Visit Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Current Daily Entry Fees (2024–2025)

Your ticket fee directly supports SANParks' conservation efforts.

Gate Times / Office Hours

• December to January: 07h00 – 19h30
• February to March: 08h00 – 18h30
• April to September: 08h00 – 17h00
• October to November: 08h00 – 18h30

African Penguin: Found in South Africa and Namibia

The African penguin, also called the "Jackass penguin" due to its braying call, is native to the coasts of South Africa and Namibia. These penguins thrive in warmer climates and feed on sardines, squid, and anchovies. Visitors can spot them in Simon’s Town, Cape Town, where they live and forage in their natural habitat.

Standing 45–60 cm tall and weighing 3.6–4 kg, these penguins have waterproof feathers for insulation, aiding their survival in the ocean. Penguins form lifelong mating pairs and nest in burrows made from dirt and guano, protecting their eggs and chicks from predators. They also undergo a process called moulting, shedding all feathers annually to grow a fresh coat.

FAQs

1. Where is the African penguin colony located?

The African penguin colony is located at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, Cape Town, South Africa.

2. Can I swim with the penguins?

Yes, visitors can swim near the penguins at Boulders Beach. However, you should respect their space and avoid disturbing them.

3. What is the best time to visit Boulders Beach?

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the penguins are most active. The peak tourist season is from December to March.

4. How can I support penguin conservation efforts?

You can contribute by visiting Boulders Beach (your ticket fee supports SANParks) or by donating to SANCCOB, a non-profit organization focused on rescuing and rehabilitating seabirds. Visit www.sanccob.co.za for more details.

Interesting Facts About African Penguins

• African penguins can hold their breath underwater for about 2.5 minutes while diving for food.
• They are the only penguin species native to Africa and prefer warmer climates.
• Each African penguin has a unique pattern of spots on its chest, much like a human fingerprint.
• They use guano (excrement) to build their nests, which help insulate and protect their chicks.
• African penguins mate for life, forming strong pair bonds that last through breeding seasons.

Why Visit This Attraction?

Visiting Boulders Beach provides a rare opportunity to see African penguins in their natural habitat. The attraction is affordable, family-friendly, and included in many Cape Peninsula tours. Relax on Cape Town’s pristine beaches, enjoy meals at top-rated restaurants, and shop for unique souvenirs while supporting penguin conservation efforts.

Other Penguin Species

Chinstrap Penguin

Identified by their black "chinstrap" markings, these penguins feed on krill and fish and build nests from stones. Both parents take turns incubating eggs.

Crested Penguin

Known for their black, white, and yellow plumage, crested penguins breed in sub-Antarctic regions. Only one chick is usually raised per season.

Emperor Penguin

The tallest and heaviest penguin species, Emperor penguins can dive to depths of 1,750 ft and hold their breath for 20 minutes. They are uniquely adapted to breed during Antarctic winters.

Gentoo Penguin

The Gentoo penguin is distinguished by its long tail and was first described in 1781. It is closely related to Chinstrap penguins.