The Serengeti of the sea

Marine Safari

Visit one of the only places in the world that plays home to such an extensive range of marine wildlife, and witness these fearsome, graceful and comical creatures in their own aquatic wonderland.

A safari unlike any other

Seeing the Marine Big 5 in their natural habitat is a sight few have had the privilege to witness. Enjoy close encounters with whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins in all their glory as they feed, frolic and play.

Join us on a purpose-built eco-friendly tour vessel as we partner with Dyer Island Cruises, and enjoy a trip led by experienced marine biologists and guides. Witness thousands of Cape Fur Seals basking in the sun, try and spot some fearsome Great White Sharks or delight as bottlenose dolphins surf right by the boat.

  • Grootbos is perfectly positioned on the doorstep of this marine paradise.
  • Learn fascinating facts from guides and biologists, with the emphasis always on conversation.
  • Float alongside curious Southern Right Whales or laugh at comical colonies of African Penguins.
  • Spot an abundance of bird and marine life and soak up exquisite scenery.
     
Whales
Seals
Sharks
Penguins
Dolphins

From Our Expert Guides

Clayton Niemand
"Experience an unforgettable marine safari and be blown away by the abundance of marine life"

Testimonials

This is definitely a bucket list destination.

Linsey Caine - South Africa

Whale Watching and so much more at Grootbos - I stayed at Grootbos, ostensibly to see the Southern Right Whales.

Donovan Clark - United Kingdom

Wonderful experience - we went off-site for the whale watching and shark cage excursion.

Juliane Bruwer - United States

The safari is a must and you will gaze stunning views allover the Walkerbay from Hermanus to Gansbaai. Definitely we will return, probably in the whale season. 

Bruno S - South Africa

Luxury with nature to enjoy - Home of the "Marine Big 5" and with unparalleled floral diversity.

Chris Devas - Canada
Enjoy the warmth of our hospitality

Grootbos Foundation and global recognition

Grootbos is a world leader in sustainable tourism and has been awarded some of the highest international accolades possible, making us one of only a handful of lodges to achieve this.

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A UNIQUE SOUTH AFRICAN EXPERIENCE

Grootbos invites you to experience our country's most precious floral biome and marine wilderness like never before. Enjoy unique guided experiences while being treated to five-star luxury at our lodges and villas. We offer South African residents an exclusive discounted rate and additional benefits. 

What's new at Grootbos - New Garden Lodge and Florilegium

The last year has been a busy one at Grootbos. We rebuilt our beloved Garden Lodge entirely and re-opened it in April 2022. We also officially launched the Grootbos Florilegium - Africa's first contemporary florilegium - which is a collection of botanical illustrations created by local and international artists, depicting the charismatic plants found on our reserve and the surrounding regions.

Click below to learn more about these exciting developments.

See New Garden Lodge See Florilegium