South Africa

When to go

• Peak times are early December to mid-January and around Easter.

• In popular holiday spots, acommodation books up months in advance.

• Sunny autumn (Apr–May) and spring (Sep–Oct) weather.

• Winter is ideal for wildlife watching. • Rainy season in Cape Town and the Western Cape.

Whale Watching

South Africa is one of the best destinations worldwide for watching marine wildlife, especially whales. Every year, southern right whales migrate from their icy feeding grounds off Antarctica to warmer climates, reaching South Africa in June, where they can be seen along the Cape south coast. They will be mating, calving and rearing their young. Peak calving season is July and August and whales can continue to be seen through September and October.

The whale viewing during the months of July and August vary from year to year depending on how many whales are present in Walker Bay and along the coast; however you are almost guaranteed of seeing whales in September, October and November.

Enormous pods of dolphins can be seen all year-round. The Bryde’s Whale together with Orca's are seen around the year, though less common to spot them.

Guided sea kayaking trips are available for the more adventurous and offer a unique opportunity to watch whales and explore the magnificent coastline.