Why Tourists from Europe are flocking to Plettenberg bay

A Travel experience that encompasses all of the best of South Africa

Tourists from Europe including large numbers from The UK, Germany and The Netherlands have become regular visitors to Plettenberg Bay (Plett) and are often drawn to the region because it offers a combination of natural beauty, unique wildlife, and luxury experiences that are difficult to find anywhere else in the world. Here are some of the experiences that make Plett a truly one of a kind destination for British, German and Dutch tourists.

It is no surprise that the mostly sunny and warm climate is one of the factors that draws tourists from Europe in general, but the unique experiences in nature are what really sets Plettenberg bay apart from other destinations. Unique experiences and meaningful encounters with culture and wildlife are central to many of the travel aspirations of travellers today.

The only place to see the endangered Knysna seahorse (hippocampus capensis) in the wild

The Knysna seahorse, one of the rarest seahorses in the world, is found only in three South African estuaries, including Plettenberg Bay’s Keurbooms Estuary. Nowhere else in the world can you see these seahorses thriving in their natural habitat, making it a bucket-list experience for divers, snorkelers, and marine lovers. These seahorses truly are incredible to observe in their natural environment and are easily accessible in the shallow waters along the banks of the Keurbooms estuary. Follow the link below to a comprehensive article with incredible images of these beautiful and very rare creatures.

The unique fynbos biome, one of the world’s richest floral kingdoms

The Cape Floral Kingdom, found in and around Plett, is the smallest but most biodiverse floral kingdom on Earth. Fynbos, the signature vegetation of the area, includes rare and endemic species such as Proteas, Ericas, and Restios, many of which cannot be found anywhere else. Recently, the newly discovered species Psoralea vanberkelae was identified near Plettenberg Bay, adding to the area’s botanical uniqueness. This Floral kingdom is a joy to walk and photograph. There are easy walks and more challenging hikes available, something for any fitness level including areas in the forested parts that have wheelchair access.

Walking and hiking in the incredible natural beauty of Plettenberg bay and its surrounding areas is unlike any other. Read more about walks and hikes in Plettenberg bay.

A whale and dolphin watching destination where you can see all three types of whales

Plettenberg Bay is a whale watching hotspot where visitors can see these three types of whales, as well as dolphins and seals. The Whale watching industry is extremely well developed in Plettenberg Bay and carefully monitored by Plett Tourism who promotes and support a responsible boat-based whale and dolphin watching program. All operators are closely monitored to ensure that the recommended distances and time spent with each animal is being adhered to ensure minimal interference and impact on Plett’s marine animals.

Whale sights by season 

Southern Right Whales (July – November)

Humpback Whales (May – December)

Bryde’s Whales (year-round)

Few places in the world offer such guaranteed whale sightings, and the calm, scenic bay makes for a premium whale-watching experience, compared to rougher seas in places like Iceland or Scotland.

The only place in South Africa where you can walk with elephants

At The Elephant Sanctuary near Plettenberg Bay, visitors can experience a rare hands-on encounter with rescued African elephants, including walking hand-in-trunk with them. Unlike standard safari drives, this intimate interaction offers a one-of-a-kind experience that isn’t available in the UK or Europe.

The world’s largest free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary

Monkeyland in Plett is the only free-roaming primate sanctuary of its kind in the world.

Visitors can walk through a massive indigenous forest, encountering rescued primates from around the world, including gibbons, lemurs, capuchins, and howler monkeys.

Africa’s most exclusive polo and luxury wine estates by the beach

Kurland Estate is home to South Africa’s polo elite, offering exclusive matches and luxury accommodations. Polo lovers can watch, play, or train in a world-class setting—a rare combination of polo, vineyards, and ocean views that is impossible to find anywhere else in the World.

Nearby, wine estates like Bramon Wine Estate produce Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines, offering vineyard picnics with ocean views—a uniquely South African take on European wine culture.

Robberg Nature Reserve is a rare peninsula with prehistoric caves and great white sharks

Robberg Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a unique combination of prehistoric caves, towering cliffs, and marine biodiversity.

Visitors can explore Nelson Bay Cave, where ancient human remains were found dating back over 120,000 years. The waters off Robberg are home to great white sharks, Cape fur seals, and dolphins, offering once-in-a-lifetime marine encounters.

One of the best big five safari reserves near the ocean

Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve offers Big Five safaris (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) just minutes from the beach—something very few places in the world can offer. Visitors can go from a morning safari spotting lions to an afternoon on a white-sand beach, an incredibly rare combination.

Bloukrans bridge – the highest bungee jump in the world

For thrill-seekers, Plettenberg Bay is home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jump (216m/709ft) at Bloukrans Bridge. This is a record-breaking adventure that cannot be replicated anywhere in the UK or Europe.

Year-round sunshine, warm beaches & no crowds

A hotel stay that is completely unique

Emily Moon River Lodge offers an experience unlike any other around the World. From the suites and dining experiences available to the views of the majestic Bitou River, Emily Moon River Lodge offers an experience unlike any other.

Each suite is themed and decorated with treasures that the owners have collected on their many trips through Africa and Asia in search of treasures to make a stay at Emily Moon River Lodge and experience unlike any other.

View the suites and restaurants at Emily Moon >>

Unlike busy European beaches, Plett offers miles of unspoiled golden sand, warm water, and sunny weather even in winter. While much of the UK is cold and grey in winter, Plett remains a sun-drenched paradise, perfect for escaping the European winter blues.

Plettenberg Bay is a rare combination of beach, wildlife, adventure, and luxury, offering world-class experiences that cannot be found anywhere else. Whether it’s diving with endangered seahorses, whale-watching, walking with elephants, or sipping wine by the ocean, Plett delivers unparalleled natural beauty, exclusivity, and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for European travellers.