Penguin Palace - Koggelfontein workshops

Penguin Palace is a guesthouse near Koggelfontein workshops.

Location
Koggelfontein workshops, Western Cape & Garden Route, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-34.196260, 18.433167
Elevation
87m
Website
https://www.penguinpalace.co.za/
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 35/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

5332 species observed within 20 km, 76 mammals, 339 birds.

  • Western Leopard Toad (Amphibia, 10840 observations)
  • Bietou (Plantae, 2848 observations)
  • African Penguin (Aves, 2804 observations)
  • Golden Conebush (Plantae, 2565 observations)
  • tree pincushion (Plantae, 2477 observations)
  • wild mallow (Plantae, 2288 observations)
  • Sickleleaf Conebush (Plantae, 2253 observations)
  • Brown Fur Seal (Mammalia, 2196 observations)
  • rose-scented geranium (Plantae, 2158 observations)
  • Cape Dwarf Chameleon (Reptilia, 2011 observations)

Best Time to Visit Penguin Palace

The best months to visit Penguin Palace are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 20.13°C, rainfall 18.3mm, sunshine 13.1 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 20.16°C, rainfall 14.8mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 74.7%
  • March: Great, temperature 18.78°C, rainfall 40.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.7%
  • April: Good, temperature 16.81°C, rainfall 33.7mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 78.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 15.63°C, rainfall 64.7mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 80.1%
  • June: Poor, temperature 14.98°C, rainfall 101.4mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 76.6%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.31°C, rainfall 92.6mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 76%
  • August: Good, temperature 13.22°C, rainfall 80.1mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 75.3%
  • September: Good, temperature 13.98°C, rainfall 49.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 74.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 16.42°C, rainfall 23.4mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 73.8%
  • November: Good, temperature 17.61°C, rainfall 26.3mm, sunshine 12.3 hrs, humidity 72.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 18.96°C, rainfall 35mm, sunshine 12.9 hrs, humidity 72.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the real draw of staying at Penguin Palace, given it's near the Koggelfontein workshops?

We love Penguin Palace precisely because it offers a unique blend of quiet comfort away from the main tourist trails, yet is close enough to explore the fascinating Koggelfontein workshops. It's the perfect base for those who appreciate a more authentic, less crowded South African experience, with the lodge itself providing a tranquil haven after a day of discovery.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see around Penguin Palace?

While Penguin Palace isn't situated within a national park teeming with big game, we've been delighted by the abundance of birdlife and smaller creatures in the surrounding fynbos. Expect to see a variety of endemic birds, perhaps some shy dassies, and if you're lucky, even a tortoise. It's a gentler kind of wildlife encounter, perfect for quiet observation.

When is the absolute best time to visit Penguin Palace for comfortable weather and fewer crowds?

We find the shoulder seasons, specifically spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), offer the most pleasant experience at Penguin Palace. The weather is typically mild and sunny, ideal for exploring the nearby workshops and enjoying the lodge's peaceful surroundings without the peak summer heat or winter chill.

What are the typical costs associated with a stay at Penguin Palace, and what's included?

We found Penguin Palace to be refreshingly good value, offering comfortable accommodation without the hefty price tag of larger safari lodges. While rates can vary, expect them to cover a hearty breakfast and often a simple, home-cooked dinner. It’s wise to confirm directly with the lodge about what meals are included in your specific booking.

How safe is the area around Penguin Palace, and what precautions should we take?

We felt perfectly at ease during our stay at Penguin Palace. The guesthouse operates in a quiet, rural setting, and we encountered no safety concerns. As with any travel, we recommend usual precautions like securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially if venturing out after dark.

Other Safari Lodges in Koggelfontein workshops

Parks in Western Cape & Garden Route

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa