2 Day Wine + Whale Coast - Join a Group or Private | 2day Winelands + Whale Coast - Stellenbosch, Hermanus, Cape Agulhas Tour | Hotspots2c
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Type
Join Group
Package
Private Transfer
Tailored

Transport
4x4 Jeep & Van
Van

Tempo
Medium pace
Packed pace

Duration of tour
2 days
Private Transfer

Transfer Type

Van
Departs when minimum requirements met

Overview

 itinerary PDF 

 

 Explore the winding roads from the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek Winelands to Hermanus - considered to be the best land-based whale watching spot in the world - to visit the tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas on this thrilling itinerary.  Begin your journey in the midst of the Stellenbosch Winelands as you experience some of the finest wines the region has to offer. Explore the quaint French Huguenot town of Franschhoek via a short wine tram ride before traveling to the southernmost tip of Africa – where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. Whilst the Big Five draw many visitors to Africa, on your second day of adventure, the Marine Big Five – whales, dolphins, seals, penguins and sharks – are the stars of the show during whale season, with cliff path hikes and in whale season (June - November) you'll have a chance to gaze upon enormous southern right whales from one of the best land-based whale-watching sites in the world or by boat cruise.If the big blues didn’t tickle your fancy then the visit to the Stony Point Reserve in Betty’s Bay (home to one of the largest successful breeding colonies of African penguins in the world) will certainly do the trick! These feathered entertainers always come dressed to the nines and are bound to waddle their way right into your heart. Learn about the conservation efforts of the reserve and have a peek into the many artificial penguin homes littered along the shores. End off your adventure with a delight for the senses as you drive along Clarence Drive, with dramatic twists along steep mountainsides, the perfect vantage point to view the vast False Bay. On a clear day, you can even see waves crashing on the tips of the Cape Peninsula!                                          

Start

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
End

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
 
Distance
±
450
km
Tempo
Packed pace
Ideal For
Couple
Friends
Solo

Why You'll Love It

  • Walk amongst fragrant fynbos along the Hermanus cliff paths for some of the world's best seasonal land-based whale watching.

  • Hop aboard a marine eco-cruise to get your chance to spot the Marine Big Five.

  • 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.

  • Tease your tastebuds along Franschhoek's charming streets in the gourmet capital of South Africa.

  • Stand at the point where two oceans meet at Africa's southernmost tip.

  • Choose to come face to face with sharks on an adrenaline-packed shark cage dive adventure.

  • Get a front row seat to view some of Hermanus' largest residents on a Whale Watching cruise.

  • Raise a glass with an MCC tasting of the first bubbly ever produced in South Africa.

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

  • Paddle along the Hermanus coastline and spot abundant marine wildlife from a sea kayak.

  • Hop aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram for a scenic journey through the valley's rolling vineyards to taste fine wines at Rickety Bridge winery.

Itinerary guideline

This itinerary guideline can run in reverse or a different order.
Day 1
Cape Agulhas
±200km

Start with a morning pick-up from your accommodation in Cape Town or Stellenbosch.

Discover the roads between the Cape Winelands toward the tranquil Overberg region as you journey like a local on this tantalising day. Set off toward the colourful lean-to houses of Kayamandi where you’ll be treated to colourful stories, tea or home-made ginger beer and an array of local Xhosa treats such as amagwinya (vetkoek) and chakalaka. 

With the fragrance of local delights lingering on your palate, you'll travel to the picturesque Simonsig, home of the country’s first-ever produced MCC. Enjoy a bubbly tasting from the masters as you take a moment to soak in the fresh country air and the beauty of the Stellenbosch Winelands.

Continue on to the quaint town of Franschhoek to uncover the beauty of this region aboard a vintage style railway tram while sipping on a glass of world-renowned vino from the surrounding vineyards. Departing from the central village ticket office, hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram for a short one-way journey through the rolling vineyards of the valley to reach Rickety Bridge winery for a standard wine tasting and sample a choice of 4 of their wines.

From the station platform, you'll be transported past rows of vines and the historic Cape Dutch Manor to the tasting centre by an open-air wagon pulled by the farm's tractor, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of a working winery. Summer weather calls for alfresco wine tasting overlooking vineyards and the majestic Wemmershoek Mountains, while on cooler days tastings will be around cosy wood-burning fireplaces.

As lunch nears, you’ll have time to explore the charming streets of Franschhoek, dotted with restaurants, cafés, galleries and quaint shops. This historic town was settled by French Huguenots in the 17th and 18th Century, but today is best known as the culinary and wine capital of South Africa with around 30 wine cellars and a similar number of restaurants including eight of the top 100 in the country.

