- Gavin van Rooyen, a passionate local tour guide and single father, offers visitors a unique experience of Hout Bay by showcasing its hidden gems and diverse communities.
- His tours emphasize authentic local stories, creating unforgettable moments like kayaking with dolphins.
- Van Rooyen aims to grow his business while boosting the local economy through tourism.
Hout Bay is a place of breathtaking landscapes, rich history and vibrant communities, but for Gavin van Rooyen, a local tour guide and single father, it’s more than just a tourist destination, it’s home.
With his deep rooted connection to the area and a passion for sharing its untold stories, Van Rooyen is giving visitors an authentic taste of Hout Bay, beyond the well-trodden paths of Chapman’s Peak and Seal Island.
“I’ve always loved the idea of showing people the heart of Hout Bay, not just the popular sights, but the hidden gems that make it truly unique,” Van Rooyen explains. “Tourists are often surprised when they realise how diverse this place is, with its township, and how all of this exists within a reasonably affluent area.”
Van Rooyen’s journey to becoming a licensed tour guide started with a love for his home town and a desire to support his family. “I became a tour guide to promote everything that Hout Bay has to offer,” he says. While becoming a licensed guide requires training through an accredited tourism institution, Van Rooyen didn’t face any major hurdles. Instead, he focused on how his local knowledge would give tourists an experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.
“I think my experience as a local helps make the tours feel more authentic. I can share the real stories of the people and places here, and tourists love that. We also have access to lesser-known spots that come with their own intriguing stories.”
Love
When asked what aspects of Hout Bay he loves showcasing, Van Rooyen doesn’t hesitate: “I love showing people how this beautiful bay holds so many different communities, each with its own history and contribution. And then, the natural beauty is unbeatable.”
But it’s not just the stories that make Van Rooyen’s tours special, it’s the memorable experiences. One standout moment involved a group of guests kayaking in the bay when a pod of dolphins joined them. “Moments like that, where you see nature at its best, are unforgettable. Those are the experiences people take home with them.”
Running a business is challenging, but for Van Rooyen, the added responsibility of raising his daughter as a single father provides him with endless motivation. “As a parent, you just want the best for your child. Providing for her and showing her the value of hard work is what keeps me going, even when times are tough.”
Managing both roles can be demanding, but Van Rooyen remains positive, relying on a solid plan and support from his community. “It’s about staying focused and getting back up when things don’t go as planned.”
Looking ahead, Van Rooyen has big dreams for his life. He’s not just focused on growing his brand, he wants to see the entire local economy thrive through tourism. “I want Sentinel Tours to be a way for local businesses to flourish as tourism increases.”
Van Rooyen actively markets his tours through social media, flyers, and word-of-mouth, and the response has been encouraging. “Locals are always happy to see tourism boosting our industry, and tourists appreciate the authenticity.”
For those looking to support Van Rooyen’s vision, spreading the word about Sentinel Tours is a great way to help. “Word of mouth is huge for me. And anyone interested can reach out via email at sentineltourism@gmail.com or follow us on Instagram @sentineltourscpt.”
As Van Rooyen continues to grow his business and share the rich, diverse stories of Hout Bay with the world, he offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Have a solid plan, find support in the industry, and no matter what, always get back up.”
For Van Rooyen, being a tour guide isn’t just a job, it’s a way to celebrate his home, provide for his daughter, and create lasting memories for the people who visit Hout Bay. With his dedication, passion, and love for his community, he is helping ensure that Hout Bay’s unique charm is felt by everyone who sets foot in this coastal gem.
