Cape Peninsula, Penguins & Fur Seals
It was a rough start to the morning. My stomach issues and a 7:00 am early start had me a little off balance. Nothing is stopping me from seeing the penguins though and of course reaching the most southern tip of the African continent.
Nestor shows us where the wealthy people of Cape Town live at Clifton, Camp Bay and Hout Bay.
We stop at the entrance to Drakenstein Correctional Facility (still operating) where Nelson Mandela spent his last 14 months of incarceration. The statue of him is lovely except for the bird poop on his shoulder.
There is a lot of ‘on the bus and off the bus’ moments but frequent breaks are appreciated and the views are incredible.
Duiker Island
It didn’t take long to make it to the boat launch for Duiker Island. The ride is about 45 minutes in length, but you get a beautiful view of the mountains in Table Mountain National Park. We had an 8:00 am departure time and the daylight was perfect on Chapman’s Peak.
The fur seals were not overly active. Perhaps it was too early for them or the fact the sun was just coming up over the mountains. They were stinky! This colony of fur seals originated from Antarctica.
Back on dryland, we stroll through the market stalls and come across some interesting items, but again, I have decided to wait until Zimbabwe to make purchases.
Shared Interests
The people on this tour are very nice and I’d say the average is 60+ and not surprising, mostly couples. There are a few of us solo travellers. I’m not having any difficulty finding things in common and of course we can always share our love of travel.
Approach Tours has been very organized and everything so far has been excellent.
Boulders Beach
From where the bus dropped us off, it was a 15 minute walk to the entrance where we would see an African penguin colony. Along the way, children are dancing and singing in the street while an adult collects money. Nestor (our guide) explained that the children perform and adults usually keep the money. It’s sad. The music is so joyful and you can’t help yourself but smile.
The penguins are so sweet as they waddle along the sandy beach. I’m so happy to be here. I’m busting with joy.
Cape of Good Hope – we made it!
What can I say but WOW! The view of the coastline is incredible. Many people believe this is the location where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean but in reality it is 150 km further east.
It’s windy but still relatively calm but something seems to be blowing in. The wind picks up as we make our way to Cape Point.
Cape Point
The Cape of Good Hope is notorious for shipwrecks due to its treacherous waters and unpredictable weather. The exact number of shipwrecks is unknown but it could be as high as 3,000.
The cliffs and waves crashing against the coastline is spectacular! There is usually a funicular available to take you up to the lighthouse, however, it is being maintained, so we waited for a shuttle.
Once dropped off, there is a walk up stairs to the lighthouse. Some member of our group walked up the stairs, but I chose to stay where I was as there wasn’t a handrail. This girl does not want to make an insurance claim.
The wind is so strong that I came close to losing my phone out of my hand. Hang on tight and if you’re wearing a hat, be wary.
It’s Been a Long Day
Even with the mini-breaks, it’s been a long day. I had a little nap on the bus as we headed back towards Cape Town.
Michael, our driver, stops suddenly jolting me out of my nap — to avoid a tortoise. Thank you Mike! Then on the side of the road we spot baboons. I’m so excited! I see a mom carrying her baby underneath her.
Back in Cape Town
Time to clean up quickly and head back to the V&A Waterfront for dinner at Gibsons. Stomach is feeling better now however I am being cautious about what I eat. I actually feel fine and figure this might be a side effect of the malaria pills.
Dinner was quick and I’m thankful because I am really looking forward to a restful sleep. It was an extremely busy day full of wonderful memories that I won’t soon forget.
Tomorrow we visit Stellenbosch to try some South African wines.
