Whale Watching

Africa’s oceans offer some of the best whale watching opportunities in the world. We’ll share our tips on when to go and where to stay – in some of our hotels and lodges, you can even spot the whales from the comfort of your room.

South Africa

From July to November, large numbers of Southern Right whales head to the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean just off the South African coast.

Hermanus is one of the best places in the world for land-based whale watching, where you can often spot the whales from the clifftop paths. Boat trips and scenic flights can also be arranged. Listen out for the world’s only ‘Whale Crier’ who signals whale locations using a kelp horn.

The De Hoop Nature Reserve offers whale watching atop magnificent sand dunes. Whales may also be spotted in the waters off Plettenberg Bay, generally at the start or end of their migratory route around May/June and October/November.

Humpback whales are frequently seen in the waters off the KwaZulu-Natal coastline between the months of July and November. The majestic mammals are often visible from the decks of our beach lodges along the coast, while boat trips can also be arranged.

Kenya

Humpback whales migrate through the Watamu National Marine Protected Area on the Kenyan coast, travelling north from June onwards and returning south to Antarctica with their calves around October. What could be better than a Big 5 safari in one of Kenya’s exceptional wildlife areas followed by a Big 5 Marine Safari on the coast?

Zanzibar

Humpback whales are typically seen in the waters around the islands of the Zanzibar archipelago from late July through to the end of August.

Madagascar

June to September is the whale watching season in Madagascar as the humpback whales migrate around the island. Off the eastern coast, the narrow channel between Ile Sainte Marie and the Madagascan mainland is a protected place for breeding and calving. Between October and November, the whales may also be seen around Tsarabanjina and Nosy Be to the north.

Other destinations

Between July and November the migrating humpback whales may be seen off the southwest coast of Mauritius or along the Mozambican coast from Ponta Mamoli in the south to the Bazaruto Islands and the Tofo Peninsula. On St Helena, humpback whales have been spotted between June and December.

Be inspired by the African Pride Brochure

Explore some of the best experiences that Africa and the Indian Ocean has to offer in the African Pride brochure.

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How to plan a holiday

Your choice of holiday and safari to Africa & the Indian Ocean will be unique to you.

Using our extensive knowledge, experience and passion for Africa built up over many years, we are perfectly placed to tailor your personalised itinerary.