Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach Penguins — Full-Day Tour from Cape Town
Drive towering coastal cliffs, meet African penguins on a sheltered beach and taste Cape Malay flavours on this action-packed full-day tour from Cape Town. Expect short coastal walks, boardwalks through the penguin colony and panoramic ocean lookouts.
The Experience
Before You Go
Watch for baboons
Baboons are habituated to human food—keep windows closed at viewpoint stops and store snacks in sealed bags; never feed them.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Paths at Cape Point and the ostrich farm include uneven rock and short climbs—sturdy shoes improve comfort and safety.
Bring binoculars
Handheld optics help spot dolphins, whales (seasonal) and distant seal colonies from Chapman's Peak and Cape Point lookouts.
Respect the penguins
Stay on the wooden boardwalk at Boulders Beach to avoid trampling nests and to keep a safe viewing distance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early morning standpoints on Chapman's Peak for low crowds and long light
- •The Bo‑Kaap cooking demonstrations in local cafés for Cape Malay recipes
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •chacma baboon
Conservation Note
African penguins are a threatened species; boardwalks and regulated viewing at Boulders Beach help minimize disturbance, and visitors are encouraged to avoid feeding wildlife and to take litter away.
The Cape Peninsula has deep maritime history—these headlands shaped global sea routes during the Age of Sail and the Bo‑Kaap reflects Cape Malay settlement and cultural fusion.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Supports rocky shorelines, boardwalks and short climbs at viewpoints.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)Essential
Sun and wind on exposed headlands can be intense even on cool days.
Light windproof layerEssential
Coastal winds and sudden microclimates at Cape Point make a wind layer useful year-round.
Binoculars or zoom camera
Improves wildlife viewing—penguins, seals, dolphins and seabirds are easier to see from lookouts.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is the itinerary?
The tour runs about 7–8 hours and typically includes Bo‑Kaap, Chapman's Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Point/Good Hope, an ostrich farm visit and Boulders Beach penguin colony, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Cape Town.
Can I swim or snorkel at the stops?
Some beaches like Maiden's Cove are calm enough for swimming in summer, but Atlantic currents can be cold and strong; snorkeling opportunities are seasonal and often dependent on weather—ask the guide about safe spots.
Are children and seniors able to join?
Yes; the tour notes it is suitable for all fitness levels. Activities are mostly short walks and vehicle transfers, but travelers should be able to manage steps and short climbs at viewpoints.
What wildlife should I expect and can I approach them?
You can expect African penguins at Boulders, chacma baboons near roadside lookouts, and seals/dolphins offshore (seasonal). Keep a respectful distance and remain on designated paths—do not touch or feed wildlife.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–8 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; day includes several short walks (10–45 minutes) with modest elevation and some steps.
Ready to Explore Cape Town?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now