Waddle with the Two Oceans Aquarium in celebration of International African Penguin Awareness Day

On 11 October 2025, which is African Penguin Awareness Day, the Two Oceans Aquarium, in partnership with Guardians of the Deep, SANPARKS Honorary Rangers, and SANCCOB, invites Cape Town’s ocean-loving community to join a Waddle from Long Beach to Seaforth Beach in Simon’s Town. This public event aims to raise awareness regarding the plight of African penguins and an opportunity for people to show their love and concern for this charismatic species. Here’s everything you need to know.

All About the Two Oceans Aquarium’s Waddle

African penguins are the only penguin species found on the African continent. Unfortunately, their numbers have declined dramatically in the last century – current estimates suggest that there are only ~8 750 breeding pairs in the wild today. If their numbers continue to decline at their current rate, these charismatic birds will be functionally extinct in the wild within 15 to 20 years.

The Two Oceans Aquarium aims to combat this decline by raising awareness and support for these iconic birds through their Waddle Walk. Participants are invited to show their support for African penguins by dressing in black and white and carrying creative signs to spread awareness. Before setting off, everyone can enjoy a fun activity station, complete with penguin-themed face paint to get into the spirit.

The 4km route winds through Simon’s Town, along the Boulders Beach boardwalk, and finishes at Seaforth Beach. Participation is free and open to all, and walkers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, bring water in reusable bottles, and pack snacks in reusable containers. Spot prizes will be up for grabs on the day, including an award for the best-dressed waddler.

“African penguins are iconic to Cape Town, and we are privileged to be able to see them in the False Bay Hope Spot,” states Helen Lockhart, Conservation and Sustainability Manager for the Two Oceans Aquarium. “This privilege comes with responsibility – each one of us is a custodian for the species and it is up to us to raise our voices so that we keep these birds in the media and government spotlight so that they receive the attention and conservation action they deserve. This species will not go extinct on our watch!”

Celebrate Penguins at the Two Oceans Aquarium

This school holiday, penguins are taking centre stage at the Two Oceans Aquarium. Every feeding sessions (11.30am and 2.30pm), three lucky visitors are selected to take part in the penguin feeding process, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be close to these special birds. Make sure to arrive five minutes early to be eligible for feeding.

If you’ve signed up for membership during the school holiday period, you will automatically be entered into a lucky draw for the Penguin Experience. This experience allows up to two people to meet the Northern rockhopper penguins up close, learn how the penguins are cared for, and discover their unique stories.

Kids can also enjoy penguin-themed crafts, temporary tattoos and puppet shows throughout the holidays, teaching them about the wonders of these creatures and the importance of conserving them.

When: 3 – 12 October 2025
Where: Two Oceans Aquarium