Take in the views of the mountainous Overberg region as you travel to Cape Agulhas. Here, at Africa’s southernmost point, the warm Agulhas current that flows along the east of the continent meets the colder Benguela current of the Atlantic and turns back on itself. The marked beacon is the ideal spot for that must-have photo, and if you're daring enough, you can try and dip your toes into the icy waters while keeping an eye out for the resident stingrays. Soak in the deep colours of the rich sunset against the silhouette of shipwrecks as you spend the night in the area.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stay Package

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

Day 2
Cape Whale Coast > Hermanus
±200km

Subject to weather conditions and during whale season (Jun to Oct) an optional whale watching cruise is available at Hermanus. 

Wake up to the sound of the ocean in Cape Agulhas and take a moment to breathe in the fresh sea air. Move on to explore the coastal haven of Hermanus. Meander along coastal paths lined with indigenous fynbos, lulled by the crashing sounds of ocean waves against the rocky shoreline, and be on the lockout for whales. Nature lovers will be thrilled by the rich birdlife and the chance to see local marine life frolicking about. Hermanus is also one of the best land-based whale watching locations in the world, so you can look forward to trying to spot a few southern right whales during whale season from June to November. The hike will take around an hour, after which you’ll have a choice of how to spend the rest of your morning.

You could hop on an optional whale cruise in search of some cavorting whales during whale season. For a tamer pace, have a whale of a time in the seaside town of Hermanus, littered with curio shops, fine restaurants and an unmistakable old-world charm.

The thriving African penguin colony at Betty’s Bay adds the final nature wow. Being one of the only remaining breeding grounds of the African penguin, these clumsy creatures are sure to pull on your heartstrings. You can also spot rock hyraxes (dassies) sunbathing on the rocks in between the waddling penguins. Flap a wave goodbye as you head on along one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal routes - Clarence Drive - to reach Cape Town by late afternoon.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

End with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town accommodation.

Included

Closed Private

Transfers will be exclusive for your group in between stops. Private group tour per person rates change according to the group size.

 

 
Local Guide

Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.

Transport

Transfers to included tour highlights. 

Pickup + 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 night accommodation and bedding according to your Stay package selected.

Breakfast

1 x Breakfast is included

Included Activities & Entry fees
  • Meet the Betty's Bay penguins
  • Meander along Clarence Drive
  • Visit a Kayamandi Local's Home
  • Simonsig Bubbly Tasting
  • Tram Ride with Wine Tasting
  • Explore Franschhoek
  • Reach Cape Agulhas - The Tip of Africa

Excluded

Optionals

Optional activities are not included but also not compulsory. It can be booked and paid for directly with the guide and activity provider on tour.

  • Seasonal Hermanus Whale Cruise ±R1200

 

± Rates for optional activities are only an indication and subject to change by season or third party suppliers.

Travel Insurance

You are responsible for your own personal travel insurance. 

Meals + Drinks

You can purchase meals + drinks on tour.



ask us for a quote for your private closed group

Terms & Conditions

Click on the terms for more details.

Payment Policy: 10% deposit to reserve. Full payment 14 days prior.
*Buy Refund Protector policy for full refund

10% deposit or part payment is allowed up to 14 days before the departure date. Full payment is required to confirm a booking if made lass than 14 days before.

Buy the 10% non-refundable Refund Protector on the day of initial deposit to be eligible for a 100% refund up to 2+ day cancellation notice.

Cancellation / Refund Policy:
14+ days notice: 100% refund
13 to 8 days notice: 50%*
7 days or less notice: 0%*
 

Full payment is due at least 14 days before the tour departure.

If there’s no other option than to cancel or change your booking, fees may be involved depending on how far ahead of the departure date you cancel.

  • 14+ days notice before departure = free cancellation 100% refund 
  • 13 to 8 days notice before departure = 50% refund*
  • Up to 7 days notice prior, no shows or early checkout = no refund*  

*Exception:  Buy the 10% non-refundable Refund Protector on the day of initial deposit to be eligible for a 100% refund up to 2+ day cancellation notice.

 

Read the full terms online at https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#terms  

Travel insurance is not included in tour fees, invest in good travel insurance to cover you if you need to cancel or change a tour date due to any reason.  

Cancellation fees are calculated on the total value of the booking. Booking changes; including date changes within 7 days of the booking date is seen as a cancellation and standard cancellation terms will apply. 

Transfer fees and forex conversion costs charged by the banks will be billed to the customer.

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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