De Kelders
The cliff-and-cove shoreline at Gansbaai where southern right whales come within metres of the rocks in season.
Trip Role
Ideal stay
Best for
Our take
Skip the tourist traps in Hermanus and bring a pair of binoculars to these cliffs instead.
Skip the tourist traps in Hermanus and bring a pair of binoculars to these cliffs instead.
- Trip Role
- Worth a Detour
- Ideal Stay
- a morning
- Time Needed
- 2-3 hours
- Best For
- land-based whale watching and coastal hiking
- Go If
- You want to watch whales from the cliffs without the heavy crowds found in Hermanus.
Why it's worth your time
De Kelders offers a quiet, rugged alternative to the bustling whale-watching hubs nearby. The shoreline is defined by dramatic limestone cliffs and deep water, creating a prime vantage point for southern right whales during their calving season.
What we love
The sheer proximity of the whales to the cliff edge, which often makes boat tours feel redundant.
What to know
There are no lifeguards on duty here, and the currents along the Walker Bay coastline are notoriously strong.