the Fernkloof Nature Reserve which offers an array of hiking trails and walking paths. Don’t forget your binoculars or bird book on your Hermanus holiday, as you’re sure to come across some beautiful species during your exploration of this area.



If you’re looking for relaxation, the quaint and homely village is a myriad of coffee shops, craft outlets and boutique stores – go on the search for the perfect cupcake or steaming cup of tea! On Sundays, there is a craft market where you can buy all sorts of delicious home-made goodies as well as admire the talent of the local artists.



Those looking to indulge in some culture can take a trip to the Old Harbour and learn about the history of this once tiny fishing village. This well maintained old building, proclaimed a museum in 1972, retains its original character from back in the early days and gives a sneak preview into the simple fishing lifestyle.



A short drive from Hermanus is Gansbaai, which is famous for its shark cage diving opportunities. If you’re up for adrenalin and adventure, then why not hop in your rented car and head out to come face-to-face with these majestic predators.



Take a look at our top 10 road trips to take in the Western Cape for some more holiday inspiration or book your car hire.



First Car Rental provide affordable car hire to business and leisure travellers throughout South Africa.