This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Gansbaai.
Tourists seeking a spot to view great white sharks can find what they’re looking for in Gansbaai, a fishing town located in the Western Cape of South Africa. A popular destination for travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of a whale or take the plunge for a cage dive with sharks, Gansbaai has developed a thriving tourism industry in the last few decades.
Still, the town’s main industry and employer is the Gansbaai Fishing Co-op, which has been running since 1952. One of the more unique experiences for visitors in this area is heading from the local hotel or hostel to the harbour and watching the fishing boats as they come and go through the bay. Another key stop for most tourists is the Danger Point Lighthouse, located near the Birkenhead Rock.
This spectacular natural paradise is the perfect destination for travelers looking to enjoy outdoor recreation activities. Around Gansbaai, you’ll find kayaking, horse riding, quad biking, safaris, and hikes into the mountains. There are a number of nature reserves in the area, and visitors can see the plethora of wildlife in the unique landscapes found near Gansbaai – which boasts particularly diverse species of birds and antelope.
Visitors to Gansbaai can find all kinds of accommodation options in this town, ranging from resorts and lodges to inexpensive hostels and hotels. Since Gansbaai see frequent visitors from around the world, the hostels and hotels here are staffed with friendly people who can provide plenty of information to help visitors learn more about what the area has to offer.
Driving to Gansbaai from Cape Town takes approximately two hours, and visitors who have flown in to the airport can either take a taxi or a bus to get here. There are also rental cars available, which would be a better option for travelers who plan to explore more of South Africa’s Western Cape.
Written by local enthusiast for Gansbaai hostels
Jakob Lombardi
