With a our last remaining hours in southwestern South Africa we decided to attempt kayaking with the whales one more time. We woke up to a clear morning and calm waters. Our 1.5 hours kayaking in ocean was really amazing. Whales are curious creatures and will actually swim towards you to check you out. This is great fun until you realize how large these animals really are. Our guide told us stories of whales breaching within a hundred feet of kayakers (actually had picture of this), and whales coming up directly under kayaks and lifting them up. Although sort of hoping for this adrenaline rush, our experience was perfect. We were able to view 2 whales simultaneously swimming only about ~200 feet on the right and left of our kayak.

In addition to whale viewing we paddled through kelp forests. When looking down into the water these plants sort of look like palm trees swaying in the ocean waves. Unlike fresh water seaweed, kelp is actually really tough and rubbery feeling (and not at all slimy). Among the kelp forest was sleeping floating seals. They assume the most awkward position, so when looking at the pictures look closely as you can only see their flippers forming a sort of O. It was fun to watch them as they woke up from their slumber as we approached and swam among the kayaks.

We have had such an amazing time in South Africa, but are really excited for our venture further inland to Zambia for a taste of a more authentic "Africa".

September 3rd
Our Clumsy arrival into Africa

September 4th
Driving around

September 5th
Robben Island & Nelson Mandela Gateway

September 6th - 7th
Cape Town

September 8th
Stellenbosch & winery tours

September 9th - 11th
Hermanus / Whales & White Sharks

September 13 & 14th
Wilderness (town's name)

September 15th
Back in Hermanus

South Africa Country Summary