Hermanus Whale Festival
Sleep Here. Shuttle There.Your Basecamp for the Hermanus Whale Festival
For 35 years the Southern Right Whales have returned to Hermanus, and this October the whole town turns into South Africa's only eco-marine festival. From 2–4 October 2026, Riverlodge Backpackers is making it easier than ever for Cape Town locals and travelers alike to be part of it,whether you're staying with us for the weekend or just need a lift there and back for the day.
Stay at Riverlodge
Base yourself at our home in the Oude Molen Eco Village for the festival weekend. Choose from dorms or private rooms, unwind in our garden bar, and step straight onto our shuttle from right outside the lodge.
- Dorm and private room options available for the festival weekend
- Book 3 nights or more around 2–4 October 2026 From R350 per person per night
- Shuttle pick-up point right outside the lodge
- Relax in our garden before the next day's whale watching
Hermanus Shuttle
Skip the two-hour drive and the Hermanus parking scramble. Our return shuttle runs straight from Cape Town to the festival grounds, and you don't need to be a Riverlodge guest to book a seat.
- R480 return, per person, per day
- Round-trip: Cape Town ⇄ Hermanus festival grounds
- Departure and return times to be confirmed, check back closer to the date
- Open to Riverlodge guests and Cape Town locals attending for the day
- Seats are limited, so book early
How It Works
- Book your spot: Reserve a room, a shuttle seat, or both. Staying over is optional.
- Meet at Riverlodge or your hotel: Those that are near will depart from our Oude Molen pick-up point on festival mornings.Those at CBD will be fetched from your hotel gate
- Whale watch in Hermanus :Enjoy the marquee, markets, and music while we handle the driving both ways.
- Ride back, sleep easy : The return shuttle brings you home, or straight back to your Riverlodge bed.
Book Now
📞 +27 82 515 0407
Celebrate. Educate. Conserve. Ride with us to the ocean.