The Walker Bay Nature Reserve In South Africa
Located to the southeast of Cape Town is the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, one of the protected areas to which it is worth taking an excursion. In fact, all the surroundings of the famous South African city are full of natural spaces of enormous interest. So, as it is difficult to choose, we will give you the reasons to go to Walker Bay.
The best time to do this excursion is the one that coincides with winter and spring in South Africa. Why? Because it is at this time when thousands of whales roam the shores.
One of the best places to see these fantastic animals is Walker Bay. That does not mean that the rest of the year is not worth visiting this place. Quite the opposite! We want to tell you everything that awaits you there.
Walker Bay Beaches and the Atlantic Ocean
For example, if you do this excursion to Walker Bay from Cape Town in summer, up to 22 kilometers of beaches bathed by the Atlantic Ocean await us.
Walker Bay is about 120 kilometers southeast of Cape Town, and getting there takes about an hour and a half to travel. By the way, if you are a surf lover, in Walker Bay you will find the ideal waves to practice your favorite sport.
The village of Hermanus
Well, if you visit the Walker Bay Nature Reserve in summer, it will be impossible not to go to the tourist town of Hermanus. A place full of tourist establishments. And this place is alive all year round, since it is very common to visit Hermanus in winter.
We have already advanced the reason. An exceptional event occurs there: from the mainland it is possible to see humpback whales. You can see them a few meters from the coast.
Although it is true that it is advisable to see them from the promenade, it is also very interesting to take a boat and sail out to sea. Thus, the majesty of these gigantic aquatic mammals is much better appreciated.
And finally, there is another highly demanded option for whale watching in Walker Bay. There are those who hire a plane to fly over the waters and contemplate these animals from the heights.
More marine fauna
Whales are not the only marine animals to be seen on a trip to Walker Bay. There are other sightings equally shocking and friendly. For example, you have to mention the penguins at Stone Point.
But the excursions in search of stronger sensations are more famous. From Hermanus you can embark to sail to places where there are sharks. There, there are those who dare to dive inside a cage to see the huge sharks prowling a few feet away.
In mainland
Back on the mainland, Walker Bay and towns like De Kelders or Hermanus offer many attractions. Especially the latter, with its very long promenade and its museum dedicated to its origins as a fishing village.
In addition, you can always take hiking excursions through a privileged nature. The beaches are ideal for walking and discovering dune areas. Or if you prefer, one can go into the forests that close these sandy areas. This Walker Bay Nature Reserve includes both land and sea territory.
South Africa’s natural wealth
In short, whoever spends a few days on vacation in Cape Town and wants to disconnect, a trip to Walker Bay is a good option. Although it is true that the nature reserves in the vicinity of the big city are many.
In this sense, the Cape of Good Hope should be mentioned. Also other reserves almost neighboring to Walker Bay, such as the Fernkloof or Kogelberg reserves. You choose!
