Cape Peninsula Coastal Highlights: Cape Point, Bo-Kaap & Boulders Penguin Tour
Spend a full day tracing Cape Town’s coastal edge — from the colorful streets of Bo‑Kaap through Chapman's Peak to a seal cruise and the African penguins at Boulders Beach. This accessible, eight‑hour tour pairs easy walks with high‑impact wildlife viewing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layered wind protection
The Cape can go from calm to gale within an hour; a windproof shell keeps you comfortable on viewpoints and the boat.
Use the boardwalks
At Boulders and Cape Point stay on designated paths to protect habitat and get the best views safely.
Hydrate and snack
The tour is eight hours with short stops; carry a reusable bottle and small snacks between meal breaks.
Protect camera gear
Salt spray from the boat and sand at beaches can damage lenses—use a protective cover or dry bag.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Maiden's Cove viewpoint for quieter morning light and direct views of the Twelve Apostles
- •Noordhoek Beach shipwreck viewpoint — dramatic at low tide and less crowded outside peak hours
Wildlife
- •African Penguin
- •Cape Fur Seal
Conservation Note
The penguin colony and seal populations face pressures from overfishing, oil pollution and habitat disturbance; visitors help by staying on boardwalks, not feeding wildlife and minimizing plastic waste.
The Cape Peninsula is steeped in maritime history — from early Portuguese navigators to a long naval presence in Simon’s Town — and Bo‑Kaap reflects Cape Malay cultural heritage from Southeast Asian settlers.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks the strong coastal gusts encountered at viewpoints and on the boat.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Stable grip for boardwalks, beaches and short hikes around Cape Point.
Binoculars
Helps spot penguins, seals and seabirds from viewpoints and the boat.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Protection from strong sun during midday stops along exposed shoreline.
Common Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes — pickup and drop‑off from Cape Town accommodations within the specified pickup radius are included; exact time is confirmed the day before.
Are the penguin and seal encounters up close?
Both species are best viewed from boardwalks and the boat; the tour avoids direct contact and follows viewing distances to protect wildlife.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour lists wheelchair accessible options for transport and some surfaces, but access to boardwalks, boats or lighthouse paths may be limited—check with the operator if you require full accessibility accommodations.
What should I wear for the boat to Seal Island?
Wear layers and a windproof layer; conditions can be colder and spray‑wet on the water, so avoid porous fabrics and bring a small waterproof cover for electronics.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Basic mobility and stamina for several short walks, stairs and standing on a boat; suitable for most fitness levels.
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