Whale Watching in South Africa: A Guide to Hermanus
Whale watching in South Africa is celebrated for its stunning sightings, especially in the coastal town of Hermanus in the Western Cape. From June to November, Southern Right Whales (Eubalaena australis) travel to the southern coast to mate and give birth, making Hermanus an ideal spot for witnessing these magnificent beings.
Southern Right Whale Migration
In the Austral summer (December to May), Southern Right Whales feast on krill in the chilly polar areas. Come winter (June to November), they move to the shallow coastal waters of Southern Africa, South America, and Australia. Hermanus becomes a hub during this prime whale-watching period.
In Hermanus, male whales are the first to arrive in June, followed closely by females. Pregnant females are the last to come and go, departing with their calves once the young are strong enough to head back to Antarctic waters.
Whale Watching in Hermanus
Hermanus provides some of the finest land-based whale watching globally. Guests can view whales from the cliffs adjacent to Walker Bay or take a boat tour to gain insights into whale behavior. Typical sights include spy-hopping, lobtailing, and breaching. Occasionally, fortunate onlookers may see a whale giving birth.
Other Wildlife
In addition to Southern Right Whales, Hermanus hosts Humpback and Bryde’s whales, dolphins, Cape Fur seals, and a range of marine avifauna. Orcas and Clawless Cape otters are also spotted from time to time.
Identifying Whale Species
Southern Right Whales can be recognized by the callosities on their backs, a V-shaped blow, and the absence of a dorsal fin. Humpback Whales feature a small dorsal fin and elongated pectoral fins.
White Whales
Roughly 5% of Southern Right Whales are born white, a phenomenon referred to as grey morphism, not albinism. These whales darken as they age.
Whale Watching Tours
Hermanus provides both land-based and boat-based whale-watching tours. Land-based tours allow for whale observation from various coastal vantage points, while boat tours facilitate closer encounters. It is recommended to book tours ahead of time due to their popularity.
Day Trips from Cape Town
For those traveling to Cape Town, day trips to Hermanus are offered, frequently combining whale watching, wine tasting, and visits to penguin colonies.
Conclusion
Hermanus is an essential destination for whale lovers exploring South Africa. With its stunning views and rich marine life, it guarantees an unforgettable adventure.