Swim With Penguins at Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Visitors to South Africa’s stunning Boulders Beach Penguin Colony can enjoy a truly unique encounter with the country’s beloved African penguins. This 5-hour activity offers a guided tour, the chance to swim alongside the playful birds, and breathtaking coastal views. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – guests can also explore the surrounding areas, capturing a lifetime of memories in Muizenberg Beach, Kalk Bay, and Simons Town. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Dive in and discover the wonders that await at Boulders Beach.

Key Points

• Visitors can swim alongside African penguins at the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, a protected haven within Table Mountain National Park.
• The activity includes a guided tour to observe the penguins’ behaviors and nesting in the boulders, as well as scenic views of Boulders Beach.
• The 5-hour tour also features photo stops at Muizenberg Beach, coastal towns like Kalk Bay and Simons Town, and the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive.
• Guests have the opportunity to explore Noordhoek Farm Village, a restored historic village with boutique shops and guided walking tours.
• The all-inclusive package offers convenient pick-up service and hassle-free booking, with pricing options starting from £59.91 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Visitors can swim with the iconic African penguins at the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, a unique 5-hour activity that allows them to get up close and personal with these charming seabirds.

Guests will enjoy a photo stop at Muizenberg Beach before passing by coastal towns like Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, and Simons Town.

At the Boulders Penguin Colony, they’ll have the opportunity to take photos, join a guided tour, swim with the penguins, and soak in the scenic views.

After lunch and free time in Simons Town, the tour heads to Noordhoek Farm Village and Chapman’s Peak Drive for more photo ops and sightseeing.

It’s an immersive experience that brings travelers face-to-face with South Africa’s beloved penguins.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a photo stop at Muizenberg Beach, allowing guests a 15-minute opportunity to capture the picturesque coastal scenery.

It then continues along the South African coastline, passing through the quaint towns of Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, and Simons Town.

The highlight of the itinerary is the visit to the Boulders Penguin Colony, where guests can spend around 2 hours exploring the area. This includes a guided tour, the chance to swim with the African penguins, and taking in the stunning scenic views.

After the penguin encounter, the tour heads to Simons Town for lunch, free time, and shopping.

The final stops are at Noordhoek Farm Village and Chapman’s Peak Drive, allowing for more photo opportunities and sightseeing.

Photo Stops

After exploring the Boulders Penguin Colony, the tour makes several photo stops along the way, allowing guests ample opportunities to capture the stunning scenery.

The first of these is at Muizenberg Beach, where participants can spend 15 minutes immortalizing the picturesque coastal landscapes.

Next, the tour passes by the charming seaside towns of Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, and Simons Town, providing more chances to snap photos.

At Noordhoek Farm Village, guests can take a guided tour and photograph the quaint country setting.

The final photo stop is at the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive, where breathtaking ocean vistas await.

These strategic photo opportunities ensure guests leave with lifetime memories of their South African adventure.

Boulders Penguin Colony

At the heart of this Cape Peninsula excursion lies the Boulders Penguin Colony, a renowned haven where visitors can observe the captivating African penguins up close. Situated within the Table Mountain National Park, this protected area offers a unique opportunity to witness these charismatic seabirds in their natural habitat, as they waddle along the shores, nest in the sheltered boulders, and gracefully dive into the cool waters.

The excursion includes a guided tour, allowing guests to learn about the penguins’ fascinating behaviors and conservation efforts. Highlights of the visit include:

1. Observing the penguins’ daily activities from designated viewing platforms.
2. Enjoying scenic vistas of the picturesque Boulders Beach.
3. Opportunities to swim alongside the penguins in the designated swimming area.
4. Gaining insight into the challenges faced by these endangered species.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch and Shopping

Typically, visitors spend about 1.5 hours exploring the charming town of Simons Town, where they can enjoy a delightful lunch and browse a variety of local shops and boutiques. The town’s bustling waterfront area offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual seafood eateries to upscale restaurants serving fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. After lunch, visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, popping into galleries, artisan shops, and boutiques showcasing the work of talented local artists and craftspeople. Whether seeking unique souvenirs, handmade jewelry, or stylish apparel, there’s something for all in Simons Town.

