About Us
Welcome to Kayak Cape Town, your premier kayaking adventure company based in the beautiful Simon’s Town, South Africa.
Since November 2001, we’ve been dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences on the water, and our passion for the outdoors and conservation shines through in every tour we offer.
Our Story
Kayak Cape Town was founded from a passion for adventure and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty around us. We are so fortunate to be able to share the wonder of the African Penguin with those who join us.
Over the years, we’ve grown into a leading kayaking tour provider, but our core values have remained unchanged: a commitment to environmental stewardship, a love for ocean ventures, and a genuine desire to bring joy to our clients.
Our Mission
At Kayak Cape Town, we believe that every paddling experience should be as enriching as it is exhilarating. Our tours are designed to not only showcase the landscapes of Simons Town and its surroundings but also to foster a sense of environmental awareness and appreciation.
Conservation is at the heart of what we do. We strive to ensure that our activities have minimal impact on the environment and aim to educate our guests on the importance of protecting our natural resources.
Why We Love
What We Do
The smiles and excitement of our clients are the true rewards of our work.
There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing the joy that our kayak trips bring, whether it’s a serene paddle through a tranquil bay or an exhilarating journey along the rugged coastline.
We live for the thrill of adventure and the opportunity to share the wonders of our beautiful coastline with you.
Join Us
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, we invite you to join us for an experience that combines adventure, education, and fun.
Discover the stunning marine life, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant ecosystems that make our tours truly special. At Kayak Cape Town, every trip is a chance to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Our Guides
Ryan
Henk
Nefter
More About
The African Penguin
The main attraction of a Cape Town kayaking experience in Simon’s Town is the opportunity to view African Penguins from the water.
To understand just how wildly awesome this opportunity is, here are some facts about this endangered bird:
Common Name: African Penguin
Scientific Name: Spheniscus Demersus. Spheniscus = Greek for small wedge (their formation when swimming) and Deemersus = Latin for plunging
Class: Aves
Weight: 2.1 To 3.7 kilograms (4.63 To 8.16 pounds)
Height: 50 cm (19.7 inches)
There are seventeen species of penguins, but the African Penguin is the only one found on the African continent and its inshore islands.
Formerly known as the Jackass Penguin due to its braying calls on land, the name was changed to African Penguin to distinguish it from the similar Jackass Penguin found in South America. Another name sometimes used is the Black-footed Penguin.
African Penguins are identifiable by a black stripe curving across their chest.
They are insulated by air trapped between their feathers, making them vulnerable during their annual moulting period.
At Boulders Beach, this occurs around November and lasts about three weeks. During this time, they are land-bound, losing up to half their body weight.
Before moulting, they eat excessively to gain about 30% more fat.
Despite their clumsy appearance on land, African Penguins are highly skilled swimmers, reaching speeds of up to 24 kilometres (15 miles) per hour. Unlike many aquatic birds, they swim using their modified wings as flippers, while their webbed feet assist mainly on the water’s surface. Their small, waterproof feathers overlap to provide insulation, with African and South American penguins having shorter feathers than their Antarctic counterparts due to less severe cold.
African Penguins typically live an average of 15 years but can sometimes reach up to 24 years.
Want more info? Come join one of our kayaking tours and our expert guides will tell you all about these fascinating creatures!
