If you are looking for the Best Places for Whale Watching and Kayaking in SA, this article will answer all your questions. In South Africa, Kayaking can be enjoyed on many places such as rivers, dams, lakes and in the sea. You can also combine this experience by including whale watching. This without a doubt should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Whale Watching Season and What Species to lookout for?
Before we get started on the Best Places for Whale Watching and Kayaking in SA, lets first dive into Whale watching. The best season for you to experience this is during winter which starts in May which goes in until December.
The reason this season is ideal for Whale watching is because it is when the migrating Whales head north through the eastern coast of Southern Africa. They go in search of warmer waters making it the best time for you to catch them prior to them breed over coastal waters of Mozambique and Madagascar.
During this season in South Africa you will get to see a few Whales which include:
- Humpback
- Southern Right
- Brydes
- Minke
- Sperm
- Orca
Best Places for Whale Watching
Hermanus – the whale-watching capital
One of the primary reasons this is one good place to observe Whales is due to their deep waters that rub close to the shore. This means, the whales that are migrating swims to the bay area where you get to witness them from the beach and cliff tops.
False Bay – Cape Town
This is another spot for you to keep an eye on during your travels to South Africa. It got its name long before when sailors and mariners used to confuse this bay with the popularly known Table Bay further along the coast.
Overberg, Southern Cape & De Hoop Nature Reserve
If you are a nature lover, this is the ideal place for you known to be an epic spot for whale watching.
Plettenberg Bay and the Garden Route
This place is swirling estuaries and full of empty beaches and cliffs. If you want to find a less crowded spot, this is the one.
Eastern Cape
This is a beach-filled haven with natural surroundings in the east-coast. And you will encounter some of the most beautiful sunshine hours.
Wild Coast
This is one of South Africa’s most spectacular and rugged regions located further in the north of the Eastern Cape. And if you are prepared to hike or venture on horseback, this is a place to look for.
Kwa Zulu Natal
This coast received the one of the largest numbers of whale watching ad it is one of the most popular sightings.
Best Places for Kayaking in SA
In this article where we talk about some of the Best Places for Whale Watching and Kayaking in SA, we will also highlight some of the best places for Kayaking. According to South Africa Net Kayaking is a sport which is quite easy to learn. If you want an interactive experience you can use a Canoe with two seaters.
If you are looking for an individual experience, you can look for one with just a seat for you. While you engage in Kayaking, you can experience whales, dolphins and seals alongside the coats.
Here are some of the best spots for Kayaking in South Africa which includes:
- Kayak Cape Town (Simon’s Town)
- Kayak Adventures
- Hout Bay
- Kosi Bay Kayaking Adventure
- Joe Bananas Kayak Tours
- Sunset session
- Zambezi Private Classic Long Canoe Safari
- Bain’s Kloof Easy Canyoning – Wellington
- Sedgefield
- Knysna Kayak (Single Kayak)
- Hidden waterfall (Kaaimans Adventures)
- Walker Bay sea Kayaking
- Eastern Cape
- Kayaking Jeffreys Bay
- Kloof, South Africa
- Kowie canoe trail
- Paddle Experience
- Dune: Adventures
- Kayaking On The Atlantic Seaboard
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Simon’s Town
- The Fernery Lodge and Spa
- Untouched Adventures
Conclusion
Now you know the Best Places for Whale Watching and Kayaking in SA and it is time to arrange your travels. South Africa’s coastlines offer exceptional opportunities for whale watching and kayaking, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With prime locations and accessible experiences, visitors can easily spot whales and explore stunning waters.
Whether along rugged coastlines or serene rivers, South Africa’s natural beauty ensures unforgettable encounters with marine life.
Key Points
- South Africa offers top-notch whale-watching and kayaking experiences, combining scenic coastlines with rich marine life.
- Whale-watching season runs from May to December, with peak sightings from June to early December.
- Popular spots for whale-watching include Hermanus, False Bay, and Plettenberg Bay, where whales can be seen close to shore.
- Kayaking is accessible and suitable for beginners, with options to explore rivers, dams, lakes, and coastal waters.
- Top kayaking locations include Simon’s Town, Kosi Bay, Knysna, and Walker Bay, providing diverse landscapes and wildlife encounters.
FAQs
Which month is best for whale watching in South Africa?
The months between June and October are the best. The Hermanus Whale Festival also takes place in late September or early October.
Where is the best place to see whales and dolphins in South Africa?
Hermanus is the Whale watching capital of South Africa and you can also check out the De Hop further east along with the St Sebastian Bay.
Do you need a Licence for kayak in South Africa?
In South Africa, kayaking in Category R restricted waters doesn’t require a license, allowing for rentals to enjoy the activity freely. For a full boating experience, however, either a license or a certified skipper is required.
Can I kayak on my own?
Absolutely you can – but make sure to keep close to shore and wear your life jacket.
