Where can you see penguins in Africa?

Boulders Beach in Simon's Town, Cape Town is the most famous spot. Stony Point in Betty's Bay and Robben Island also have accessible colonies.

Can you swim with African penguins?

Yes! At Boulders Beach, you can swim in the same waters as the penguins. They often swim curiously close to visitors.

Why are African penguins endangered?

Their population has declined by 90% since 1900, primarily due to overfishing of their prey (sardines and anchovies), oil spills, and habitat loss.

How many African penguins are left?

Only about 41,700 African penguins remain — down from millions a century ago. Conservation efforts are critical to their survival.

When is the best time to visit the penguins?

Year-round, but breeding season (February–August) is especially active. Early morning visits offer fewer crowds and more active penguins.

🐧Endangered

African Penguin

Spheniscus demersus

The only penguin species native to Africa

Lifespan

10–27 years in the wild

Population

~41,700 (breeding pairs ~18,500)

Size

60–70 cm

Top Speed

Up to 20 km/h in water

Diet

Fish — anchovies, sardines, mackerel

Social

Monogamous pairs in colonies of thousands

Population trend: decreasing|IUCN: EN|Weight: 2.2–3.5 kg

About This Species

Meet the The Jackass Penguin

The African penguin is the only penguin species native to Africa, found along the southern coast of South Africa. They are called "Jackass" penguins because their call sounds like a donkey braying. Boulders Beach in Cape Town is world-famous for its accessible penguin colony.