2 day WOW Cape Escape - Local Tastes, Whale Coast, Wild Cats, Penguins, Mountain Zipline tour - 2day WOW | Hotspots2c
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Type
Join Group
Package
Private Transfers
Tailored

Transport
4x4 Jeep & Van
Van

Tempo
Medium pace
Packed pace

Wow Cape Escape

wishlist it

from

$208

per person for group of 8
Duration of tour
2 days
Join Group

Transfer Type

Van
Guaranteed to depart
Saturday

Overview

Set off on a laid-back adventure, winding from the rolling hills of the Overberg to the seaside charm of Hermanus, known as the world’s ultimate land-based whale-watching spot. Kick things off with a warm Xhosa welcome in Kayamandi, where a local host invites you to enjoy traditional, homemade snacks while sharing stories that bring this vibrant community to life.

Cruise along the jaw-dropping Clarence Drive, stopping at Stony Point Reserve in Betty’s Bay to meet its waddling residents – an adorable colony of African penguins. Once in Hermanus, take your time soaking in the coastal vibe with a sunset cliff walk or, in whale season (June–November), marvel at southern right whales up close from shore – or jump on a sunset boat cruise if you're feeling adventurous.

Start your morning in Hermanus with the cool ocean breeze filling the air before heading to Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary. Visit rescued lions, leopards, and tigers in this ethical haven, and learn about their inspiring stories along with the essential conservation work being done to protect them. On your way back to Cape Town, you’ll need to choose your adventure: either stop at Elgin’s Railway Market at the quirky train station, now a vibrant hub for local produce, artisanal crafts, and food stalls, before a short hike in the breathtaking Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve – OR – for the thrill-seekers, opt for an adrenaline-pumping zipline experience (optional at extra cost) over the lush Elgin Valley. Once done, rejoin the group in the late afternoon, arriving in Cape Town after sunset.

Start

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
End

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
 
Distance
±
600
km
Tempo
Medium pace
Ideal For
Friends

Why You'll Love It

  • Meet the cute resident penguins at Stony Point Nature Reserve.

  • Wind along the wild beauty of the Kogelberg Biosphere with the dramatic coastal scenery of Clarence drive.

  • Soar above the tree line as you zipline along astonishing Elgin Valley mountainscapes.

  • Experience a colourful slice of Xhosa culture and local delights in Kayamandi.

  • Take a trip back to Victorian times as you visit the Art Deco inspired Railway Market in the Elgin Valley.

  • Connect, learn, and support rescued African felines at Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary.

Itinerary guideline

This tour itinerary guideline is ideal for groups of students, friends, volunteers, or interns travelling together and may need to run in reverse or a different order.
Cape Whale Coast > Hermanus > Overberg
± 150
Day 1

Your adventure begins with an afternoon pick-up from your Cape Town or Stellenbosch accommodation. Travel through the scenic Overberg region to the charming seaside town of Hermanus, famous for its land-based whale-watching.

First, stop in Kayamandi for a warm Xhosa welcome. A local host will invite you into their home to enjoy traditional treats like Magwinya (a melt-in-your-mouth savoury bun), spicy chakalaka relish, and rooibos tea. Sit around the table, sharing stories and soaking up the vibrant community spirit.

 

 
 
± 3 hrs

Next, head to Stony Point Reserve in Betty’s Bay, home to a thriving colony of African penguins. Watch these adorable creatures waddle along the rocks, and be sure to spot the rock hyraxes sunbathing nearby.

Continue along the breathtaking Clarence Drive (if open) to Hermanus, arriving in the late afternoon. Take a sunset cliff walk or, during whale season (June–November), spot southern right whales from shore.

Stay Package

Accommodation included according to your selected stay package. Subject to availability.

Day 2

Start your morning with a visit to the Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to see rescued lions, leopards, tigers, and other big cats. While listening to fascinating stories of how each one was saved, you’ll be introduced to important conservation projects that aim to ensure their survival.

 
± 200 km

On the way back to Cape Town, choose your adventure:

Zipline Adventure in the Mountains:  

For thrill-seekers, zipline across the lush landscapes of the Elgin Valley (optional activity at extra cost). A 4x4 drive along a dirt track takes you to the mountaintop, where you’ll glide between 13 platforms on slides stretching up to 320m. Professional guides share fascinating insights about the area’s nature and geology.

 
 

- OR - 

Local Market & Mountain Walk: 

Explore Elgin’s quirky Railway Market, a converted 1940s station filled with local crafts and food stalls, before enjoying a short hike in the scenic Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve.

 
 

Meet back in the late afternoon and return to Cape Town after sunset, feeling inspired by nature after your unforgettable Whale Coast escape. 

Included

Small Group

You will join a small group size of travellers per vehicle. 

The itinerary can run in reverse or a different order, and guides or transport will change during the trip.

There is a minimum numbers requirement to confirm this tour – if the minimum is not reached, an alternative option (at extra charge) or another possible date will be offered.

