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In Simon’s Town, on the east coast of Cape Town, South Africa, there is a small bay called “Boulders” that is home to penguins.
Mediterranean climate
The Hermanus Penguin Sanctuary is located along the beautiful coastline of the Western Cape and is dedicated to the conservation of the African penguin, which is an endangered species. The sanctuary plays a vital role in preserving the natural environment and educating the public about the threats to penguins and their habitat.
The sanctuary is located in Hermanus, about 120 km from Cape Town, South Africa. You can get there by car, taxi, or private transport. Public buses are also available from Cape Town to Hermanus. Once in Hermanus, it's a short walk or drive to the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is open daily, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during the early morning or late afternoon when the penguins are more active. The peak breeding season, from September to November, is an excellent time to visit for penguin enthusiasts.
The entrance fee is approximately ZAR 50 per adult and ZAR 30 per child. Tickets can be purchased directly at the sanctuary's entrance or online through their official website for convenience.
Booking in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. You can book tickets 1-2 days in advance if preferred, especially if you want to secure a guided tour.
To fully explore the Hermanus Penguin Sanctuary, allocate about 1-2 hours. This allows time for a walk around the coastal paths, observing the penguins, and visiting the information center.
Guided tours are available in English and can be booked on-site or in advance. These tours provide deeper insights into the penguins' behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts.
Start with the information center to learn about the sanctuary and penguin conservation. Then, proceed along the coastal paths and visit the penguin viewing platforms for the best views. End your visit with a stop at the souvenir shop or café for refreshments.
Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows. However, the sanctuary does offer special tours during the penguin breeding season that provide more detailed information about the penguins and their behavior.
The sanctuary can get busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays or outside of peak tourist seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets, a small café offering light refreshments, and a souvenir shop are available at the sanctuary. Bring your own water if you plan to walk the coastal paths.
The sanctuary is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, with well-maintained paths and viewing areas. However, some parts of the coastal trails may be difficult for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.
Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payments (such as credit cards and mobile wallet services like Google Pay) are also available at the entrance and café.
A small café inside the sanctuary offers light refreshments. There are also several restaurants and cafes in Hermanus, including seafood options and local eateries.
While the sanctuary's café offers basic snacks, nearby restaurants in Hermanus offer a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options.
Yes, there is a souvenir shop at the sanctuary offering items such as penguin-themed merchandise, local arts and crafts, and eco-friendly products.
After visiting the sanctuary, you can continue your trip by car or taxi. For longer trips, buses are available to and from Cape Town. Hermanus is also a popular stop for guided tours around the Cape Peninsula.
