Eastern Cape

Welcome to the Eastern Cape, boasting one of the most remarkable coastlines in the world and an incredible diverse range of landscapes and experiences.

From the Big 5 to the natural beauty of the Tsitsikamma Forest, to the Baviaanskloof wilderness area and the stark beauty of the Karoo. The region also offers invigorating city experiences and a wide selection of "must-see" tourist attractions, many of which are competely unique to the Eastern Cape.

With so much on offer, it can be hard to decide on the best itinerary for your Eastern Cape tour.

At Africapass we understand this all too well and are happy to assist you in putting together the ideal tour or holiday to suit your unique preferences and budget.


Few places in the world boast such a combination of unrivalled splendour and stark contrasts as the Eastern Cape, from the lush Tsitsikamma Forest in the west to the Amatola mountains in the east. In the interior is the Karoo with its abundant wildlife, while in contrast there is the Indian Ocean coastline, with its aptly named ‘Sunshine Coast’ and ‘Wild Coast’. The Eastern Cape is the traditional home of the Xhosa people.

The province boasts a wealth of flora and fauna, including the ‘Big Five’ in a malaria free area. Conservation areas include the Mountain Zebra National Park and the Addo Elephant National Park.

In the malaria free Eastern Cape, several private game reserves offer a fabulous game viewing experience, while Addo Elephant National Park, becoming increasingly popular, is a wonderland of free roaming elephants in their natural surroundings.

Tsitsikamma

Called the ‘place of sparkling waters’ by the ancient San people, the high mountains, deep gorges and rugged coastline are covered with tall, indigenous forests and vast tracts of the Cape’s fynbos. Storms River Village is the hub of adventure tours with opportunities for the adventurous or the more laid backperson.

Cape St Francis with its historic lighthouse, is a tranquil eco-destination, whilst Jeffreys Bay with its endless beaches and perfect waves is the surfing mecca of South Africa.

Graaff-Reinet, Established in 1786, it was ideally suited for settlement by the trekboers.  The 4th oldest town in the country, it boasts 250 National Monument buildings, some considered the pinnacle of the Cape Dutch style of architecture.  It is surrounded by the Karoo Nature Reserve where game and birds abound. A big attraction is the extraordinary geology of the mountains that create the famous joint dolerite pillars of the Valley of Desolation.

Experience true Karoo hospitality on a working sheep farm close to the world renowned hamlet of Nieu Bethesda, where you can see the strange creations of artist Helen Martins at the Owl House.

Port Elizabeth, Often referred to as ‘The Friendly City’, this value-for-money holiday destination together with Uitenhage and Despatch forms the Nelson Mandela Bay offering magnificent beaches, hotels and restaurants. Port Elizabeth dates back to the arrival of four thousand British Settlers in 1820.  Sir Rufane Donkin, Acting Governor of the Cape Colony at the time, named the city after his late wife Elizabeth. If you enjoy walking and the outdoors you need look no further than Settlers Park in the city or Cape Recife Nature Reserve between the city and the sea.

Grahamstown. This city of saints (churches) was at one time the second largest town in Southern Africa.  Whether you are attending one of the six national events celebrated each year, the National Arts Festival being the largest or visiting at any other time, you cannot help but be caught up in the sense of history and culture pervading this intriguing town.  From here, explore the Settler Frontier and nearby beaches of Port Alfred and Kenton-on Sea.

East London known as Buffalo City, the heartbeat of the Eastern Cape, is steeped in Xhosa and Settler history.


Alice is the seat of the University of Fort Hare, where many of the current political leaders were educated. It is also the alma mater of former President Nelson Mandela. It is the repository of the archives of the African National Congress and houses one of the most significant collections of African art.

The Wild Coast

This is an almost untouched paradise with kilometres of unspoiled coastline, a family and adventure destination. It offers fishing, hiking, birding, horse riding, countless natural attractions and a rich cultural heritage; truly an unforgettable experience.