Cape Agulhas and Hermanus Day Tour Explore Africa Southern Coast

Cheetah Outreach Somerset West is a conservation center dedicated to protecting cheetahs and educating visitors. Enjoy close-up encounters, learn about wildlife conservation, and support vital protection efforts.

Stony Point Nature Reserve is a coastal wildlife reserve in Betty’s Bay, Western Cape, best known for its historic African Penguin breeding colony, one of the few mainland colonies in South Africa. Here you can see these charming, vulnerable birds living in their natural habitat, along with other seabirds and small coastal wildlife.

What to See & Do:

African Penguins: Walk on a raised boardwalk right through the colony to observe penguins going about their daily activities without disturbing them.

Bird & Wildlife Spotting: In addition to penguins, look out for cormorants (Crowned, Cape & Bank), gulls, and playful Rock Hyrax (dassies) on the rocks.

Scenic Setting: The reserve is set on the site of the old Waaygat Whaling Station, with remnants of historical infrastructure and spectacular coastal views.

Community Café/Restaurant: There’s a local eatery near the entrance where you can enjoy refreshments and meals before or after your walk.

Stand at the official southernmost point of the African continent, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Visit the iconic monument, explore the rugged coastline, and enjoy sweeping ocean views near South Africa’s historic second-oldest lighthouse.

Cape Agulhas Lighthouse is South Africa’s second-oldest working lighthouse and one of the most historic maritime landmarks in the country. It stands near the southernmost tip of Africa, where treacherous seas and strong currents caused numerous shipwrecks, earning the area the nickname “Graveyard of Ships.”

History

Construction completed: 1849

Commissioned: 1 March 1849

Purpose: Built to guide ships safely around the dangerous Agulhas coastline, where warm Indian Ocean waters meet cold Atlantic currents, creating unpredictable seas and frequent storms.

Before the lighthouse was built, more than 150 ships were wrecked along this coast. Public pressure from maritime authorities and ship owners led to its construction to improve navigation safety.

The lighthouse tower is 27 meters high, and its light originally burned whale oil, later replaced by paraffin, and today operates with modern electric lighting. Despite modern technology, it remains an active lighthouse.

The museum is located in the historic keeper’s cottage attached to the lighthouse and features displays on the maritime history of the region, including shipwrecks, early explorers, lighthouse technology, and life of the keepers.

Exhibits include historical equipment, posters, and interpretive panels that highlight why this coast was so perilous to shipping before modern navigation.

The museum experience is often included with access to the lighthouse and enhances your visit to the southernmost tip of Africa.

Exploring the Hermanus Cliff Path is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this picturesque coastal town and its stunning natural scenery. Stretching around 12 kilometers along the rugged shoreline, the path offers panoramic views of the ocean, rocky cliffs, and pristine beaches. It’s well maintained and easy to walk, making it ideal for both casual strollers and avid hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass through coastal fynbos, manicured gardens, and scenic lookout points—perfect for photos or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.

The Cliff Path is world-famous for land-based whale watching, particularly from June to November, when southern right whales migrate close to shore. From many vantage points, you may spot whales just meters away from the path. Even outside whale season, the trail is alive with birdlife, seals, and dolphins, making it a year-round wildlife experience.

Wine tasting at Benguela Cove Wine Estate is more than just sampling exceptional wines—it’s an immersive experience in one of South Africa’s most scenic wine regions. Situated along the Bot River Lagoon near Hermanus, the estate boasts stunning views of rolling vineyards, sparkling waters, and the distant Atlantic Ocean. Located in the cool-climate Walker Bay region, Benguela Cove produces wines celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and distinctive character. Visitors can unwind in a picturesque setting while exploring a carefully curated selection of wines, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share insights into the terroir, winemaking process, and unique flavors of each varietal.

As we head back to your hotel, we hope today’s Cape Agulhas tour leaves you with wonderful memories, laughter, and stories to share for years to come!