The Eastern Cape boasts a large diversity of habitats, ranging from the dry Karoo, to savannah bushveld, lush coastal forests and striking mountains. One of the largest provinces in South Africa, the Eastern Cape is the birthplace of "Madiba", the revered Nelson Mandela. This region is the traditional home of the Xhosa peoples. 

Key highlights are...

• Nelson Mandela’s birthplace
• Safe beaches and spectacular coastline
• Addo Elephant Park
• Xhosa and 1820 Settler history and culture
• Shamwari - one of the best in the world
• Malaria-free Big 5 experience
• Gateway to the Garden Route

Shamwari Game Reserve, rated the best safari game reserve in the world, has built an excellent reputation for implementing and maintaining good conservation principles. Other private reserves in the area also offer high quality experiences.

The Addo Elephant National Park is situated in the centre of the province. Here the "Big 5" can be seen i.e. Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard and Lion, as well as numerous other animals. This park is being expanded to form one of the premier conservation areas in southern Africa, and soon visitors will be able to add whales and the the great white shark to their lists - all at one destination!

Several thousand British settlers landed on the shores of the Eastern Cape in 1820. This set the scene for a prolonged series of skirmishes and battles between the settlers and the British army on the one hand, and the Xhosa peoples on the other. To this day there are many signs of this period, such as old forts and mission stations constructed during the 1800’s. 

Grahamstown in July is an experience not to be missed. Home of the National Arts Festival, this quaint mountain town is completely transformed into a festive wonder each year, showcasing some of the best indigenous and imported talents.

The magnificent Wild Coast also forms part of this beautiful province, as do the cities of Port Elizabeth and East London. Join a guided tour of the "townships", visit a traditional "shebeen" or drinking house, and meet the vibrant people of this region.

An added attraction of the Eastern Cape is the easy access to beautiful sandy beaches, intimate sea-side hamlets, surfing mecca’s like Jeffreys Bay, the magnificent Tsitsikamma National Park where you can enjoy activities such as the well known Otter Trail, mountain biking and forest hiking, tree top tours, boat trips, scuba diving and bungee jumping – the highest in the world!

Like the sound of it? We will give you tips on the best beaches, the best game reserves and the finest accommodation - ask now!