South Africa's West Coast is fast becoming a destination of global significance for whale activity, offering researchers, conservationists and tourists a unique opportunity to observe these giants of the ocean. With year-round sightings of humpback whales, southern right whales and Bryde's whales, the West Coast has become a key region along whale migratory routes.
Since the international ban on whaling in 1986, whale populations have steadily increased, making their comeback as one of the world's greatest conservation success stories. And now, right here along our coastline, we have what can only be described as superhighways for whales - an extraordinary natural phenomenon happening in our waters.
Alex Vogel, southern Africa's data manager for Happywhale, has been documenting these supergroups, where hundreds of humpbacks gather to feed. Vogel notes that in just one month a supergroup spotted on the West Coast included an astonishing 297 individuals.
A deep history of whaling in the Western Cape
Whales in the Western Cape have long been part of a story that began with exploitation, but it now unfolds as a celebration of nature, recovery and growing tourism opportunities.
In the 19th century, South Africa's coastline had several whaling stations. Whalers primarily targeted southern rights, which were slow moving and floated after death, making them easy to catch. Whale oil was one of the most traded commodities in the world, used in lamps, lubricants and industrial machinery during the early stages of the Industrial Revolution. Baleen, the stiff, comb-like structures in a whale's mouth that help it filter...
Gunnar is a photojournalist who is deeply passionate about the intersection of nature, wildlife, and people. Through his photography and writing, he aims to inspire others to cultivate a deeper connection with the natural world. Living in Simon’s Town, Gunnar dives in the kelp forest every day, capturing the beauty and wonder of the underwater landscape.
Special thanks to Chris Wilkinson, Alex Vogel and the dedicated teams at the Simon’s Town Museum and the Fish Hoek Valley Museum for their invaluable insights, historical records and ongoing efforts in marine and heritage preservation.
