Eastern Cape
Why visit the Eastern Cape?
The Eastern Cape is justifiably known for its many excellent malaria-free wildlife reserves, but there is so much more to this exciting and scenically beautiful province. From Tsitsikamma National Park, at the end of the Garden Route, up to Port Edward, the region traverses over 600 miles of wide-open spaces and big skies with rolling hills and a sparsely populated coastline. It’s perfect for self-drive explorations.
Addo Elephant National Park and a host of private wildlife reserves offer wonderful safari experiences all set against a backdrop of green hills and rivers. The malaria-free safaris here are popular with families, and our team will happily advise on family-friendly lodges or exclusive use villas.
The coastline is known for its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs and charming coastal towns each with its own unique appeal: the picturesque canals and whitewashed houses of St Francis Bay, the laid-back charm and excellent surf spots at Jeffreys Bay or the quiet beaches, estuaries and dunes of peaceful Kenton-on-Sea.
Between East London and KwaZulu-Natal, the aptly-named Wild Coast has a rugged beauty characterised by rocky headlands, secluded bays and wide, unspoiled beaches. It’s along this coast that you may spot the annual sardine run, a mass migration of sardines and the predators that follow. Crammed with hidden gems, the Wild Coast is a joy to explore.
Discover the Eastern Cape
Where to visit in the Eastern Cape?
Garden Route
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"The best trip we have ever had and we have had some wonderful holidays. Africa is a very special place - we will definitely be returning to South Africa."
Mr S via The Travel Shop
"South Africa was absolutely fabulous. Too many highlights to mention. The “stand out” for us was definitely the Rovos Train. The helicopter flight over Victoria Falls was exciting & the Safari at Shamwari was superb! Driving the Garden route (& sometimes off the beaten track !) was stunning. Great memories of such a lovely country."
Mr & Mrs C-M via Embarque Travel
"We had an amazing time in South Africa, especially at Shamwari - what an incredible place it is. Thanks for your help in organising this holiday that we will always remember."
Family G via Swords Travel
How to Travel the Eastern Cape
Self-Drive Touring
A self-drive trip through the Eastern Cape will usually be the start or the end of your journey along the scenic Garden Route. Highlights include the historic forests of Tsitsikamma National Park and breath-taking coastal scenery and beaches. For the more adventurous, the remote areas of the Wild Coast, Graaff-Reinet and the Valley of Desolation will reveal yet more of the beautiful Eastern Cape. Our team will help you plan your route, book accommodation, and we provide driving directions to help you on your way.
Day Tours
The Eastern Cape has so many experiences to enjoy, these can range from the day safaris into the Addo Elephant Park, zip-wiring across tree lined gorges, beaches with world class surfing, guided walks through ancient forests or along dramatic coastal paths or historical tours of the area’s frontier towns, the choice is endless. If you wish to join either a group or have a private guide for the day to ensure you make the most of your stay then we can pre-book these for you.
Guided Journeys
Taking a small group tour lasting three to four days from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to Cape Town has always been a popular way to visit the scenic Garden Route and we offer a number of these tours. Or if preferred these tours can also be ‘linked’ to create an extensive two-week tour of South Africa. For a more bespoke tour we have access to a range of private guides who can offer the same routes but tailored to your needs and including hotels of your choice.
Flying
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Airport is a well serviced domestic airport with several carriers operating flights to and from either Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban and from where there are good connections to other regional flights within Africa or the UK. We have access to a competitive range of fares and the African Pride team can advise on the best routes to ensure an effortless journey and to combine all the areas you want to include in your holiday.
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South Africa is a year-round destination to visit, but being such a vast country the climate varies and some parts are better to visit at certain times of year.
If taking a safari in the Eastern Cape, wildlife viewing is not affected by the weather, seasons or time of year. Animals are active 365 days a year. If there is something you are specifically looking to see, ask our friendly tours consultants for their advice.
It’s recommended that you bring warmer clothing on safari, particularly during the winter months as it may be cold, especially on early morning and evening game drives.
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Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape is South Africa's second largest province. It has a varied landscape including malaria-free games reserves, a rugged coastline, rolling hills and mountains and the Wild Coast.
Why Travel with African Pride?
Be inspired by the African Pride Brochure
Explore some of the best experiences that Africa and the Indian Ocean has to offer in the African Pride brochure.
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How to plan a holiday
Your choice of holiday and safari to Africa & the Indian Ocean will be unique to you.
Using our extensive knowledge, experience and passion for Africa built up over many years, we are perfectly placed to tailor your personalised itinerary.
Choose your preferred destinations or experiences to include in a holiday
Talk to your travel adviser or us about your holiday requirements
We use our expertise to design an ideal holiday based on your preferences
We use the latest deals and offers for the best price available at the time
Special occasion? We can suggest little extras and hidden gems
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