Watch penguins and rock hyraxes in Betty's Bay

If you want to experience African penguins in their natural environment but avoid the crowds at Boulders Beach, Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay is the perfect alternative. This quiet reserve on the wild coastline is home to a large penguin colony that you can watch from close up along wooden walkways. The animals waddle over the rocks, dive into the sea or sunbathe lazily on the shore – all without the dense throng of other tourists.

Alongside the penguins there is another special surprise: rock hyraxes, also called dassies, which are usually found in rocky terrain. Seeing them sunbathing among the rocks right on the beach or scurrying over the stones is a rare sight. While you enjoy the view of the sea, you can watch them at your leisure – an experience you’ll find in only a few places in South Africa.

Betty’s Bay is about 1.5 hours from Cape Town and is a worthwhile stop on the Garden Route. There is a small entrance fee, but the Wild Card is accepted – ideal for anyone planning to visit several national parks in South Africa.