Dining Options	Shopping Experiences
Seafood Eateries	Local Art Galleries
Upscale Restaurants	Artisan Craft Shops
Casual Cafes	Boutique Clothing Stores
Waterfront Bistros	Specialty Gift Shops

Noordhoek Farm Village

The tour then ventures to the charming Noordhoek Farm Village, where visitors can explore the rustic buildings, browse the artisanal shops, and learn about the local history and culture through a guided tour.

The farm village offers a glimpse into the region’s pastoral heritage, featuring:

1. A collection of restored historic structures, including a blacksmith forge, old barn, and traditional Cape Dutch cottages.
2. Boutique shops showcasing the work of local artisans, from handcrafted pottery to artisanal cheeses and preserves.
3. A guided walking tour that provides insights into the village’s origins and the lives of its past residents.
4. Scenic photo opportunities amidst the picturesque setting of rolling hills and natural landscapes.

Chapman’s Peak Drive

Winding along the rugged cliffs of the Cape Peninsula, Chapman’s Peak Drive offers visitors a breathtaking scenic drive that showcases the region’s natural grandeur. Travelers can expect a guided tour and photo stops to fully enjoy the dramatic vistas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains.

Feature	Description
Lookout Points	Numerous pull-offs offer panoramic views of the coast
Scenic Views	Dramatic landscapes with towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and azure waters
Difficulty Level	Moderate, with some steep and winding sections
Length	Approximately 9km long
Duration	20-30 minutes to fully experience the drive

This scenic drive is a must-do on any Cape Town itinerary, providing an opportunity to witness the region’s breathtaking beauty and natural wonder.

Pricing and Booking

To book the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony experience, visitors can choose from a range of pricing options starting from £59.91 per person. Reservations can be made in advance with the option to pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.

The all-inclusive package covers an air-conditioned vehicle, an experienced tour guide, bottled water, the Chapman’s Peak Tollgate fee, and the entry fee for Boulders Beach and the African Penguins (£175/person).

The tour offers a convenient pick-up service from accommodations or the VIDA E CAFFÈ KLOOF STREET within 13km of the Cape Town CBD or Camps Bay.

Visitors can look forward to an unforgettable encounter with the charming African penguins and the stunning natural scenery of the Cape Peninsula.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for Swimming With the Penguins?

The dress code for swimming with penguins is typically swimwear, as you will be entering the water. It’s recommended to wear lightweight, quick-drying clothing that won’t weigh you down in the water. Proper footwear, like water shoes, is also advisable.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests can bring their own snacks and drinks for the tour. However, it’s recommended to avoid bringing anything that could disturb the penguins or the environment. The tour includes bottled water, so additional drinks may not be necessary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Swimming Activity?

There are no age restrictions for the swimming activity at the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. Visitors of all ages can participate in this unique experience, which allows them to get up close and personal with the African penguins.

Can I Rent Any Equipment for the Swimming Session?

Participants can rent snorkeling equipment such as masks and fins at Boulders Beach to enhance their swimming experience with the penguins. However, wetsuit rentals are not available on-site, so visitors should come prepared with their own swimwear.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

There are a few safety precautions to be aware of. Swimmers should stay a safe distance from the penguins, avoid touching them, and listen closely to the guide’s instructions. Proper swimming attire and footwear are recommended to avoid slips or injuries.

Recap

The Boulders Beach Penguin Colony offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Visitors can swim alongside the adorable African penguins, explore the scenic coastal haven, and capture lifetime memories of this South African adventure.

With a guided tour, photo stops, and opportunities to visit nearby attractions, this 5-hour activity is a must-do for anyone visiting the area.

Booking is available, so don’t miss the chance to create cherished memories at the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony.

You can check if your dates are available here: