Agulhas National Park

For centuries, the seas off South Africa’s Cape were notorious for the danger they posed to ships. Now, the dramatic coastline sets the scene for adventure at Agulhas National Park.

Visiting Agulhas National Park is a great opportunity to see an array of wildlife – both on land and in the ocean. Spot playful dolphins and mesmerising whales just beyond the breakers, while shore-side, beach-dwelling African penguins and Cape fur seals offer a more close-up experience. Cape mountain zebra, bontebok and eland are just a few of the antelope species in the park.

Also on display throughout Agulhas National Park is a hugely diverse range of flora, making up part of the Agulhas Plain. 100 endemic species make up just part of the over 2000 species of plants showing off in a dazzling mix of colours. Elim fynbos can be found nowhere else but for a few areas in the park – it’s so specialised and rare that all together, it takes up the smallest land mass in South Africa.

Aside from birdwatching and whale watching, Agulhas is also a sought-after fishing destination with rock or deep-sea fishing experiences available. It’s also worth seeking out the Stone Age Rasperpunt Fish Traps, ancient man-made formations resulting from the build-up of seashell ‘walls’, making it easier for ancient anglers to trap their fish.    

There are also several hiking trails on offer. These walks are exceptional, with routes that wind along the windswept, unspoiled seashore, showcasing the exquisite beauty of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes. Take a moment to meditate on the explorers who tried, and failed to conquer the coastline, and the many shipwrecks that lie beneath. 

There are also several pristine beaches to visit, spread along the rocky strand and interspersed with tidal pools that are home to a variety of marine life, and the ‘near threatened’ African Black Oyster Catcher – be mindful, these birds sometimes nest on the trails, which leaves their eggs vulnerable. 

Accommodation options at Agulhas National Park are tailored to suit all budgets and tastes, from rest camps and chalets that provide a comfortable self-catering base from which to explore area, to the luxurious Agulhas House, with its four en-suite bedrooms and private pool.