Walk with Whales

Wild Wellness, Whale Coast, Western Cape

Introducing our exclusive ‘Walk with Whales’, situated just 30 kilometres south along the same unique coastline as The Whale Trail, a path we’ve proudly trekked over 20 times since 2007.

Over the past two and a half years, our dedicated team has meticulously curated the finest walking routes, identified crucial water points, studied the history and culture of the area and arranged beautiful accommodation in prime locations – varying from backpackers to luxury and optimised daily distances.

The daily walks are the same for everyone, but you get to choose the accommodation that suits your desires and pocket.

With our in-depth knowledge of logistics and the area, we guarantee an unforgettable journey, ensuring that every step is a cherished memory.

It is much easier if airport transfers, additional accommodation in Hermanus either side of your walk and extra activities are booked and arranged by our team. This allows us to manage them before you arrive and while you are walking – and you don’t have to worry about a thing.

2024 & 2025 Bookings ARE OPEN for the PEAK WHALE SEASON (12 August to 12 November only)

5 days / 4 nights / Moderate / 53 km / 33miles

(There are only 92 days available each year and 47 have sold – so early booking is advisable)

You may request to do this hike during other months of the year, if you have a group of 10 people.

An Overview

What is unique about this walk?

Thepristine beaches with rarely another soul on them; rock outcrops giving you elevation to see the whales close by; coastal paths that take you to incredible places of interest and the opportunity to discover the historical lifestyle of the Strandlopers. All of this provides a stunning walk where you get to observe the majestic whales gracefully navigating their breeding and migration paths. Along this walk, the whales are known to come as close as 20 meters to the shore, and you have the opportunity to see them everyday.

The scenery: Breathtaking. The turquoise ocean is only found in this area, there are colourful soft and hard corals scattered along the shoreline and the fynbos is plentiful.

The terrain: The beach walking is done at low tide when the sand is at its hardest and can be done barefoot or in shoes. The paths and koppies that you climb are well marked and gentle.

Sustainability: On this walk we support local communities and businesses, help preserve the heritage of the area, report beach findings to the relevant conservation authorities and help with beach clean-ups.

The Itineary

Day 1: Arrival Day (4Km)

Our shared transport leaves Hermanus at 13h00 taking you to the start of your hike. If needed, secure parking is available for your cars. Please see in the details section below if you are travelling from out of town, as our team will help with airport transfers and additional accommodation in Hermanus either side of the hike if you would like to spend more time in the area.

Tonights accommodation boasts a scenic view of the turquoise ocean, the harbour, and all the enchantments that Arniston has to offer. You are bound to see whales frolicking in the bay right in front of your home. It’s entirely captivating. We then embark on an introductory stroll, either delving into the history of the ancient Strandloper (beach walker) and discover a large and exquisite sea cave(tide dependant), OR explore the oldest fishing village in South Africa.

Enjoy sundowners with our team, as we walk you through an introductory talk and give you a clear understanding of what to expect in the next few days. We will then be joined by folk from the local fishing village, Kassiesbaai, who share their history, culture and joyous stories. This cultural experience is an authentic African treat and contributes to the support of the local community. Dinner at your home.

Day 2: (14 km)

Greet the morning with an awe-inspiring sunrise painting the ocean before your eyes, filling your lungs with the invigorating freshness of the sea breeze. Embark on your first day of adventure with your departure time based on the low tide. Start your day with a 3 kilometre walk through the stunning fynbos (or a walk down to the sea cave, depending on tides) and then continue your journey along a pristine, untouched beach, where the presence of whales is a sight to behold. This stretch is a picturesque 9 kilometres, with a picnic lunch en-route. Finally, a leisurely 2 kilometres walk leads you to your evening sanctuary, where a delicious dinner awaits, inviting you to unwind and share tales around a crackling fire.

Day 3: (11 km)

Ease into the day with a gentle stroll during low tide, leading you to a charming Cape style fishing cottage. Feel the enchantment of the setting as you soak in the turquoise Indian Ocean’s warmth and enjoy rejuvenating swims.

Today allows you time to relax, read, chat, sleep or play games. Tonight offers a traditional South African braai with freshly baked bread and a medley of delectable salads served on the splendid patio, adding a touch of authentic culinary delight to your evening.

Day 4: (16 km)

Embrace an early wake-up with a refreshing beach stretch, leisurely stroll and an invigorating dip in the ocean. Set your sights south as you embark on a scenic journey, passing by the vibrant local fishing harbour, adorned with an array of colourful fishing boats. Keep an eye out for the resident Stingray Parrie, a beloved figure in the town since his release from the Two Oceans Aquarium several years ago.

