Cape of Good Hope Day Tour: Penguins, Ostriches & Cape Point Views from Cape Town
Spend a full day from Cape Town following the dramatic coastal road to Cape Point — see African penguins at Boulders Beach, drive Chapman’s Peak, and encounter ostriches and fynbos at the reserve. Card payments and a charged camera are essential.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layered windproof clothing
Coastal winds are strong and changeable; a lightweight, windproof jacket keeps you comfortable during cliff-top walks.
Use card payment only
Reserve entrances and Boulders Beach operate card-only payment systems—carry a credit/debit card for fees and tolls.
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails around Cape Point and penguin viewing areas include uneven rock and boardwalks—supportive shoes reduce slips and fatigue.
Protect your camera and binoculars
Seabird and coastal wildlife are best viewed with a tele lens or binoculars; a quick-dry case protects gear from sea spray.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Chapman’s Peak lookout early morning for solitary views and bird flight lines
- •Simon’s Town craft market and seafood stalls for fresh catches and local ceramics
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Ostrich
Conservation Note
The region protects endemic fynbos and vulnerable species like the African penguin; visitors are asked to stick to boardwalks and avoid feeding wildlife to minimize disturbance.
The Cape was a pivotal waypoint on the sea route to the East; sailors renamed the once-feared ‘Cape of Storms’ to the Cape of Good Hope after opening trade routes to India.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks cold coastal winds during cliff-top visits and sunrise/sunset stops.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provides traction on boardwalks, rocky paths and dune sand.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps view penguins, shorebirds and distant wildlife without disturbing them.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keep hydrated; bottled water is supplied but a refillable bottle reduces waste.
Common Questions
Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
Entrance fees for Cape Point, Boulders Beach and private game areas are typically not included and must be paid locally by card.
Is pickup and drop-off provided?
Pickup from Cape Town hotels, guesthouses or the port is usually available—confirm your pickup point when booking.
Can I see penguins year-round?
Yes, African penguins are present year-round at Boulders Beach though breeding activity peaks seasonally; viewing conditions vary with weather.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour is family-friendly and marked as physically easy, but some sites have stairs or uneven paths; infant seats are available on request.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with average mobility; involves short walks up to 60 minutes and getting on/off the vehicle.
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