African Penguins of Boulders Beach

Nestled just outside Simon's Town is Boulder's Beach, home to an incredible colony of African Penguins, and the only place in the world where people can come so close to them.

Take the train out from Cape Town for R22 return, and steadily make your way through the towns of the Cape peninsula down to Simon's Town. It is recommended getting first class seats for the train journey - probably for clearer windows - but you get to take in the beautiful views nonetheless after Muizenberg, once the train gets to the coast.

The train can terminate at Fish Hoek, and if it does, you will have to get a mini bus the rest of the way. The mini bus costs R8 and takes you straight to Boulder's Beach.

Once on Boulder's Beach, there are two main areas where you can see the penguins.

The first of the two areas has walkways and viewing platforms. The route winds through a protected nesting area to two main viewing decks. The view with all the penguins in quite incredible. The deck to the right as you enter is a lot quieter, and worth going to first. The deck straight ahead as you enter leads you to more penguins, but it's significantly more crowded.

The second area which is closest to the car park is undoubtedly what makes Boulder's Beach so special. You get to walk freely along the beach, swim in the water and explore the boulders - with all the penguins. Be careful not to get too close though as the penguins do bite! That said, they are very calm and easy going, and people mill around them freely with no problems.

It costs R75 for adults to enter the area, and it is well worth it. The fee covers entry to both areas and it goes towards conservation, which ensures the penguins are protected and continue to breed.

If you are looking for a lovely, relaxing day trip, Boulder's Beach is definitely the place to visit!