Hermanus, South Africa
Southern right and humpback whales · June – November
Species in this destination
These are the species seen most often. Other whales also appear in this destination, less regularly.
When to go
Sighting probability
The longer the bar, the likelier you are to see whales that month. The dark bar marks the peak of the season.
In short: whale season in Hermanus runs from June to November, and September is the best month, with the most southern right whales in Walker Bay.
Hermanus, on South Africa's Overberg coast, is considered one of the world's best places for land-based whale watching: its cliffs drop straight into Walker Bay, so you can see southern right whales a few metres from the shore without getting on a boat.
Between June and November, hundreds of southern right whales come into the bay to mate and calve; September is usually the busiest month, coinciding with the Hermanus Whale Festival. Humpback whales can also be seen in the area, especially towards the end of the season.
Watching ethics
Hermanus has a traditional “whale crier” who announces around town where whales have been seen that day, no boat needed. Licensed boats operate from Hermanus, Gansbaai and Kleinbaai under official permits; avoid any unlicensed operator, and remember that much of the experience here is free, from the cliff path.
Practical tips
- Hermanus's cliff path is free and often as good as a boat trip. Make the most of it before booking a boat.
- Book boat trips ahead in September–October, the peak of the season.
- Follow the “whale crier” or the local webcams to find out where whales have been seen that day before planning your route.
- Bring warm clothing: the wind on the cliffs and on the boat can be strong even when it is sunny.
- A 100-300mm zoom is usually enough; many whales are seen close to the shore.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see whales in Hermanus?
September, the month with the most whales, which coincides with the Hermanus Whale Festival. The season runs from June to November.
Can you see whales from land in Hermanus?
Yes, it is one of the best places in the world for it: the cliffs drop straight into Walker Bay and southern right whales come within a few metres of the shore. The cliff path is free and often as good as a boat trip.
Which whales can you see in Hermanus?
Mainly southern right whales, which come into the bay to mate and calve. Humpback whales can also be seen, especially towards the end of the season.
What is the Hermanus whale crier?
A traditional town crier who announces where whales have been seen that day. Together with local webcams, it helps you decide where to go before planning your route.
Do I need to book boat trips in Hermanus?
In September and October, yes, well ahead. Always choose officially licensed boats, which operate from Hermanus, Gansbaai and Kleinbaai.
Field photography
Hermanus, through our lens.
Photographs by José A. Curto, Blowline's co-founder, taken at this destination.
Subscriber information
Everything you need to plan the perfect outing.
- Month-by-month sighting probability, with notes on each period
- Recommended departure points and which traveler profile fits each one
- Verified operators, with information on each one
- Combinable activities in the area
- Full guide downloadable as a PDF, ready to take on your phone
Would you like to see whales in Hermanus?
Tell us when and how you'd like to go, and we'll put you in touch with the operators and agencies we recommend.