African Penguin

The African Penguin

Fall in love with an iconic species

Information about African penguin

The African penguin is endemic to coastal areas of Southern Africa. It is a charismatic species that is known for its loud donkey-like braying noises, distinctive black and white plumage and large breeding colonies. It is a flightless bird that is well adapted to life at sea and land. The body is streamlined with modified wings that resemble flippers, which enable them to be efficient swimmers, and a thick coat with overlapping feathers that assists with waterproofing, wind resistance and insulation.

Interesting facts about African penguin

African penguins are monogamous and share parenting duties.

Unfortunately, the African penguin is an endangered species.

The black spots on their chest and belly are unique to each penguin and are the main way humans learn to tell the penguins apart.

Pictures of African penguin

African Penguin
Boulders Beach

Highlights where the African penguin can be seen

Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach

Just around the corner from Simon’s Town lies Boulders Beach, a sheltered cove of soft white sand, massive granite boulders and icy cold water. Boulders Beach is the home to a colony of thousands of African penguins. Here you will see them go about their daily business: preening and sunning themselves, guarding a nest, waddling along the sand and sliding into the water.

Cape of Good Hope
Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope is a rocky headland on the southern end of South Africa’s Cape Peninsula. Throughout history, the Cape of Good Hope has been historically significant to sailors and explorers. Bartolomeu Dias, the 15th century Portuguese explorer, was the first officially recorded person to have successfully navigated these turbulent waters and was instrumental in setting up trade routes between Europe and the Far East. From various lookouts points you will see sweeping views of the lighthouses, coastlines and pristine scenery.

Our trips to spot the African penguin