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Beam Over the Breaching Whales at the Hermanus Whale Festival
Published by Courtney McConnell, Writer
Country: South Africa 
The Experience
Every year Cape Town, South Africa hosts a wondrous celebration to welcome back the Southern Right Whales to Walker Bay. These majestic mammals intrigue and astound any and all that have the opportunity, or should I say privilege, to see them. Booming in popularity the Hermanus Whale Festival outgrew its original name, 'Whale of A Festival’; surging on to become the most acclaimed Enviro-Arts Festival in the country. During the winter and spring season the Southern Right Whales return from their Antarctic migration and dance along the shorelines of the Hermanus Coast for all to enjoy. Spottings are frequent and to help ensure that you catch an excellent show, the town of Hermanus employs a "whale crier" to walk through town announcing the latest locations of whale sightings. Known as the best whale-watching destination worldwide, the Hermanus Whale Festival is host to thousands who come to experience the beautiful culture and revered natural environment, while catching a glimpse of these magnificent and endangered deep-sea creatures.
With shows and events for all ages you won't be bored while you wait to see the whales. There are several performances from artists over the weekend in genres of rock, classical and even comedy. Along with the shows, whale watchers can view classic automobiles at the Whales and Wheels Classic Car Show. If you're into something more active, Death Valley Paintball will take place, as well as a Half Marathon and Golf Tournament. For the children, there are arts and crafts, face painting, bungy jumping and live shows.
In and around Hermanus South Africa there are many activities to take part in aside from what the Festival offers ranging from paragliding and hiking, to boating and sunbathing. If you feel like doing nothing at all, food and massages can keep you comfortable during the balmy days in Hermanus. As the Right Whales bound, blow and breach out the waters they will be sure to have you beaming from your time at the Hermanus Whale Festival.
With shows and events for all ages you won't be bored while you wait to see the whales. There are several performances from artists over the weekend in genres of rock, classical and even comedy. Along with the shows, whale watchers can view classic automobiles at the Whales and Wheels Classic Car Show. If you're into something more active, Death Valley Paintball will take place, as well as a Half Marathon and Golf Tournament. For the children, there are arts and crafts, face painting, bungy jumping and live shows.
In and around Hermanus South Africa there are many activities to take part in aside from what the Festival offers ranging from paragliding and hiking, to boating and sunbathing. If you feel like doing nothing at all, food and massages can keep you comfortable during the balmy days in Hermanus. As the Right Whales bound, blow and breach out the waters they will be sure to have you beaming from your time at the Hermanus Whale Festival.
When to Go to Hermanus Whale
The Hermanus Whale Festival typically takes place in late September. If you can't make it to the Festival, the whale-watching season runs from June to December, with peak times between August and October, where sightings are almost guaranteed to take place daily.
Places to Stay Nearby
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With its central location, The St James is within easy reach of most tourist attractions and business addresses in St James.All hotel's guestrooms have all ... 0 miles away
The Villa St James is located in St James making it one of the best hotels to stay at while in town.The Villa St James ... 0 miles away
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While You're There - Tours and Trips Nearby
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Carpe Diem! Book to do this experience now!
Nestled between magnificent mountains and the sea, Hermanus offers some of the best shore-based whale-watching opportunities in the world (July to November). Visitors travel from ...
Starting from $59.28 per person.
Starting from $59.28 per person.
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Elsewhere on the Web
- Hermanus Whale Festival - WhaleFestival.co.za
- The Hermanus Whale Festival, the only Enviro-Arts festival in South Africa, is held annually to celebrate the return of the Southern Right whales to the waters of Walker Bay, our magnificent environment and the arrival of Spring!
- hermanus.co.za
- With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder that Hermanus has grown in size and popularity during the last decade.
- Hermanus Whale Festival Basic Info
- Sleepy little Hermanus goes big! Grab your family or friends and venture to this arty and fun festival which claims to be the only Enviro-Arts Festival in South Africa.
- Tourist Info for Hermanus
- With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder that Hermanus has grown in size and popularity during the last decade... info on where to stay, places to eat, currency, etc.
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