Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Cape Peninsula Seal Island, Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach Penguins Day Tour from Cape Town

Cape Peninsula Seal Island, Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach Penguins Day Tour from Cape Town

Travel the Cape Peninsula in a day: ferry past seal colonies, walk boardwalks among African penguins, and stand where two oceans collide at Cape Point. This shared day tour blends wildlife viewing, coastal drives and local history with practical logistics for a full, photographic day out of Cape Town.

Cape Town, Western Cape
9 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring layers and wind protection

Coastal wind can be strong even on sunny days—pack a windbreaker and a warm mid-layer for viewpoints and ferry decks.

Motion-sickness prevention

If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before the optional Hout Bay ferry to Seal Island or sit mid-boat and face forward.

Respect wildlife distances

At Boulders and Seal Island viewing areas stay on boardwalks and follow guide instructions to avoid stressing penguins and seals.

Carry cash for optional costs

Ferry to Seal Island, the Cape Point funicular and some craft market stalls accept cash or card—bring some cash to speed transactions.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Stop at Noordhoek for panoramic long-beach views and a quieter coffee at Village Roast
  • Quick photo vantage on Chapman's Peak lookout away from main parking for clearer sea-ledge perspectives

Wildlife

  • Cape fur seal
  • African (jackass) penguin

Conservation Note

The Cape Peninsula is a biodiversity hotspot where visitors are asked to stay on boardwalks and avoid feeding wildlife; local conservation programs protect penguin breeding sites and marine habitats.

Simon’s Town developed as a naval and supply port under the Dutch East India Company and later the Royal Navy; Bo-Kaap preserves Cape Malay cultural heritage from settlers brought from the Indian Ocean rim.

What to Bring

Windproof jacketEssential

Blocks coastal gusts at viewpoints and on ferry decks.

Sturdy walking shoesEssential

Provides grip on sandy boardwalks, rocky paths and short steep sections at Cape Point.

Motion sickness meds or wristbands

Useful for the optional Hout Bay ferry and coastal road switchbacks.

Sunscreen & a wide-brim hatEssential

Protects from strong UV on open shoreline and during midday stops.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and what is included?

The tour runs about 9 hours and typically includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, guide commentary, water on board, and photo stops; optional extras like the Seal Island ferry and Cape Point funicular are at your own cost.

Will I see seals and penguins up close?

You’ll get good viewing from land boardwalks at Boulders Beach and from Hout Bay harbor; the ferry to Seal Island brings you closer to fur seal colonies but wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

Many stops have accessible viewpoints and the provider lists wheelchair-accessible transportation, but some sites (funicular, short rocky walks) may be limited—check specific pickup/drop-off and accessibility needs when booking.

What should I bring for lunch and purchases?

Lunch is typically in Simon’s Town at your own expense; bring cash or card for meals, craft markets, ferry and funicular rides—allow about an hour for lunch.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

9 hours

Location

Cape Town, Western Cape

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers comfortable with several short walks (10–60 minutes) and standing at viewpoints; minimal sustained climbing required

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Cape Town?

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