11 Jul 2022
It was only this year that the world's first ever migration map for whales was published by WWF (Feb 2022) reflecting the fact that this is a comparatively lesser-celebrated great migration, than those of the wildebeest or zebra. However the winter months mark the natural phenomenon that is the whale calving season, where whales gather in great numbers off the shores of the De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa.
Whilst not the most common time to visit South Africa, for those who are willing to be open-minded to seasons, a mind-blowing spectacle is in store. Each year, between the months of June and November, around 120 whales return in pods to the warm waters of De Hoop, to mate, calve and rear their young. The waters of De Hoop are filled with commotion as the whales communicate with lyrical sounds that can be heard for many miles away or the elegant movements of the whales as the flip their body vertically above the surface of the water, known as Spy Hopping. This Marine Protected Reserve sees the return of many different species such as the Southern Right whale, Humpbacks, Bryde's and even the occasional Orca. These are accompanied by large numbers of other Cetacea, like dolphin.
Morukuru Family De Hoop is perfectly positioned to offer guests extraordinary sightings. Land-based whale watching can be enjoyed from both the exclusive-use Morukuru Ocean House or Morukuru Beach Lodge. The contemporary and eco-friendly design of both properties is defined by floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic ocean views, meaning guests can even witness this spectacular event from the comfort of their own room, restaurant or the sundowner bar. From here, expert guides will introduce guests to this incredible species and guests will watch mesmerising displays of elegant water acrobatics. In addition the guided marine walks will reveal to guests the vast range of other fascinating species who inhabit this watery world.
Marketing Manager Rinse Wassenaar commented:
“Since Covid we have seen huge interest in people seeking to engage with the natural world, and there is no better way to do that than have a ringside seat at Morukuru De Hoop to watch these giants of our blue planet put on one of the greatest shows on earth.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
Morukuru Family - Morukuru Family's exclusive portfolio is 3 exclusive-use houses in the Madikwe Game Reserve, for exceptional malaria-free safari; whilst 2 ocean-front properties within the stunning De Hoop Nature Reserve. City escape Athol Place House & Villa provides a serene oasis in central Johannesburg.
Prices from at Morukuru Beach Lodge: £290 / R 5 800 pppn.
Prices from at Morukuru Ocean House: £1,880 / R 36 000 6 pax.
Small World Marketing is a UK-based sales and marketing and PR representation agency specialising in small, independently owned boutique hotels and lodges throughout Africa. Deliberately 'small', their handpicked and hands-on approach sees them enjoy working with some of the best properties and brands in Africa.
