The seaside town of Hermanus is once again honouring its most famous visitor, the Southern Right whale, at the 28th annual Hermanus Whale Festival from September 27 to 29, 2019. Voted one of the best destinations for watching marine animals worldwide by The Telegraph, Hermanus has become the South African authority for whale watching.
Thousands of eager whale-watchers and animal-lovers from all over the world flock to this quiet seaside town every year to witness the beauty of the southern right whale.
The Hermanus Whale Festival is the oldest and largest celebration on the South African whale coast calendar. With a wide range of activities, there is something for everyone at the festival. Activities throughout the festival revolve around education and conservation in a fun, interactive manner. The Eco-marine tent is consistently the largest attraction of the festival. While targeted towards children, everyone can benefit from the interactive and informative exhibitions on display.
Beyond the Eco-Marine Tent, there are many other activities to keep the family entertained. Join a kids treasure hunt, or eat your way through the festival at food stalls and restaurants. March down the popular Street Parade on Saturday morning alongside business floats, classic cars and community members or cheer on local artists as they take to the stage at the Coke Music marquee.
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Of course, the largest highlight of this festival is the whale itself. Typically completely black in colour, the Southern right whale is easily distinguishable for its double or v-shaped blowhole and lack of a dorsal fin. Southern right whales travel a far distance from Antartica to South Africa in search of warmer climates. Although they arrive in June, the southern right whale become much more visible from September to October, before leaving the Southern tip in December. Visitors are guaranteed to see a whale during this time. Even if you’re not looking, the blast of the only whale crier in the world’s kelp horn will alert you to their latest movements.
For more information, visit www.hermanuswhalefestival.co.za.
Picture: Hermanus Whale Festival / Hermanus.co.za / Instagram