Western Cape, South Africa
Hike rugged coastal cliffs, spot wild Cape fur seals, and explore ancient caves on this protected peninsula.
4.7 from 137 traveller reviews on Viator
Tickets & tours
Join a boat trip from Plettenberg Bay to view or snorkel with the seal colony.
Most bookedEnjoy a scenic boat ride to Robberg Nature reserve and marine protected area and Snorkel among bundles of playful fur seals!! Plettenberg bay, Garden Route, South...
Best valueWhat makes this tour unique is the seal interaction. They will not disappoint and sightings is guaranteed. Our crew is passionate about what we do, and you will...
Top ratedTruly one of a kind. This experience is truly unlike any other animal encounter you’ll experience in South Africa. No cages or distance will separate you from these...
Explore
Hike the trails, view marine wildlife, or join an ocean adventure.
3 spotsHiking RoutesThree circular trails offering varied distances on the peninsula.Explore Photo: tour listing on Viator
3 spotsMarine & Wildlife ViewingSpot rich marine life and coastal birds around the rugged peninsula.Explore Photo: tour listing on Viator
2 spotsSeal Snorkelling ToursBoat tours from Plettenberg Bay to snorkel with wild seals.Explore Photo: tour listing on Viator
Nelson Bay Cave contains evidence of Stone Age inhabitation.
Learn about the area's early human history.
Plan your visit
Allow 30 minutes for a quick walk, or up to 4 hours to hike The Point trail.
Visit October to April for warmer weather. June to November is best for whale watching.
Drive 10 to 15 minutes south from Plettenberg Bay. Parking is free with your entry ticket.
Entry is a small conservation fee per adult (recently around R65). Boat tours start from around $49 and vary by operator.
This protected peninsula extends into the ocean just south of Plettenberg Bay. It features prehistoric rocks that date back 120 million years. Visitors come to hike the three circular trails and observe marine life.
A large breeding colony of Cape fur seals lives on the eastern side. You can watch them from the Hiking Routes or join an Seal Snorkelling Tours tour to see them up close.
The marine protected area provides a sanctuary to vulnerable fish species. Read our guide on Directions & Parking to start planning your trip.
We read traveler feedback to highlight what to expect.
We list starting prices to help you budget.
We provide the specific details you need to plan your day.
From Viator
137 reviews of the swim with seals on Viator
What a ride! Getting SO up close to seals was unreal! Not to mention the boat trip out! Hope you bring your sea legs! Guides were great - thanks for the assurance @ Claude. Very supportive of nervous swimmers and very respectful of the seals and habitat. Fully recommended. You might even see Prince Harry ;)
Awesome experience ! Angelo was very knowledgeable and a fantastic guide. Everyone was super nice and helpful
Fabulous Experience- Fun and interesting Ash driver and Logan our guide were both great Highly recommended
We spent an amazing morning swimming with baby seals. The team were very professional and Ash was a very good guide. It was a nice bonus to also receive all the free photos and videos.
Rough Sea but very skilled Operators made it as unforgettable experience Windy weather within these days made this trip unpredictable. We used one opportunity and do not regret. Thanks to real professional operators we felt safe and should enjoy this trip
This Seal Watching Tour is really great. Nice people, well organized. It’s definitely worth the time. Expect a thrill.
Travel tips
Entrance Fees 2026Find the exact CapeNature conservation fees for day visitors.Read 
Directions & ParkingFind the fastest driving route and parking tips for your visit.Read 
Seal Swimming SafetyLearn the strict safety rules and protocols for swimming with seals in Plettenberg Bay.Read Compare Hiking TrailsCompare Robberg's three hiking routes by time and difficulty.Read Packing checklistFind out what gear, clothing, and supplies you need for a Robberg hike.Read Best time to visitFind out the best seasons for hiking, swimming, and whale watching.Read It depends on the trail you choose. The Gap takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The moderate Witsand trail takes 2 to 3 hours. The longest trail, The Point, takes about 4 hours to complete.
Adults pay R65, and children pay R45 for a day visit. You pay this conservation fee directly to CapeNature at the main entrance gate. See our Entrance Fees 2026 guide for details.
Summer opening hours are 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Winter hours are 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The reserve is open year-round.
Yes, you can swim at The Island Beach, a sandy tombolo connecting to the peninsula. Be highly cautious of strong ocean currents. Swimming with seals requires a guided Seal Snorkelling Tours tour.
There are three trails of varying difficulty. The Gap is relatively easy. Witsand is moderate. The Point is the most challenging, featuring steep sections and rugged rocks. Read our Compare Hiking Trails for more information.
Visit between October and April for warm hiking weather. Visit between June and November for excellent land-based whale watching. See our Best time to visit guide.
Book your boat tour in advance and arrive early to secure parking.