Explore coastal paths, koppies with a maximum elevation of 120m, and visit the second oldest working lighthouse in South Africa. Experience the surreal meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans at the Southern Tip of Africa. Standing here is a surreal experience. Pass by a historic shipwreck, a testament to the area and the Cape of Storms. Delve deeper into the history of the ancient Strandloper route and see what few in the world will ever get to.

Your day ends as you walk into private nature reserve, where your accommodation is the furthest accommodation South on the African continent. Unwind by the tranquil turquoise lagoon for a sundowner and swim before a delightful dinner.

Take a deep breath and savour the profound sense of place, as you immerse yourself in the wonders of this extraordinary section of the world.

Day 5: (10 km)

Prepare for an exhilarating day with a leisurely awakening and a delicious breakfast. Embark on an unforgettable adventure along an extraordinary coastal path, boasting unparalleled elevated views of Walker Bay, renowned for the world’s most exceptional whale watching.

Descend to an ancient sea cave, a site of incredible archaeological significance, where there are remnants of Middle Stone Age man, dating back an astounding 70,000 to 80,000 years, with many of the discovered tools now on display at the esteemed Cape Town Museum. Conclude this remarkable journey with a light farewell lunch, leaving you with cherished memories.

Upon return to Hermanus, you have the option to travel home that evening, or stay over for a ‘night on the town’. Enjoy activities such as whale watching, wine tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde valley, or a sea kayak adventure.

It is much easier if transfers, accommodation and extra activities are booked and arranged by our team. This allows us to manage them for you while you are walking – and you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Rates and Packages:

Shared Accommodation

In beautiful homes and prime locations

R 8 900.00 per person sharing.
Solo travellers, small groups and large groups are all welcome.
A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12. (18 on request)
If the minimum number is not reached, we will transfer your booking to a suitable date or refund you.
If you prefer own exclusive group, please book all 12 places.

Included:

Accommodation: Shared homes in prime locations with a mixture of twin or double beds in separate rooms with shared bathrooms. Private rooms are limited and carry an additional charge of 30%.
Food and drinks: Delicious dinners catering to all dietary requirements and allergies. Homemade rusks and daily breakfasts. A variety of teas, filter or instant coffees. Diemersfontein wines, beers, ciders (non-alcoholic too,) cool drinks and waters. Evening snacks plus a farewell lunch.
Slack packing: Transfer of your luggage between homes, so that you only walk with a light day pack.
Transport: All transport between the start and finish of the hike.
Guidance: Experienced hike leader with local and marine knowledge, and Level 1 First Aid certification.
Permits: All conservation permits and entrance fees.
Complimentary fitness program: specifically curated for our walks by a Biokineticist, sent to you 7-weeks before your start date.
Hands on assistance: A comprehensive packing list, booking of airport transfers, booking accommodation in Hermanus either side of your hike and additional activities should you want.

Excluded:

Lunches: To accommodate diverse dietary needs, we offer a variety of options including hiking bars, healthy snacks, spreads with biscuits, biltong, cheeses, boiled eggs with real mayo, nuts, sweet treats, and more. Guests can help themselves to these selections each morning, operating on an ‘honesty bar’ system. If this is not for you – please BYO.
Transport: If you are travelling from out of town:
For out-of-town travelers, we provide airport transfers and can arrange additional accommodation before and after the hike. (Details available under ‘Traveling from Out of Town’ below).
If you are driving to Hermanus: There is safe parking in Hermanus near the meeting point for R100 per day.
Emergencies or any additional requirements not mentioned above.

Private En-suite Accommodation

In beautiful locations with communal space to share

R11 500.00 per person sharing.
R13 800.00 single supplement.

Solo travellers, small groups and large groups are all welcome.
A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12.
If the minimum number is not reached, we will transfer your booking to a suitable date or refund you.
If you prefer own exclusive group, please book all 12 places.

Included:

Private en-suite rooms in prime locations offering an upmarket experience. Single Supplements welcome.
Food and drinks: Delicious dinners catering to all dietary requirements and allergies.
Homemade rusks and daily breakfasts. A variety of teas, filter or instant coffees.
Diemersfontein wines, beers, ciders (non-alcoholic too,) cool drinks and waters.
Evening snacks plus a farewell lunch.
Slack packing: Transfer of your luggage between homes, so that you only walk with a light day pack.
Transport: All transport between the start and finish of the hike.
A hike leader who has local knowledge, vast marine knowledge, a love of the area, plus a level 1 First Aid certification.
Permits: All conservation permits and entrance fees.
Complimentary fitness program: specifically curated for our walks by a Biokineticist, sent to you 7-weeks before your start date.
Hands on assistance: A comprehensive packing list, booking of airport transfers, booking accommodation in Hermanus either side of your hike and additional activities should you want.