Local Guide

Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.

Transport

Transfers to included tour highlights. 

Pick-up + Drop-off

There is no central meeting point for this tour. A transfer service will collect you from your Cape Town or Stellenbosch accommodation.

Accommodation

1 nights accommodation according to the itinerary.

Meals

1x Breakfast

Included Activities & Entry fees
  • Visit a Kayamandi Local's Home
  • Meet the Betty's Bay penguins
  • Meander along Clarence Drive
  • Panthera Africa - Big Cat Sanctuary Visit

Excluded

✕ Optionals

Optional activities can be paid and booked during your journey.

✕ Flights

Local and international flights are excluded.

✕ Travel Insurance

You are responsible for your own personal travel insurance. 

✕ Drinks

All drinks can be purchased on tour.

Terms & Conditions

Click on the terms for more details.

Payment Policy: Minimum of 8 people per group required. Full payment required to confirm

A minimum of 8 people needs to pay the full amount to confirm this tour departure. 

Cancellation / Refund Policy:
30+day notice 80% refund
21+days notice 50% refund
< 20 days notice no refund

 

  • Cancellation at least 30 days prior to tour departure date = 20% cancellation fee

  • Cancellation 21 to 29 days prior to tour departure date = 50% cancellation fee

  • Cancellation within 20 days prior to tour departure date or no-show will not be granted a refund

 

Refer to the full private tour booking terms online at: https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#privateterms 

Cancellation fees are calculated on the total booking price.

Child Policy: No children under 8 years

Children under 8 years are not allowed.

Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult and book a private room.

Children under 18 years are not allowed to stay or book a dorm sharing room package.

Minors under 18 years are not allowed to consume alcohol and will require adult consent to partake in some optional activities.

FAQ



  Click on question to show answer

How can we help you plan your dream tour package?
Hotspots2c is a tour operator based in the Cape Town region.  We offer tour packages that include guided transport + accommodation + day activities. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or to turn your trip wishlist into the tour package of your dreams.
Tammy-lee
Reservations

My passion for hiking gave me a deep appreciation for being surrounded by nature... With some of my local and international must-visit outdoor spots already ticked off from my travel wishlist, I'll always be dreaming about my next adventure. Being part of the travel industry since 2016, especially my recent position as an airline ticketing and customer care consultant; helping fellow travellers plan their perfect holiday perfectly aligns with my love to share our uniquely diverse cultures and places with the world. - Tammy Mackriel

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country info

 what to expect

 

South Africa

  

11 official Languages Spoken

Afrikaans – English – isiNdebele – Sepedi.– Sesotho – Siswati – Xitsonga – Setswana – Tshivenda – isiXhosa

How to say hello?

Molo – Xhosa

Sawubona - Zulu

Hallo - Afrikaans

Dumela - SeSotho

 

Electricity – Volt & plug

The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs are 15 amp 3-prong or 5 amp 2-prong, with round pins.

Measurements 

Metric System

 

WiFi/Internet Access on tour 

WiFi can be found at most accommodations, restaurants and airports, however, the download speed is often slow and many connections limit your data usage. In short, you’ll be able to stay connected with home, but don't expect to watch HD movies in your spare time.

 

When to go

South Africa is blessed with a mostly mild climate, but different areas will yield different temperatures throughout the year. Summer in South Africa is usually peak season, lasting between November – February, however, Easter time (March) is often still considered peak season too. Temperatures range from 25ºC in coastal areas to high 30ºs in inland areas. Cape Town has ideal weather during this time and Durban sports warm beaches and humid air, Johannesburg experiences hot clear days and often an afternoon thunderstorm.

The shoulder season is April and May, as well as September and October. Surprisingly, the weather in Durban is often at its best during this time, and other areas simmer down from their scorching highs. Prices are lower and crowds are smaller. September and October see eruptions of flowers and blooms all around the country.

Winter is beautiful in most parts of the country. Cape Town experiences winter rain and is often a little cold and miserable, but still crisp and beautiful. Because of the warm Indian Ocean, Durban has spectacular weather in winter, often hovering around 20-25ºC with clear blue skies. Inland areas get quite chilly and the odd snowfall is not uncommon (it only lasts for a day though!). Prices are at an all-time low and it is an ideal time for game viewing, as the animals are more active in the cooler weather. 

The Garden Route enjoys a Mediterranean Oceanic climate, which is intrinsically temperate and mild almost all year round. Summers are warm to hot, and winters are cool. Second only to Hawaii, the Garden Route is acclaimed for having one of the mildest climates in the world.

However, the winter rain season can cause some delays for outdoor activities but the mild sunny days and the appeal of seeing the Southern Right Whale migration makes the Cape Whale Coast & Garden Route an ideal destination during the European summer holidays. You can expect cool mornings and evenings, but usually the climate remain bright and sunny during the day.

 

Best time to go where?

