Mossel Bay Area Accommodation

In the Mossel Bay area you will find the Cape St Blaise lighthouse that was built in 1864. Close to the lighthouse is a cave. This is known as the Cape St Blaise cave and it is where Bartholomew Dias met some live-stock farmers, known as the Attaquas. This cave has been declared a national monument and archeologists report that the cave was used by the Khoi San communities from as far back as 100 thousand years ago.

The cave can be reached from the parking area of "Die Punt" and has pedestrian routes clearly marked with signs. Other beaches in the Mossel Bay area are the "Bakke", Pansy Beach, Dias beach, Kwa Nonqaba and Reebok.

Hikers may be interested in the Ruitersbos Forest Walk, as laid out by the Department of Forestry. Follow the R328 road north as you leave the Mossel bay area to get to the Eight Bells Mountain Inn, which is the official start and finish of the hike. The paths are marked in yellow for a more relaxed walk, and in white for the fitter hikers.

If you are interested in flowers, be sure to visit the Robinson Pass, to the north of the Mossel Bay area, also on the R328. The pass was built in 1886 by Sir Thomas Bain. The road is flanked by pine forests and the hillsides are covered with fynbos. South Africa's national flower, the Protea , blooms in this pass from May to July and it is a spectacular sight due to the contrasting fractured rock and deep gorges in the background.

The Mossel Bay area, situated along the stunning Garden Route in the Western Cape, South Africa, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors.

Here are ten things to see or do in the Mossel Bay area:

1. Diaz Museum Complex:

• Explore the Diaz Museum Complex, which commemorates the landing of the Portuguese navigator Bartolomeu Dias in 1488. The complex includes a maritime museum, the famous Post Office Tree, and a life-size replica of Dias's caravel.

2. St. Blaize Trail:

• Hike the scenic St. Blaize Trail, a 13.5-kilometer coastal trail starting at the Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and opportunities for whale and dolphin spotting.

3. Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse:

• Visit the historic Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse, operational since 1864. The lighthouse provides panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean, making it a great spot for photography.

4. Santos Beach:

• Relax at Santos Beach, a Blue Flag beach known for its safe swimming conditions and pristine sandy shores. It's a perfect spot for sunbathing, beach games, and family outings.

5. Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex:

• Discover more about Mossel Bay’s rich history and maritime heritage at this museum, which houses a replica of Dias’s caravel and various exhibits on local history and culture.

6. Great Brak River Museum:

• Learn about the history and heritage of the Great Brak River area at this small but informative museum, featuring exhibits on local industry, agriculture, and community life.

7. Shark Cage Diving:

• Experience the thrill of shark cage diving with one of the local operators. This adventure allows you to get up close with great white sharks in their natural habitat.

8. Pinnacle Point Caves:

• Visit the Pinnacle Point Caves, an important archaeological site where evidence of early human life and advanced behavior dating back 162,000 years has been found. Guided tours offer insights into our ancient ancestors.

9. Botlierskop Private Game Reserve:

• Enjoy a safari experience at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, rhinos, and buffalo. Guided game drives, horseback safaris, and walking safaris are available.

10. Oudtshoorn and Cango Caves:

• Take a day trip to Oudtshoorn to visit the Cango Caves, one of the world’s great natural wonders. The caves feature impressive limestone formations and guided tours that delve into their history and geology.

These attractions provide a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities, making Mossel Bay a diverse and exciting destination for travelers.