South Africa’s Whale Route is just 'over the mountain' from Cape Town in the Overberg region. The heart of the route is the once-humble fishing village of Hermanus which has grown into a world-famous tourist destination, known for offering outstanding whale watching from June to October. Appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike, the Whale Route offers whale watching, wine tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, beaches, restaurants, art galleries and boutique hotels.
Highlights
Watch female Southern Right Whales come inshore to Walker Bay and calve
Enjoy spectacular views and cosy seaside charm
Take a boat trip to get closer to the whale migration
Indulge in shark cage diving, golfing, hiking, surfing and much more
Iconic Activities
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Whale Watching
Shark Diving
Canoeing/Kayaking
Golf
Hiking
Wine Tour
Explore More
Whale Route Map
Enriching encounters
ICONIC WILDLIFE
Whether you want to observe the area's spectacular sea creatures underwater or from the shore, our expert guides reveal the typical marine life, as well as the endemic mammal and bird species, to expect in Whale Route
Orca
Humpback Whale
Great White Shark
Cape Fur Seal
Bottlenose Dolphin
Baboon
African Penguin
Southern Right Whale
Sample Itineraries
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From majestic wildlife to out of this world natural wonders, enchanting beaches and intriguing cities, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is thrilling. Unsure where to visit? Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a milestone celebration or simply a much-needed escape, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of favourites.
From remote safari camps to world-class resorts, our selected properties are hand-picked by our experts and endorsed by our guests. Often intimate, always exceptional, we'll choose the perfect lodges, hotels and villas to suit your personal style and interests.
Start your African journey
HOW TO BOOK
At Mahlatini, we like to make things easy for you. Browse our website for inspiration or pick up the phone. Whether you’re full of ideas or unsure of where to start, we’re here to help. Serial safari-goer or first-time visitor, we’re ready to create your ultimate tailormade itinerary.
Connect
Call us or inquire online. Share your wish list and we’ll start planning your adventure.
Customize
Your dedicated travel expert will be in touch within 24 hours to start designing your bespoke African itinerary.
Confirm
We won’t stop refining your plans until we get the perfect trip at the best price.
Travel
Receive your Mahlatini travel documents, pack your bags and set off on your trip of a lifetime!
We routinely go the extra mile to ensure that we not only plan the perfect itinerary but ensure that you're in good hands at every stage of your journey. That's why we are especially proud to maintain an overall client satisfaction rating of 98%.
Divya Sharma, 2nd November 2023
vacation to
South Africa & Zimbabwe
We cannot say enough good things about our once-in-a-lifetime trip that wouldn't have been possible without Mahlatini. We fell in love with South Africa. They really took such good care of us and it was amazing to not have to think about any planning so we could truly be present and enjoy the exper…
Fantastic trip from start to finish. This is quite honestly the best trip we have ever had. So much to do and see in Cape Town and the food in both Cape Town and Franschhoek was amazing. The Safari was the highlight and an experience we will never forget.
+1 347-708-1755
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Whale Watching
Shark Diving
Canoeing/Kayaking
Golf
Hiking
Wine Tour
