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HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaRepublic of South AfricaWhalers route
File:L'Agulhas.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Whalers route Road Trip

Swellendam - Cape Angulhas - Gansbaai - Gordon's Bay

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Beach Beach
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Whalers route Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages3 km332 h/stage1.7

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Whalers route Road Trip in Republic of South Africa?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 54EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 55EUR eat & more 48EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 153EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 207EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 81EUR drive & more 63EUR sleep & more 110EUR eat & more 72EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 245EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 326EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 144EUR drive & more 75EUR sleep & more 187EUR eat & more 96EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 358EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 502EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 225EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 55EUR eat & more 48EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 191EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 416EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Whalers route Road Trip Itinerary

The Whalers Route Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in South Africa. Starting in the town of Swellendam and ending in Gordon's Bay, the 332 km route takes you through the towns of Cape Angulhas and Gansbaai. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Southern Cape coast, as well as the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins in the ocean. The best time of year to take this road trip is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and the days are long. The roads are mostly in good condition, although some parts are winding, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. The Whalers Route Road Trip is an experience that can be enjoyed by all drivers, no matter their skill level or budget. From the breathtaking views to the chance to spot whales and dolphins in the ocean, this road trip will provide memories that will last a lifetime.
number of days 1 number of days
route length 332 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Swellendam

Distance 332 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: fast 99.7 kWh Airports ROD
[detailsContainer]
Swellendam, located in the Republic of South Africa, is the perfect starting point for the "Whalers Route Road Trip". This picturesque town is situated in the Overberg region, along the N2 Highway, and is the third oldest town in South Africa. Swellendam offers plenty of interesting sights for visitors to explore. The Marloth Nature Reserve, Bontebok National Park, and De Hoop Nature Reserve are all great places to spot wild animals and experience the beauty of the area. The Drostdy Museum and the Dutch Reformed Church are also worth a visit to learn more about the town's history. Visitors coming to Swellendam by air will be able to take advantage of the Cape Town International Airport (IATA: CPT), which is the closest international airport. Car rentals are available at this airport, allowing travelers to begin their road trip in comfort and convenience. The "Whalers Route Road Trip" promises to be an exciting journey across the Overberg region, and Swellendam is an ideal starting point. With its beautiful nature and rich history, Swellendam will provide a unique and unforgettable experience for any traveler.

1 Swellendam - Cape Angulhas

Distance 116 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: fast 34.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome to the Swellendam to Cape Angulhas road trip! This 116km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, but you’ll want to take your time to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Start your trip in Swellendam, the third oldest town in South Africa, and explore its many historical sites, such as the Drostdy Museum and the Marloth Nature Reserve. From there, continue to the coastal town of Struisbaai, where you can enjoy the white sand beaches of the Indian Ocean and take a boat ride to see the seals and penguins. As you drive along the coast, make sure to stop at Arniston to admire its unique fishing village, and then make your way to the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, the southernmost point of the African continent. Finally, explore the Agulhas National Park and its many hiking trails before concluding your trip in Cape Agulhas. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

2 Cape Angulhas - Gansbaai

Distance 90 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: modest 23.5 kWh View map Itinerary
stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road junction of road trips accommodation options
[detailsContainer]
Start your amazing road trip in Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of the African continent, and take a journey of 90km to the town of Elim. As you drive, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscape and the vast open fields. Make sure you keep your eyes on the road, as the scenic road will take you past some of the most interesting places to visit. The first stop of your journey will be the Elim Mission Station, a historic place of the Moravian Church, and the Elim Art Gallery, where you can find some of the most beautiful pieces of art. The next stop is the Elim Dunes, where you can take a walk and explore the amazing sand dunes. Further down the road, you will find the Gansbaai Harbour, an important fishing port and the home of some of the best seafood in South Africa. Your road trip will end in Gansbaai, a small fishing town with a unique charm. Here, you can visit the Gansbaai Harbour, the Gansbaai Museum, and the Gansbaai Nature Reserve. All in all, this road trip will take you less than two hours, and you will have plenty of time to explore the sights and sounds of these fascinating places along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary for this stage of your journey.

3 Gansbaai - Gordon's Bay

Distance 126 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 37.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Gansbaai, Republic of South Africa. Take a drive along the beautiful scenic road for 126 km and fewer than 2 hours to reach Hermanus. This small coastal town offers a variety of activities from whale watching to shark cage diving. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and explore the unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. As you continue your journey, you will come across many winding roads that offer stunning views of the countryside. Finally, you will reach Gordon’s Bay, where you can relax and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean. Be sure to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available such as hiking, swimming, and surfing. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

  Gordon's Bay

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Gordon's Bay is a picturesque coastal town in the Republic of South Africa, located at the end of the famous Whalers route Road Trip. The drive from Cape Town to Gordon's Bay is a stunning journey, with breathtaking views of the coast, dramatic mountains, and a variety of wildlife. Once you arrive in Gordon's Bay, there is no shortage of things to do and see. Visitors can explore the charming harbor and the nearby Bikini Beach – a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The nearby Sir Lowry's Pass is well worth a visit, offering spectacular views of the area. Nature lovers can take in the beauty of the nearby nature reserves, such as the Kogelberg Nature Reserve and Steenbras Nature Reserve. For history buffs, the Gordon's Bay Historical Walk is the perfect way to explore the town's past. The walk takes visitors to a variety of historical sites, including the old lighthouse and the ruins of the old whaling station. There is also the Gordon's Bay Museum, which offers a wide range of information about the town's history and culture. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Cape Town International Airport (CPT). From there, travelers can make the short drive to Gordon's Bay. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting road trip, Gordon's Bay has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of things to do and see, it's the perfect end point for the Whalers route Road Trip.

Whalers route Road Trip at a glance

Facts for safer driving in Republic of South Africa

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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