Jun-Jul ( mid winter) = Safari in Kruger region

Jan-Feb ( mid summer) = Cape Town city or beach destinations along the Cape Coast

Year-Round = Moderate weather in the Garden Route region

 

Public Holidays

With the possible exception of Christmas Day and New Year's Day, most tourist services and attractions are open on South African public holidays. In addition most city shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues remain open.

1 Jan   New Year's Day
21 Mar   Human Rights Day
30 Mar   Good Friday
2 Apr   Family Day
27 Apr   Freedom Day
1 May   Workers' Day
16 Jun   Youth Day
9 Aug   National Women's Day
24 Sep   Heritage Day
16 Dec   Day of Reconciliation
17 Dec   Day of Reconciliation Holiday
25 Dec   Christmas Day
26 Dec   Day of Goodwill

 

Visa & Travel docs

Travellers from most Commonwealth countries (excluding New Zealand), most Western European nations, Japan and the USA receive a free, 90-day visitor's permit on arrival. These travellers do not need a visa to enter South Africa. A valid passport is essential with at least two empty pages. You generally will need to show return or onward travel arrangements. Children aged under 18 must show an unabridged birth certificate (showing both parents details).

Some countries do, however, need a visa. Visas are not issued upon entry, they must be attained beforehand. It is advised that you clarify this before you leave, the Department of Home Affairs office has a comprehensive list of countries that do not require visas. http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries

 

What to pack

We're generally laid back in South Africa, so no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when you head to our shores. Here's some clothing advice when in South Africa:

  • For the summers, bring clothes that are cool and comfortable, along with an umbrella or rain jacket, as this is when most of the country gets rain. A light jacket or wrap is a good precaution. Don't forget a swimming costume.
  • The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But we do get some days when temperatures plummet, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg (some nights go below 0ºC), so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. If you are going to the Cape, rain gear will be needed in this season (your average here will be between 10-20ºC).
  • Always bring a hat - the sun can be strong even in the winter months. Make sunglasses, a hat and sunblock a firm part of your skin care kit.
  • Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
  • For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard and kit yourself out like David Livingstone, out to explore Africa for the first time.
  • For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, go the smart-casual route. If you are simply going out to get a bite to eat, a general “no shirt, no shoes - no service” rule applies, so as long as you are fully clad, your attire should not be an issue.
  • When travelling with Hotspots2c we encourage reasonably sized bags for multi-day tours and we are able to accommodate bags that are on average under 20kgs. For one and two day tours, a light backpack is encouraged. 

  

Health & Safety

There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter South Africa with exception of a yellow fever vaccination if you have been in a yellow fever area within the last 12 months.

The only major health risk you might face in South Africa is malaria, which is confined to small areas in the north-eastern parts of the country. Small pockets of the northern parts of the Kruger National Park fall under this area but the risk here is considered extremely low and it is not always necessary to take anti-malaria tablets. Remember as a precautionary measure to check with your doctor or a local travel clinic on what is recommended for your country to visit South Africa.

 

For more info about the safety regulations on tour - please see https://hotspots2c.co.za/ideas/safetravels

 

South Africa may have high crime statistics, but if you conduct yourself wisely, most tourists enjoy the country without any incident at all. Here are some tips: ensure that you lock away your passports and travel documents in a safe, which is usually provided by your accommodation or keep valuables at a safe place. Don't flash around valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all time. Majority of South Africa’s crime is opportunistic petty crime, so if you are vigilant about your belongings you should not have any problem.

 

Getting Around 

South Africa has 3 world-class airports that receive international flights every day; Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Most international airlines will have flights into one or all of these airports daily.

There are numerous budget carriers that offer domestic flights between the major cities for very reasonable rates; this is the fastest and safest way to span large distances, especially between Johannesburg and Cape Town, which is a 2-hour flight.

From the airports there are numerous shuttles and taxis that you can pick up upon arrival, there are also many different car hire options at each airport and in all major cities. Uber is another reliable and affordable option.

 

Money 

Our currency in South Africa is the South African Rand. You can easily convert your currency to rand at a bank or Forex Bureau, the airports and larger towns often have many different Forex options. You can also withdraw from an ATM, banks are available throughout South Africa. Be sure to check what international bank charges you will incur for withdrawals before you arrive. Major credit cards are usually accepted in hotels or restaurants, however, there may be a surcharge. It is advisable to have small amounts of cash for curios and tipping. 

Tipping

  • Tour Guides and Drivers – Tipping on tour is neither expected nor compulsory, however, should you wish to tip the team on the road you are welcome to decide on a value that match the level of service received. A recommendation usually range from R50 to R200 per person per day.
  • Restaurants and Bars - Tipping in restaurants is the norm and is customarily kept at 10% of the total shown on the bill. Many restaurants will add a 10% service charge to a bill if the number of guests exceeds six or ten.
  • Hotels - At hotels you may also leave money to housekeeping at the end of your stay. Porter fees may already be included in your quote, and will be listed under your tour package inclusions.
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