Excluded:

Backpackers Accommodation

R 6 500.00 pp

Small and large groups all welcome.
A minimum of 6 and no maximum number.
If the minimum number is not reached, we will transfer your booking to a suitable date or refund you.

Included:

Dorm style rooms: Bunk beds in shared rooms with shared bathrooms. There is no single option.
Food and drinks: Tea, coffee, cereal and fruit for breakfasts. Dinner on two nights.
Slack packing: Transfer of your luggage between homes, so that you only walk with a light day pack.
Transport: All transport between the start and finish of the hike.
Guidance: Experienced hike leader with local and marine knowledge, and Level 1 First Aid certification.
Permits: All conservation permits and entrance fees.
Complimentary fitness program: specifically curated for our walks by a Biokineticist, sent to you 7-weeks before your start date.
Hands on assistance: A comprehensive packing list, booking of airport transfers, booking accommodation in Hermanus either side of your hike and additional activities should you want.

Excluded:

Daily lunches for en-route, two dinners (you can buy these at the accommodation) and all drinks.
Transport: If you are travelling from out of town:
For out-of-town travellers, we provide airport transfers and can arrange additional accommodation before and after the hike. (Details available under ‘Traveling from Out of Town’ below).
If you are driving to Hermanus: There is safe parking in Hermanus near the meeting point for R100 per day.
Emergencies or any additional requirements not mentioned above.

The Details

Group sizes

There is a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 people *

We welcome solo travellers, small groups and large groups.
We strive to match solo travellers and small groups with like-minded people.
If the minimum is not reached, we will transfer your booking to a date suitable to you, or refund you.
* If you prefer own exclusive group, please book all 12 places.
* We will accommodate groups of up to 18 upon request.

Fitness

You need to be able to be on your feet for at least 6 hours a day, and walking fit.
Quite simply, the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy this walk.
To help with this, we will supply you with a free 6 week fitness program carefully designed for our hikes, to specifically build you up to a level that you will be able to enjoy the whole experience, be walking fit and strong around your knees, ankles and thighs.
Although we encourage you to have the full experience:
On Day 4 (the longest day of 16km), there are points en-route that we can pick you up.
Anyone needing a days break, is welcome to stay at the accommodation and we will transfer you to the next accommodation.

Luggage

This is a slack packing experience, which means that your luggage is taken between houses by us, and you only hike with your day pack.

Gear Rentals

You are welcome to rent the following from us. Pre-booking is imperative.

Daypacks (R200)
Trekking poles (R200 per set)

Where do we start and end?

In Hermanus at the Tourism Centre which is situated at the Old Station Building on the corner of Mitchell and Lord Roberts Street, Hermanus.
Our courtesy vehicle will depart from there on your first day at 13h00 and drop you off at 15h00 on your last day.

There is safe parking for your car nearby for R100 per day.

What to wear

A comprehensive packing list will be emailed through to you on confirmation of your hike.

Travelling from out of town?

No problem!

It is much easier if airport transfers, additional accommodation and extra activities are booked and arranged by our team. This allows us to manage them before you arrive and while you are walking – and you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Airport transfers between Cape Town International Airport and the start and end point of your hike.
Accommodation before or after the start of the hike. Why not spend an extra night in Hermanus? Let us know and we will help you book!
Driving in from out of town? Not to worry, we have safe parking for your car at R100.00 per day.

Cancellations

What if you have to cancel?

More than two months prior to your start date: We will refund you your full deposit.
Less than two months prior to your start date: Our team will try their best to resell your place, and encourage you to try and resell it too. Once your place has been confirmed and secured under a new name, we will transfer your booking and refund you. In the event that no one can find a replacement for your booking, all monies paid to date, are unfortunately then non refundable due to the logistics of the booking.

What if our team has to cancel?

We reserve the right to cancel or postpone a walk if the minimum number is not reached. In the event that this happens, we will transfer your booking to a suitable date for you, or refund you.
In the event that we have to cancel the walk a full refund will be issued on any monies that you have paid to date, with the exception of:
Extreme weather that prevents safe walking.
Government imposed travel restrictions.