Escape to South Africa’s Whale Coast with a journey that blends adventure, marine wonders, and coastal charm. Begin in Hermanus, renowned worldwide as the best land-based whale-watching destination. Here, dramatic ocean cliffs, fresh sea breezes, and charming coastal walks set the tone for an unforgettable stay. The highlight is a Whale & Big-5 Marine Cruise, where you may encounter Southern Right Whales breaching close to the boat, playful dolphins riding the bow, Cape fur seals basking, and even the elusive great white shark. Between marine encounters, Hermanus offers boutique shops, art galleries, and world-class dining, while nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley tempts with rolling vineyards and acclaimed wine estates. Nature lovers can explore the Fernkloof Reserve, with hiking trails boasting sweeping sea views. As your trip concludes, you’ll carry home memories of spectacular seascapes, world-class wildlife encounters, and the serene beauty of South Africa’s iconic Whale Coast.
Giants Of The Sea
ZAR 16,800
PER PERSON SHARING
ZAR 4,950
COMPULSORY SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
What's Included?
- Marine Big 5 Experience Boat Trip
- Meals as outlined in the tour itinerary
- Accommodation
- Qualified Guides
- Transport as specified in the itinerary
- Included highlights as per the itinerary
Overview
Our Premium Journeys are designed for travelers who want comfort, character, and connection woven seamlessly into their African adventure. Staying in carefully selected 3–5 star lodges and boutique camps, you’ll enjoy en-suite rooms, hearty meals, and welcoming hospitality at the end of each day. With shorter travel days, more time is spent where it matters most—immersed in the landscapes, wildlife, and culture that make each destination unforgettable. Whether it’s a sunset boat cruise on a quiet river, a glass of wine by the fire, or waking up to birdsong in the bush, our itineraries are crafted to maximize unhurried, meaningful moments. Travel in smaller groups for a more personal experience, with expert guides who bring every story and sight to life. Premium Journeys strike the perfect balance of comfort and adventure, leaving you free to focus on the joy of discovery.
Guided travel involves hiring a professional guide who serves as a local guide and driver, and takes care of the driving responsibilities. The traveler can focus on enjoying the trip and the destination without the stress of driving. The driver-guide provides local knowledge, expertise, and recommendations, and can offer a more immersive and personalized experience. It can be more expensive than self-drive travel but provides convenience, safety, and local insights.
Journey Itinerary
Touch down at Cape Town International Airport and begin your scenic journey to Hermanus, the whale-watching capital of South Africa. The drive winds through rugged mountains, coastal passes, and charming little towns, offering your first taste of the Cape’s natural beauty. On arrival, settle into your accommodation and breathe in the fresh sea air. Depending on your arrival time, take a relaxed stroll along the famous cliff paths, where ocean views and the possibility of spotting whales right from shore create a magical start to your adventure.
Today promises an unforgettable experience at sea. Board a specialized vessel for a Whale & Big-5 Marine Cruise, a rare chance to witness Southern Right Whales in their natural environment, often breaching just meters away. Keep an eye out for other members of the “Marine Big Five”: dolphins, seals, penguins, and even the elusive great white shark. With expert guides onboard, you’ll gain fascinating insights into these creatures and their ocean habitat. The sheer thrill of seeing them in the wild will be one of the highlights of your journey.
After yesterday’s excitement, enjoy a more leisurely pace. Hermanus offers much more than whales: charming art galleries, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants line the streets. Wander along the cliff path that stretches for kilometers with uninterrupted sea views, or head slightly inland to explore wine estates in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, known for its cool-climate wines and rolling vineyards. For the adventurous, there are hikes in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve with stunning views across the bay. Whether you choose relaxation or exploration, this day is yours to enjoy at your own rhythm.
Bid farewell to the coastal charm of Hermanus as you are collected for your transfer back to Cape Town International Airport. Take one last look at the ocean, perhaps spotting a whale tail in the distance if the season is right, and carry home memories of breathtaking seascapes, marine encounters, and the tranquil beauty of South Africa’s Whale Coast.
What is a single supplement?
On camping tours, single supplements are optional however on accommodated tours, single supplements are compulsory if you are travelling on your own. If you have purchased the single supplement, you will receive your own tent / room for the tour. However, in the event that your Activity Package includes an activity that involves accommodation, you will be required to share for the duration of that activity. The single supplement does not cover any Activity Package items and these are booked on a shared basis, regardless if you are on a camping or accommodated tour.
Only a maximum of 4 Single Supplements are allowed per tour. Any extra Single Supplements are on requests basis only.
When is a single supplement required?
All of our tours are priced on twin share accommodation. If you are booking one of our accommodated tours and you are travelling on your own, you are required to pay the single supplement. There are a maximum of 4 single supplements available on all tours.
If you require accommodation before or after your journey we can arrange this for you. We can also arrange airport transfers – contact your travel agent or Nomad to make these bookings.
Nomad has a non-profit Trust that looks after the people, animals and places that we visit. We realise that a footprint is left where we travel and for this reason, the Nomad Africa Trust was established. Your donation to the Trust is called a “Green Seat”. If you would like to help Nomad making Africa Greener, simply choose the tick box during your booking process (or contact us afterwards to add it) and we will take care of the rest. The Nomad African Trust is responsible for the administration of the funds collected from the sale of the green seats and these funds are distributed to various projects as identified by the Trust.