Boulders Beach Penguin Encounter: Full-Day Private Tour from Cape Town
Spend a day along the Cape Peninsula watching African penguins, exploring granite-sculpted beaches and driving one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes. This private full-day tour from Cape Town combines wildlife viewing at Boulders Beach with stops at Hout Bay, Simon’s Town and Muizenberg.
The Experience
Before You Go
Respect viewing rules
Stay on boardwalks and behind viewing barriers—do not touch or feed the penguins to avoid disturbing breeding behavior and spreading disease.
Sun and wind protection
Bring SPF 30+ sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and a windproof layer; coastal weather can shift quickly even on sunny days.
Bring a mid-zoom lens or binoculars
A 70–200mm equivalent or compact binoculars gets close-up behavior shots without approaching the birds.
Shoes for sand and boardwalks
Wear closed-toe walking shoes or sturdy sandals—the beach and paths can be uneven and sandy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Chapman’s Peak lookouts for staggered coastal panoramas without long hikes
- •Simon's Town waterfront seafood stalls for fresh yellowtail and local fish dishes
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Cape fur seal
Conservation Note
Boulders lies within the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area; visitors are asked to follow boardwalk protocols and avoid disturbing nesting penguins to minimize human impact.
Simon’s Town developed as a strategic naval harbour under the Dutch and British; the coastline’s fishing and maritime culture remains visible in harbors and markets.
What to Bring
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protects from strong coastal sun during midday stops.
Windproof jacketEssential
Useful for chilly Atlantic breezes and overcast days along Chapman’s Peak.
Mid-zoom camera lens or binoculars
Helps capture penguin behavior and distant seals without disturbing wildlife.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Needed for sand, boardwalks and short rocky walks at lookout points.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is included?
The private tour lasts about 8 hours and typically includes private transport, bottled water and air-conditioned vehicle; park admission to the penguin viewing boardwalk is often included depending on booking details.
Can I swim with the penguins?
No — penguins are protected and human contact or feeding is prohibited; swimming near them is discouraged to avoid stress and potential disease transmission.
Are children and strollers accommodated?
Yes — the tour and beach are family-friendly; boardwalks are stroller-accessible but some sandy paths may be difficult with a pram.
When is the best time to see penguins active?
Late morning to early afternoon is often best when birds come and go between the sea and nesting areas; cooler mornings can also be active but sightings vary with tides and breeding season.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Simon’s Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks on sand and boardwalks and getting in/out of a private vehicle.
Ready to Explore Simon’s Town?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now