Hermanus and Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Acres of undisturbed wilderness meet the ocean in the Hermanus and Grootbos regions.  Just 30 minutes away from each other, these two destinations are prime for nature lovers. Imagine watching a massive whale breach the ocean’s surface and exploring during bush walks through pristine habitats, spotting an incredible array of birdlife.

Must-Visit Areas in Hermanus and Grootbos

Outdoor enthusiasts will be in paradise! From forest walks and exploring caves where the ancient Khoi San lived to relaxing on a Blue Flag beach, here are a few top spots to visit during your South Africa holiday:

Milkwood Forest: A Walk Through Ancient Trees

Picture this: a forest of trees, hundreds of years old, with twisted branches reaching up into the canopy above. Sunlight streams through, dappling the moss-covered trunks. Birdsong is all around you as you walk through this enchanting setting. The milkwood forest is just one environment you can explore in Grootbos – there are hikes and walks in a variety of settings, from mountain terrain to fynbos lands, that suit every fitness level.

Klipgat Cave: Where the Khoi San Dwelled

During a coastal safari in Grootbos, not only will you be able to go on boat trips to see the marine Big Five (great white sharks, southern right whales, bottlenose dolphins, Cape fur seals, and African penguins), but you’ll also have the opportunity to wander through ancient caves. At the bottom of the limestone cliffs of De Kelders you’ll find Klipgat Cave, a World Heritage Site. Overlooking the ocean, this site is where the Khoi San lived – an incredible insight into African Stone Age history.

Grotto Beach: Blue Flag Beauty

The powdery white sand of Grotto Beach, Hermanus, stretches for almost 18 km/11 mi – this is a stunning destination for a leisurely walk or relaxing on the shore, simply gazing at the waves a few steps away. Surfing is a popular watersport here during winter when the waves are bigger, as well as bodyboarding.

Hermanus Cliff Path: Whale Watching Walk

This famous route winds along the coast; starting at New Harbour in Hermanus, it will take you to Grotto Beach. Along the way, you’ll come across benches to take a break, watch the whales in the distance, and enjoy ocean views. The entire path is protected within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, renowned for its stunning fynbos. As you meander down the path, you may spot sugarbirds and sunbirds flittering about the colourful blooms, as well as small antelope species.

When’s the Best Time to Go to Hermanus and Grootbos?

The best time for Hermanus whale watching is between June and November. During this time of the year, southern right whales migrate to the waters of Hermanus to breed and nurse their young. Watch by land, air, or boat as these gentle giants breach and lobtail. This period also sees fynbos bloom with colourful flowers, further adding to the beauty of nature walks in Grootbos. September to October, when the rains subside and the temperatures warm up, is the ideal time for wildlife encounters.

Wildlife Found in Hermanus and Grootbos

Among the southern right whale population off the shores of Hermanus, you may also spot humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and dolphins. Hermanus is also home to a colony of African penguins you can visit.

In Grootbos Nature Reserve, there are 118 bird species to see during birdwatching expeditions. There are a variety of different environments to go birding, from forests to coastlines to estuaries. The Cape sugarbird, black harrier, oystercatchers, and Knysna woodpecker are just a few species to keep an eye out for.

Fernkloof Nature Reserve in Hermanus is home to a variety of bird species as well as mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. While exploring here, you may come across grey rheboks, Cape grysboks, klipspringers, baboons, mongooses, and dassies. Raptors are also spotted here, such as jackal buzzards and black eagles.

How to Get to Hermanus and Grootbos

Hermanus is just a two-hour road transfer from the hub of Cape Town’s city centre and 30 minutes from Grootbos.