Book the Whale Trail Online
Booking the Whale Trail Online, and embark on a remarkable 6-day, 5-night coastal wilderness hiking trail through one of the most stunning and ecologically diverse floral kingdoms on our planet. This exclusive adventure takes place in the Western Cape, South Africa, the only country that boasts such a unique floral kingdom. Due to its immense popularity, securing a booking for the Whale Trail Hike can be challenging, requiring advanced reservation of 1 year. If you have your heart set on experiencing this breathtaking trail in September 2020, we regret to inform you that it is fully booked as reservations for this year were made in September 2019. However, we are here to help! Share with us two or three preferred dates, and we will make every effort to secure a booking on your behalf. Your journey awaits!
Meet Your Guides
Cape Whale Trail Reservations offers an exceptional guiding experience that sets us apart. Our team comprises two expert guides who are FGASA (Field Guide Association of SA) qualified in marine, field, Cape Tourism, and S.A National Guide specialties. With their wealth of knowledge, they enhance your trail experience, making it all the more fascinating and enjoyable. Throughout the Whale Trail, you will be treated to three delicious meals daily, starting with a hearty breakfast at each hut. You’ll also receive a specially prepared lunch-pack for the trail, ensuring you stay energized. During your journey, take a break and revel in the tranquility of choice locations along the trail where you can indulge in tea and coffee. These breaks are an opportunity to relax and listen to captivating stories about the De Hoop area, including its history, intriguing characters, and legendary tales from before the Second World War. At the end of each day’s hike, celebrate your achievements with a refreshing cold beverage, followed by a delectable supper accompanied by a glass of wine. We take care of all the catering and trail logistics, allowing you to revel in the splendor of a truly unforgettable holiday.
Booking a Whale Trail online
Tour start
This is the perfect opportunity to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Join us at the charming Potberg Hut, nestled within the captivating De Hoop Nature Reserve. On your booked date, at 2:00 PM, make your way to this picturesque location where your journey awaits. Should you require transportation, we are more than happy to arrange it for you. Upon check-in, take a moment to immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings of the Potberg Hut. As the breathtaking Southern Cross illuminates the night sky, indulge in a traditional South African braai (barbecue) paired with exquisite regional wines. Prepare yourself for the hike ahead as our experienced guides provides a comprehensive briefing, ensuring you know exactly what to expect on the trail.
Whale watching
Booking the Whale Trail Online
DAY 1
Potberg to Cupidoskraal: 15 km
Day one of the Whale Trail.
Rise early and indulge in a hearty breakfast to fuel our Potberg ascent, the longest stretch of the trail spanning 15 km. As we make our way up, the air is filled with the fragrant scent of fynbos, showcasing the unique Erica and Protea species found exclusively in this region. Keep your eyes skyward and be on the lookout for the majestic Cape Vultures gracefully soaring through the Potberg thermals. Once we reach the summit, pause and take in the breathtaking view of the Brede River while enjoying well-deserved refreshments. It’s a moment to marvel at the beauty that surrounds us on this remarkable journey.
HIKE DAY 2
Cupidoskraal to Noetsie 15 km
On Day 2 of the Whale Trail Hike. Follow the winding path along the crest of the majestic Potberg mountain, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of the mountain fynbos. Marvel at the awe-inspiring vistas of the Indian Ocean and the flowing Breede River, painting a picture-perfect backdrop for your journey.As the trail leads you further, be prepared to enter a whole new realm of limestone hills adorned with unique fynbos varieties.
The stark contrast in scenery will leave you in awe, as you descend towards the enchanting bay of Noetsie. The magic of the coastline awaits, casting its spell on all who venture here.Indulge in the serenity of Noetsie hut, your sanctuary amidst nature’s embrace. This marks the start of our coastal escapade, offering a glimpse of what awaits in the remaining three nights of the hike. Allow yourself to be captivated by the charms of Noetsie as you continue this extraordinary journey.
The Thrilling Third Day
Journey from Noetsie to Hamerkop 7.8 km
So on day 3 of the Whale Hike, as we set off from the charming Noetsie huts, a mere 100 meters from the glistening sea. Prepare to be enthralled as we trace the trail that hugs the coastline, treating you to breathtaking sightings of majestic whales and playful dolphins dancing in the waters below. Brace yourself for an explorer’s dream come true, where ancient shell middens and hidden caves await, transforming this stretch of coastline into an enchanting paradise. Marvel at the artistic calcrete formations, adorning the pristine white beach like a magnificent sculpture park. We’ll pause for a delectable lunch at Stilgat, immersing ourselves in the tranquil rock pools and venturing into the enigmatic caves. Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring vistas that unfold from the dramatic cliffs.
Wine and whales
Book the Whale Trail Online
HIKE DAY 4
Hamerkop to Vaalkrans
10.5 km
On the fourth day of the Whale Trail Reservations, immerse yourself in the enchanting experience of walking along the pristine white beach sand. Keep an eye out for the elusive Oyster-catchers and elegant white-breasted cormorants as they bask in the warm sun. Marvel at the extraordinary intertidal pools, fascinating calcrete formations, and awe-inspiring blow holes. This section of the trail offers ample opportunities for swimming, so be sure to have your swimming costume at hand. As you make your way towards Vaalkrans, you’ll meander through diverse coastal vegetation, savoring the scenic beauty before reaching our remarkable accommodation nestled high above a captivating cave.
Book the Whale Trail online
DAY 5: The Final Day
Vaalkrans to Koppie Alleen, 7 km
Embark on an unforgettable adventure on the final day of the Whale Trail Hike. Traverse through enchanting coastal thickets, allowing yourself ample time to marvel at the breathtaking scenery and take refreshing dips in the Hippo Pools. As you venture forth, keep an eye out for the majestic whales that grace this area during their season, with up to 50 spotted at times. Concluding our journey at Koppie Alleen, we bid farewell to the nature’s gem, the De Hoop Nature Reserve, as a shuttle transports us back to Potberg where we retrieve our belongings. Join us on this remarkable expedition and explore the wonders of Cape Nature’s floral kingdom. Breede River, home to Southern Right Whales, holds fascinating tales.
It's a Steal
Due to its immense popularity, a booking on the De Hoop Whale Trail is very difficult to secure. Bookings are made 1 year in advance through Cape Nature. The trail is professionally guided by FGASA qualified marine, field and Cape tourism guides. Ralph has been guiding since 1992, together the guiding team has experience of 24 Whale Trails
Whale Trail Price until the end of 2023. Cape Nature may be increasing the price from 2024
R 13 000.00 per person includes 3 meals, 1 X cold beverage at the end of each day and one glass of wine. Professionally guided by FGASA qualified guides with the experience of 24 Whale Trails. At R 2166.00 per person per day - including accommodation, fully catered and guided, its a steal.
Because of the remoteness of the De Hoop Nature Reserve and the potential cell phone communication difficulty, we also carry a satellite phone, to enable helicopter evacuation in the case of a life threatening emergency.
