The Western Cape, arguably the most scenic and varied of South Africa's nine provinces, serves as a major drawcard for visitors to South Africa. Located in the southwest corner of the country, the province is blessed with stunning coastlines, breathtaking mountains, indigenous forests, historic wine estates and scorched stretches of strikingly beautiful semi-desert. Visitors can enjoy everything from the magnificent city of Cape Town with its iconic Table Mountain and gorgeous surrounding Winelands, to the exhilarating outdoor activities and spectacular natural scenery of the Garden Route, as well as the fynbos-covered sand dunes, sun-bleached beaches and remote fishing villages of the lesser-explored West Coast region. The Western Cape has just about everything that the rest of the country can offer, all rolled into one easy explorable destination.
Fringing the southwestern coast of South Africa, Gansbaai is a charming fishing town and a popular tourist destination in the Overberg area of the Western Cape. This renowned whale-watching mecca is home to the Marine Big 5 - namely the southern right whales, seals, penguins, dolphins, and great white sharks (in high density). Dubbed the ‘The Great White Shark Capital Of The World’, Gansbaai provides the chance to get up close and personal with these fascinating beasts, as well as several other activities. There's a host of marine adventures on offer, as well as the chance to learn about local heritage and culture and spot unique fauna and flora. Explore spectacular rugged landscapes via a network of scenic hiking trails offering phenomenal sunset views. Photographers will also enjoy the beautiful natural locations of De Kelders Beach, Pearly Beach, Uilkraal Valley, and Walker Bay Nature Reserve.
