travelandhome logo

We couldn’t find anything for that search. But we’d love to know what you’re looking for — feel free to drop a comment on any post and tell us what you’d like to see next.

Show me more

Home - Africa - Eastern Cape Travel Guide: Things to Do, Must-See Places + Fun Facts

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

We link to affiliated partners at no extra cost to you. 

Eastern Cape Travel Guide: Things to Do, Must-See Places & Fun Facts

The Eastern Cape is one of South Africa’s most diverse provinces — a place where rugged coastlines meet rolling mountains, and vibrant culture blends with unforgettable wildlife. From world-class surfing in Jeffreys Bay to elephant encounters at Addo, this province is packed with reasons to make it your next adventure.

The Pier in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province, Travel South Africa
The Pier in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
FLY FOR LESS with Travelstart.

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) is the Eastern Cape’s busiest and most important air hub. The airport (IATA code PLZ, ICAO code FAPE) serves as the main gateway to the province, especially for travelers heading to the popular Garden Route, Addo Elephant National Park, and coastal destinations.

Other airports in the province:

  • King Phalo Airport (East London): Serves the Wild Coast and Sunshine Coast regions.

  • K. D. Matanzima Airport (Mthatha): Smaller, domestic-focused airport connecting rural Eastern Cape.

What You’ll Find in This Guide

Border Overview Of The Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape is pretty well connected to other provinces in South Africa. To the west you’ve got the Western Cape, which makes road-tripping between Cape Town and the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast super doable. Swinging north, the province touches the Northern Cape and the Free State, so you can move from rugged coastline into mountain and inland landscapes without skipping a beat. On the northeast side, it borders KwaZulu-Natal, which means you can easily combine a beach holiday with a cultural adventure. And then, of course, there’s Lesotho tucked up against the northern edge, plus that long stretch of Indian Ocean coastline to the south.

⭐ Did You Know?

  • Birthplace of Icons: The Eastern Cape is home to some of South Africa’s most influential leaders, including Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki. Villages like Qunu and Mvezo are now popular heritage sites.
  • Language & Culture: The dominant language here is isiXhosa, spoken by the majority of residents. The province is rich in Xhosa traditions, music, and storytelling.
  • Historic City: Grahamstown (Makhanda) is known as the “City of Saints” thanks to its many churches, and it hosts the annual National Arts Festival, the largest arts festival in Africa.
  • Coastal Length: The Eastern Cape has a coastline stretching over 800 km, giving travelers endless opportunities for beach escapes.
Tsitsikamma National Park, Eastern Cape Province, Travel South Africa
Tsitsikamma National Park

7 Reasons For Going To The Eastern Cape Province

  1. Wild Coast Beauty: The Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast is known for its unspoiled beaches, rugged cliffs, and traditional Xhosa villages, providing a unique and off-the-beaten-path coastal experience.
  2. Historical Significance: The province is rich in history, with landmarks like the Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu and the town of Grahamstown, known for its historical architecture.
  3. Great Fish River Canyon: This breathtaking canyon offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for nature photography.
  4. Beautiful Beaches: The province features some pristine beaches, like Jeffreys Bay for surfers and the tranquil beaches around Port Alfred and Kenton-on-Sea.
  5. Garden Route Connection: The Eastern Cape forms part of the famous Garden Route, offering travelers the chance to explore even more of South Africa’s natural beauty.
  6. Spectacular Scenery: From the rolling hills of the Amathole Mountains to the lush Tsitsikamma Forest, the Eastern Cape’s landscapes are both diverse and stunning.
  7. Friendly Locals: The people of the Eastern Cape are known for their hospitality.
Storms River Canyon, Tsitsikamma, Eastern Cape Province in South Africa
Storms River Canyon

7 Best Things To Do

If you can’t be in KZN for the once-in-a-lifetime sardine experience, well then, I have good news. The sardine run is not exclusive to KwaZulu-Natal. You can also catch it along the coastlines of East London, Port St. Johns, Coffee Bay, and Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).

  1. Addo Elephant National Park: Home to over 600 elephants along with lions, buffalo, and black rhinos, this park offers exceptional game-viewing opportunities, making it one of the best safari destinations outside the Paul Kruger National Park. Addo Elephant National Park is located about 75 km (roughly an hour’s drive) northeast of Port Elizabeth (now called Gqeberha).

    • 💡Travel Tip: If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha, then drive or book a transfer to Addo. It’s one of the most convenient safari experiences in South Africa thanks to its proximity.

  2. Adventure Activities: From hiking along the iconic Otter Trail to bungee jumping off the Bloukrans Bridge, the Eastern Cape offers a wide range of adventure activities.
  3. Cultural Experiences: The Eastern Cape is a melting pot of cultures, with Xhosa traditions and customs being a significant part of the province’s identity.
  4. Wildlife and Nature Reserves: Beyond Addo, the province is home to numerous private and public game reserves that offer diverse wildlife experiences and support conservation efforts. Like the 2-hour game drive in Plettenberg Bay and swimming with the seals in Plettenberg Bay.
  5. Whale Watching: Certain coastal areas, such as Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and Plettenberg Bay, offer excellent opportunities for spotting whales during the migration season.
  6. Scenic Hikes: The Otter Trail is officially the oldest and undoubtedly the most iconic and most popular hiking trail in South Africa. It is named for the Cape clawless otter, which occurs in this region.
  7. Surfing Paradise: “Few people realize that South Africa is one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. Waves are reliable and charismatic. Its eastern shores that fringe the Indian Ocean are empty and warm. One-on-one surf lessons are more affordable than group sessions in Cornwall.” – Resource: The Telegraph

Jeffrey’s Bay, the country’s most popular surfing beach, may have smaller waves, but it is super scenic. The water is at a pleasant temperature, a blend of the Atlantic and Indian oceans. It is also home to the Billabong Pro surfing competition, held in July each year.

Bloukrans Bridge, Adventure, Bungee Jumping, Tsitsikamma, Eastern Cape Province in South Africa
Bloukrans Bridge

Traveling through the Eastern Cape is more than a holiday — it’s a journey through history, nature, and culture. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring heritage sites, or soaking up the Wild Coast’s beauty, the province leaves you with memories that linger long after you’ve left.

💬 We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite Eastern Cape experience — or the one you’re dreaming of? Drop a comment below and let’s share travel inspiration together!

X
Facebook
Telegram
WhatsApp

Comments