See African penguins up close on a half-day guided tour from Cape Town. Drive Chapman's Peak, stroll the boardwalks at Boulders Beach, and learn about local conservation and history with a knowledgeable guide.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step from the shaded parking into an Atlantic breeze that pushes cool salt across the boardwalk; behind a low dune, African penguins waddle and preen like small, black-and-white sentries of the shore.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; includes short, flat boardwalk walks and minimal walking between viewpoints.
Wildlife
History
Simon's Town has long been a naval and fishing hub; the Cape Malay community left a visible cultural imprint in areas like Bo-Kaap encountered on the drive.
Conservation
African penguins are endangered; visitor boardwalks and regulated viewing help reduce disturbance while supporting local conservation groups through entrance fees and education.
Reserve your spot on the Half Day Adventure Penguin Encounter at Boulders Beach today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Stick to the boardwalks
Fences protect nesting sites—stay on marked paths to avoid stressing penguins and to prevent fines.
Bring sun protection
Coastal sun and reflection from water mean sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are important even on cool days.
Use quiet, slow movements
Penguins are sensitive to sudden noise; keep voices low and avoid flash photography to observe natural behaviors.
Plan for tides
Low tide exposes more rock pools and feeding activity—ask your guide about optimal timing for wildlife viewing.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Protects feet on sandy, uneven boardwalks and granite surfaces.
Sunscreen and hat
Coastal sun and wind can cause sunburn quickly during midday.
summer
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps you observe penguin behavior without approaching nests.
Light windproof layer
The Atlantic can be cool and breezy, especially on Chapman’s Peak viewpoints.
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