A seaside town whose 12 km Cliff Path gives land-based views of southern right whales between June and November. A Whale Crier blows a kelp horn when whales are in Walker Bay, and the Old Harbour has a small museum. Tourist information: +27 28 312 2629.
Hermanus is a seaside town on Walker Bay in the Overstrand Municipality, about 120 km south-east of Cape Town, and is one of the world's best places to watch southern right whales from land. The drive takes 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes each way on the N2 over Sir Lowry's Pass, then the R43 from Grabouw. Because of the distance, an early start of about 07:30 makes the day comfortable.
The main attraction is the 12 km Cliff Path, which follows the rocky shoreline and brings whales within metres of the shore between June and November, with September and October as the peak. A Whale Crier blows a kelp horn through town to announce sightings in Walker Bay. The Old Harbour has a small museum with fishing boats and local history, and boat-based whale-watching trips cost about R1,000 to R1,700 per person. Outside the whale season the Cliff Path, beaches, the town's galleries and the nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve remain attractive. Tourist information can be reached on +27 28 312 2629.
A suggested day starts with the drive and coffee at the Old Harbour around 10:00, followed by a walk along the Cliff Path from the harbour towards Grotto Beach, with stops at lookout points. Lunch in the town centre or on the waterfront costs roughly R200 to R400 per person. In the afternoon, visitors can book a boat trip, explore the galleries or browse the shops on Marine Drive before departing around 16:00 to be back in Cape Town before dark.
Whales are present from June to November, but the area is pleasant year-round. Weekend and school holiday traffic can be heavy, especially in the whale season, so weekday visits are calmer. Parking is available near the Old Harbour and along the Cliff Path. Food stops on the way include the farm stalls and cafes around Grabouw and Sir Lowry's Pass.
| Distance | About 120 km south-east of Cape Town |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes each way by car |
| Getting there | Car: N2 and R43 via Sir Lowry's Pass and Grabouw (1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes) |
| Cost | Cliff path free; whale-watching boat trips R1,000-R1,700 (approx $61-$103) per person; lunch R200-R400 (approx $12-$24) |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Old Harbour, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa |
How to get there
- Hire car: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, R350-R600 (approx $21-$36) per day plus fuel
- Guided whale-watching day tour from Cape Town: R1,300-R2,200 (approx $79-$133) per person
- Uber or Bolt: about 1 hour 45 minutes, R1,100-R1,600 (approx $67-$97) one way (not always available)
- Intercape and other coaches stop at Hermanus on some Garden Route services; check intercape.co.za
Location
Old Harbour, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa
-34.4187, 19.2345 View on map
Highlights
- Watch southern right whales from the Cliff Path between June and November
- Listen for the Whale Crier's kelp horn announcing sightings in Walker Bay
- Visit the Old Harbour museum and its historic fishing boats
- Take a boat-based whale-watching trip from the harbour
Tips for visiting
- Visit in September or October for the highest whale numbers, and book boat trips in advance.
- Start early to beat weekend and holiday traffic on the R43.
- Pack warm layers; the Cliff Path can be windy even on sunny days.
- Park near the Old Harbour and walk the Cliff Path in sections.
- Stop at farm stalls around Grabouw for refreshments on the way.
When to visit
June to November for whales, peaking in September and October. Arrive by mid-morning on a weekday for easier parking and viewing.
Accessibility
Sections of the Cliff Path near the Old Harbour and the town centre are paved and suitable for many wheelchair users, while other parts are uneven. Boat trips involve steps and boarding by ramp or ladder, so confirm with operators.
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Frequently asked questions
When can whales be seen in Hermanus?
Southern right whales are present from June to November, with the peak in September and October. The Cliff Path gives free land-based viewing.
How far is Hermanus from Cape Town?
About 120 km, or 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes each way by car via the N2 and R43.
How much does a whale-watching boat trip cost?
Boat trips cost roughly R1,000 to R1,700 per person. The Cliff Path itself is free.
Is a day trip to Hermanus practical without a car?
Guided day tours from Cape Town cost about R1,300 to R2,200 per person. Rideshare is possible but not always available for the return.