Welcome To

Mossel Bay

South Africa

The Bay of Mussels

A city with a rich history, a vibrant present and a bright future

Located in South Africa's Western Cape Province, Mossel Bay is a city of 120,000 that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors and residents alike.

Located almost exactly halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay is part of the iconic Garden Route in the Southern Cape area.

Spotlight on Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay offers something for everyone. From surfing to sightseeing to shark sitings, the City is one of South Africa's Top Tourist Destinations

Travelling the Garden Route

One of the world's iconic road trips, the Garden Route is a 300 km scenic route that follows the N4 Highway between Mossel Bay and Storms River. The route highlights the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. Click here for more information.

Wineries of Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay, situated along South Africa’s picturesque Garden Route, has rapidly emerged as a notable wine destination. The region’s unique geographical features and climate play a crucial role in its wine production. Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains, Mossel Bay benefits from a maritime climate that moderates temperatures, resulting in an ideal terroir for viticulture. This climate, combined with diverse soil types ranging from sandy loam to clay, provides optimal conditions for cultivating various grape varieties. For more information, click here.

Wildlife Adventures

Wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to Mossel Bay for its unparalleled opportunities to observe both marine and land-based species. The region’s marine ecosystem is particularly vibrant, offering sightings of whales, dolphins, and seals, especially during migration seasons. Meanwhile, the terrestrial ecosystem supports a range of species, from big game in nearby reserves to smaller, endemic creatures. This blend of ecosystems provides a holistic wildlife experience that is both diverse and rich in natural beauty. For more information, click here.

The Mossel Bay area has been inhabited for nearly 164,000 years, making it a candidate for the cradle of modern humans.

Mossel Bay Highlights

Republic of South Africa. Mossel Bay (Mosselbaai) in Western Cape Province. Botanical garden of the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex and Santos Beach in the background

The Beaches of Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay is known for its picturesque beaches, including Santos Beach, which has been awarded Blue Flag status (a prestigious international award that recognizes excellence in safety, cleanliness, and environmental standards). For more information, click here.

2H91FAW Steps to the caves at the Point of Human Origins near Mosselbay on the Garden Route in South Africa with tourists

Point of Human Origin

Mossel Bay is one of the few places in the world where evidence of early human habitation is exceptionally well-preserved. The region’s abundant caves and rock shelters have yielded a wealth of archaeological artifacts; these findings have provided a glimpse into the daily activities, survival strategies, and cultural practices of prehistoric communities that once thrived in this coastal haven. Sites like the Pinnacle Point caves have revealed some of the earliest evidence of modern human behavior, such as the use of ochre for symbolic purposes and the exploitation of marine resources. For more information, click here.

A surfer's paradise

Mossel Bay offers everything a surfer could dream of - stunning beaches, consistent waves, and a vibrant surf culture. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Mossel Bay has something to offer everyone. For more information, click here.

2B2ACCE Life size replica of Bartolomeu Dias' Caravel (Portuguese) in the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex,Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa

The Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex

A multi-disciplinary museum, the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex features a range of exhibits that highlight the rich human and natural history of the Mossel Bay area. One of the highlights of the museum is a life-sized replica of the boat the Portuguese explorer Barolomeu Dias traveled in when he landed in the area in 1488, an event that marked the first known European contact with local cultures in South Africa. For more details, click here.

Great white shark off the coast at Mossel Bay. South Africa.

Great White Shark Adventures

With a plentiful supply of Great White Sharks, Mossel Bay has become a premier destination for shark diving excursions. With its high success rate for shark sightings, Mossel Bay offers adrenaline junkies the ultimate thrill of getting up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. For more information, click here.

Whale Watching in Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay, nestled along South Africa’s picturesque Garden Route, is one of South Africa's foremost destinations for whale watching. The unique combination of geographic and climatic conditions in this region creates an ideal environment for observing whales in their natural habitat. The bay’s sheltered waters, moderate climate, and nutrient-rich currents attract a variety of whale species, making it a prime location for marine enthusiasts. For more information, click here.