See the Penguins at Boulder’s Beach

by Shannon De Kock October 04, 2018

Have you ever seen a penguin walk? There’s nothing cuter and sure to cheer you up than interacting with these charming African natives. View these remarkable seabirds up close when you enter Boulders Beach in Simons Town.

About African Penguins

Formerly known as Jackass Penguins, African Penguins are unique to the continent and can only be found from south Namibia down the South African coast and up to Port Elizabeth.

“Penguins are peculiar animals. They waddle around the shore awkwardly yet they "fly" effortlessly through the water,” says accredited tour guide David Wolfaard.

“From the fluffy-grey chicks, the blue-grey juveniles, through to the black and white adults, one must remember that these creatures' "coats" are actually feathers. Penguins are birds. They lay only two eggs a year and, as a lesson to those who consider themselves the "top of the development chain", penguins are monogamous and mate for life.”

Penguin, Boulders Beach, SimonsTown, Cape Town

Endangered species

From 1.5 million a century ago, to only 2 breeding pairs in 1982, the African Penguin was nearing extinction. Thanks to recent conservation efforts, the two breeding pairs were grown to over 3,000 currently.

When is the best time to visit the African Penguins?

Summer is the best time as the warmer weather means they won’t be huddling in a cave. However, you can view the penguins at Boulders Beach anytime throughout the year. It’s recommended to go early morning or late afternoon if you’re looking to photograph the penguins in action. Between September and October, they feed out at sea and there will be fewer penguins.

Penguin, Boulders Beach, Tours Africa

How much does it cost to visit the penguins at Boulders Beach?

For R76 per adult or R41 for children under 12, you can spend the day relaxing on a pristine beach, protected from the wind by large rocks and warm water. The highlight is no-doubt the African penguins but be warned – these are wild animals and as cute as they are, might peck if you get too close.

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Shannon De Kock

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