Cape Peninsula Day Tour: Penguins, Chapman's Peak & Cape Point in One Day
See penguins on Boulders Beach, drive the famous Chapman's Peak, and stand at Cape Point’s wind-scoured headland—all in a single private day tour from Cape Town. This guide outlines what to expect and how to prepare.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for wind and sun
Cape winds change fast—bring a windproof shell plus sun protection even on cool days.
Book seal cruises separately
Hout Bay seal boat trips are usually paid locally and run weather-dependent—reserve early in high season.
Bring payment for park fees and lunch
Table Mountain National Park and Boulders Beach may charge entry; carry card or cash for eateries in Simon’s Town.
Start early to avoid traffic and wind
Morning departures reduce time stuck in coastal traffic and improve conditions before the southeasterly wind builds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kalk Bay harbour for tidal pools and fresh fish stalls
- •Noordhoek Beach and the Common for long, wind-swept walks away from crowds
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Cape fur seal
Conservation Note
Boulders Beach and Cape Point are managed sites within Table Mountain National Park; visitors should stay on boardwalks and follow signage to protect fragile habitats and endangered penguins.
The Cape Peninsula has been a crucial waypoint on global sea routes for centuries and Simon’s Town retains a long naval and fishing heritage.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against strong southeasterly gusts common along the peninsula.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Helps on rocky viewpoints and the wooden boardwalks at Boulders Beach.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
Intense sun near the water can cause rapid sun exposure even on breezy days.
Zoom camera or binoculars
Useful for photographing penguins, seals and distant headlands without disturbing wildlife.
Common Questions
Is the penguin colony at Boulders Beach accessible?
Yes—boardwalks allow close but non-intrusive views of the African penguins and are designed to protect the colony while enabling visitors to observe them safely.
Is the seal cruise included in the tour price?
Boat trips from Hout Bay to Duiker Island are usually optional and paid locally; they are weather-dependent and can last around 30–45 minutes.
Are there entry fees for Cape Point or Boulders Beach?
Both are inside Table Mountain National Park and typically charge entrance fees—bring card or cash for on-site payment or check ticketing policies ahead of time.
Is this tour wheelchair/stroller friendly?
Many viewpoints and the vehicle transport are accessible, but some coastal paths and boardwalks have steps or uneven sections; confirm specific accessibility needs with the operator before booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–8 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires short, easy walks and ability to board a vehicle.
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