Whale coast
Cape Town to Hermanus:
the coastal run
About 120 kilometres along one of the great coastal drives in the world — and a trip where the route you choose matters more than the time you leave.
6 min read · Updated August 2026 · GoLula
Hermanus sits roughly 120 km east of Cape Town, typically 90 minutes to two hours depending on the route and the season. It is the classic day trip from the city, and in whale season it is the reason many people visit the Cape at all.
Two routes, two very different drives
The N2 via Sir Lowry’s Pass is the faster, more direct option, and what most drivers default to. It is a good road and the pass itself is impressive.
The R44 coastal road through Gordon’s Bay, Rooi-Els and Betty’s Bay is longer and slower, and it is the one worth taking. It hugs the cliffs above False Bay for kilometres, and the views are genuinely among the best coastal driving anywhere. If it is a day trip rather than a transfer, take the coast out and the N2 back.
Which would we suggest?
Coast road out, N2 home. You see the drive at its best in the morning light and get back efficiently in the afternoon, which is when the N2 flows better anyway.
Whale season
Southern right whales are generally in Walker Bay from around June to November, with the peak usually in September and October. Hermanus is known for land-based whale watching — the cliff path means you often do not need a boat at all.
That also means the town is busy in those months, and the drive back on a Sunday afternoon in September is not the quiet coastal cruise it was in the morning.
Why people book a driver for this one
Two reasons, and neither is luxury. The first is that the coast road deserves to be looked at rather than driven — it is wasted on whoever is behind the wheel. The second is wine and lunch: Hermanus and the Hemel-en-Aarde valley behind it are a serious wine area, and the drive home is long.
Cape Town to Hermanus, fixed fare
Transfer each way, or hourly hire for the day so the car stays with you along the coast and through the valley.
How far is Hermanus from Cape Town?
About 120 km, generally 90 minutes to two hours depending on route and traffic.
Which is the best route to Hermanus?
The R44 coastal road via Gordon’s Bay and Betty’s Bay is slower but far more scenic. The N2 over Sir Lowry’s Pass is faster.
When is whale season in Hermanus?
Generally June to November, with the peak usually around September and October.
Can you collect us from Cape Town airport?
Yes. We track the flight and can run directly to Hermanus without going into the city.
Request your fare for this route
Tell us your date and time. We confirm a fixed fare, usually within the hour.
Ready when you are.
Fixed fare, silent cabin, a chauffeur already watching your flight.