Eastern Cape

Tucked away in the awe-inspiring landscape of the Eastern Cape province, this unique destination invites backpackers and cultural explorers to immerse themselves in the vibrant life of a traditional Xhosa community where sustainability is the order of the day.

The family-owned and -run Amakhala Safari Lodge was established on three pillars – conservation, community, and to be financially viable well into the future, so as to uphold its ongoing work in sustainable tourism. Nestled within the 8 000-hectare Amakhala Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape Province, the lodge is split among eight other owner-managed tourism properties.

Feast your eyes, feed your soul and be inspired by South Africa in full bloom… South Africa is unique. It is one country in the world where one can weave a vibrant tapestry of culture and heritage from the many and varied attractions, experiences and influences that permeate daily living.

This women's month, experience the Eastern Cape like never before with curated itineraries made just for you by South African Tourism and Netflix JIVA.

United Airlines has inaugurated its nonstop daily service between its New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport and O.R. Tambo International Airport, with the arrival of the first flight into Johannesburg on the 4th of June.

Home to glorious stretches of beaches, mountainous terrains, jaw-dropping rock formations, a rich catalogue of plant and wildlife which includes the Big 7 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo, Southern Right whales and Great White sharks), South Africa’s Eastern Cape province is also the birth place of the late global icon and humanitarian - Nelson Mandela. The acclaimed leader, whose birthday is celebrated globally through acts of kindness on 18 July, was born and raised amongst this province’s lush valleys and winding rivers.

Vervet monkeys are playful, mischievous primates that can be found all over eastern South Africa and are hugely entertaining to watch – as long as you keep the kitchen windows closed.

South Africa has plenty of idyllic spots around the country to attract fly-fishers, with 2 species of trout in our waters and a thriving support industry dedicated to great angling holidays.

South Africa has amazing trail-running terrain for visiting athletes, including mountains, forests, bushveld, beaches, savannahs and deserts – as well as some competitive runs to consider.

Visitors to South Africa should make sure they try Xhosa cuisine, whether in its Eastern Cape heartland or anywhere else that offers umngqusho, amasi, ikhowa and other delicacies.

Cultural villages and museums in South Africa are great places to learn more about Xhosa traditions and how these express the culture and beliefs of this ancient Eastern Cape people.

The Freedom Trail is an exhilarating mountain-bike route from East Coast to West Coast in South Africa that runs through some of the most spectacular natural beauty the country has to offer.