Agulhas National Park — Attraction in Cape Agulhas Local Municipality

Disappointing Stay at Agulhas National Park – Poor Service & Cleanliness

We booked a stay at Agulhas National Park for my wife’s birthday (30 March 2025), expecting a memorable experience at the southernmost tip of Africa. While the location itself is undeniably brilliant (5 stars for that), everything else—from service to cleanliness—was a massive letdown.

Service: Unwelcoming & Unhelpful

From the moment we arrived, the service was cold and uninviting. The receptionist was unfriendly, barely acknowledging us, and certainly not someone who enjoys dealing with guests.

To make matters worse, we got completely lost on the way there because Google Maps directed us to a closed road with a sign stating “No Access to Agulhas This Route.” Only later did we realize that the confirmation email containing important arrival instructions was sent at 16:37 PM on the day of our check-in—well after we were already on the road. How absurd to send crucial information after guests are expected to check in!

When we finally made it, the receptionist’s first response wasn’t to assist or apologize but to say, “I hope you have a Wild Card because I have already cashed up.” No warmth, no hospitality—just a clear sign that guests are an afterthought here.

Cleanliness: An Absolute Nightmare

If the service was bad, the cleanliness was even worse. The night was unbearable due to an insane amount of bedbugs and fishmoths—we hardly got any sleep. The bathroom had a roach I ignored, and later we had to throw away our hot cross buns from the bread bins in the kitchen after discovering them crawling inside the food storage area.

With the lack of effort from reception staff, I can only assume the same careless attitude extends to housekeeping. Clearly, there is no attention to hygiene, which is unacceptable for an establishment of this nature.

While Agulhas National Park has a breathtaking location, the poor service and serious cleanliness issues ruined our stay. Lesson learned: CapeNature is the way to go—we’ve never had an issue with them, and they provide far better-managed nature experiences. We won’t be returning to Agulhas National Park, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who values good service and a clean,...

Our visit to Agulhas National Park was an unforgettable experience! The drive through the charming little town leading to the park is a treat in itself, with its quaint coastal vibe and bustling fishermen adding to the charm.

The Southern Tip of Africa is the highlight of the park—a place where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans officially meet. Standing at the beacon marking the southernmost tip of the African continent is not just cool but also deeply memorable. It's a special moment to reflect on being at the literal end of the continent!

The Cape Agulhas Lighthouse is another must-visit. For a small fee, you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views. Admittedly, the climb might feel a bit daunting for those with a fear of heights or confined spaces, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. Fun fact: This lighthouse is the second oldest in South Africa, having been built in 1848. It still stands as a symbol of guidance for sailors navigating the once treacherous waters of the area.

Adding to the park’s intrigue are the shipwrecks visible along the coastline. Cape Agulhas is historically known as a graveyard of ships, with treacherous waters that claimed many vessels over the centuries. One of the most notable shipwrecks is the Meisho Maru 38, whose rusting remains can still be seen along the shoreline.

Currently, the park is undergoing exciting renovations with new buildings under construction, and they already look like they’re going to be spectacular additions.

Fun Facts about Cape Agulhas:

It is the geographical southernmost point of the African continent, not Cape Point as commonly mistaken.

The name “Agulhas” comes from the Portuguese word for “needles,” referring to the needle-like rocks in the area and the sharpness of the compass reading (it pointed true north here in the 15th century).

The merging of the two oceans here creates a unique marine ecosystem, attracting diverse sea life.

This park is an absolute must-visit if you’re anywhere near the area. It’s worth every kilometer driven to get there. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and unique geographical features makes it a truly special...

My visit to Cape Agulhas National Park was a genuinely wonderful experience, and I enjoyed every single moment I spent at this exceptional location. The park, marking the official southernmost tip of the African continent where the mighty Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge, is nothing short of amazing. The atmosphere is both rugged and serene, defined by dramatic coastal scenery, vast, windswept plains, and the unique biodiversity of the Fynbos Kingdom. The feeling of standing at the very Tip of Africa, gazing out at the monumental point where two oceans meet, is incredibly powerful and unforgettable. I loved exploring the iconic Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, which is not only a beautiful piece of history but offers breathtaking panoramic views of the "Graveyard of Ships" coastline. The boardwalks and walking trails are impeccably maintained, allowing for peaceful strolls across the diverse landscape. My only regret and a big one is that I visited during the height of the COVID-19 regulations. This meant that several key activities, like climbing the lighthouse or visiting the small museum and potentially other planned cultural activities or boat trips, were unfortunately closed or severely restricted. It’s a pity, as these closures prevented me from getting the full, immersive experience of the park's rich maritime history and culture. Despite these necessary restrictions, the natural beauty and sense of peace the park offers were more than enough to make the trip worthwhile. Cape Agulhas is a destination that captivates the soul and deserves to be explored. I highly recommend visiting, and if you can, go when all facilities are fully operational to get the most out...