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A First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Eastern Cape

A First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Eastern Cape

Visiting the Eastern Cape is a fantastic experience we can vouch for – and we’re not just saying that because we live here! Just take it from the 5.7 million domestic tourists who visited us last year.

To give you an idea of what our province has to offer, we’re taking you on a virtual tour of our most popular tourist spots and the most exciting activities you should definitely try. Read on below!

What is Eastern Cape well-known for?

The Eastern Cape is well-known for its beautiful surfing spots and breathtaking safaris. Its pristine coastline and abundant wildlife are what make this area a tourist hotspot.

Below are some of the spots that we think should be on your bucket list.

1. Surfing Spots

Jeffreys Bay

Jeffreys Bay
Photo by NJR ZA from Wikimedia Commons
AddressSouthwest of Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa
HoursAlways open

Fondly called J-Bay by locals, Jeffreys Bay is one of the world’s best surfing spots.

The area has different sections but the most popular one is the Supertubes. It goes up to 300 metres high during peak surfing season between the months of May and September.

But more than a place to surf, you’ll also get a fill of seafood delicacies while you’re here. We highly recommend Ocean Basket or Catch of the Day, two of our favourite restaurants in town that serve the freshest seafood.

Coffee Bay

Coffee Bay
Photo by jbdodane from Flickr
AddressWild Coast, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Business hoursAlways open
Websitehttp://coffeebay.co.za/

Don’t miss the chance to suit up in your best swimwear and soak in the warm waters of Coffee Bay Beach. It’s a pristine area with fine sand that’s perfect for long walks under the sun (or stars).

The Coffee Bay may be a small community but it has big things to offer for travellers and locals alike. It’s a picturesque location on the Wild Coast with both a traditional and modern feel.

If you have extra time, we also recommend taking a stroll to the Hole in the Wall. It’s an underrated spot with a scenic view, making you feel as if you were the main character of a Nollywood film!

2. Safaris

Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park
Photo by Brian Snelson from Flickr
AddressAddo, 6105, South Africa
Business hours7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Websitehttps://www.addo.org.za/
Contact+27 42 233 8600
RatesFor South African citizens and residents with ID presented:

R94 for adults (per day)
R47 for kids (per day)

For SADC Nationals with passport presented:

R188 for adults (per day)
R94 for kids (per day)

For international visitors:
R376 for adults (per day)
R188 for kids (per day)

The Addo Elephant National Park was initially made to save 11 local elephants from facing extinction. Now, it’s the home of over 600 elephants!

We now know it today as the third largest national park in the country that houses the Big 5; namely lions, leopards, rhinos, cape buffalos and, of course, elephants.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by their staff and guided to your chosen itinerary, whether it’s a tour of the park or checking into your preferred accommodation.

With the help of their friendly and knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn more about the different animals you’ll see during your tour while they are in their natural habitat.

However, you can also opt to drive yourself around the area if you want. Fair warning though, there may be a few bumps along the way because of the uneven terrain!

Mountain Zebra National Park

Mountain Zebra National Park
Photo by fiverlocker from Flickr
AddressNear Cradock, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Business hours7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Contact+27 48 801 5700
RatesR157 for adults(excluding additional tax charges)

Situated a few kilometres from the town of Cradock, the Mountain Zebra National Park houses a large number of wildlife species – yes, not just zebras!

Like the Addo Elephant National Park, this reserve was created to save the decreasing number of Cape Mountain zebras and it definitely worked wonders. Another win for Mother Earth!

It’s now the home of a big population of zebras along with other animals like springboks, kudus, cheetahs, birds and many more.

Once you get here, you might want to cross your fingers – and toes for extra luck! – for a chance to get a glimpse of the elusive aardwolf.

In case you don’t know what that is, it’s a type of hyena that hardly shows itself and often hides underground, earning its name the ‘earth-wolf’ in our local language.

But aside from the diverse species, you’ll love walking around the park because of its beautiful scenery. The lodges are also clean and well-maintained so booking a night would be a lovely idea.

It’s also a great way to be closer to nature so it’s worth a try, especially if you have lots of time to spare.

They have a kitchen and lounge area for you to wind down and enjoy the stillness in the middle of the wilderness. You can even set up a braai with your friends and family while you’re here!

What are the best adventure activities in Eastern Cape?

1. Bungee Jumping

1. Bungee Jumping
Photo by Andy Stoll from Flickr

There’s nothing like bungee jumping to get your blood pumping – and Bloukrans Bridge is a superb place to take the plunge!

The bridge is famously known as a Guinness World Record holder with the highest bridge bungee jump that’s 709 feet – chills, we know – above the Bloukrans River. You can find it near Nature’s Valley, bordering the Eastern and Western Cape.

Of course, before you get started on the fun, you’ll be given all the necessary safety (is South Africa safe to live in) briefings. 

To make the most of the experience, we recommend wearing comfortable clothes like a shirt and sweatpants.

Pro tip: Leave your cameras with friends or staff so that they can capture your (literal) leap of faith!

We know it can be scary, but do challenge yourself to keep your eyes open so that you can take in the amazing views of the nearby mountains. We promise it’s worth it!

You’ll even get a jump certificate after it to commemorate the experience.

Where You Can Book

  1. Bloukrans Bungy- Face Adrenaline

Contact: +27 42 281 1458

Rate/s: starts at R1,670.57

Inclusions:

Free cancellation

Safety briefing

Zipline access to the bridge

World’s best bungee

Winch recovery ride

216-meter SkyWalk

Jump Certificate

  1. Afroventures Tours & Safaris

Contact: +27 60 630 2633

Rate/s: R5,200 per person

Inclusions:

Bungee jump at Bloukrans

9,000 feet tandem skydive over Jeffrey’s Bay

Driver and guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Air-conditioned transport

2. Quad Biking

2. Quad Biking
Photo from wallpaperflare.com

Adrenaline junkies, we know quad biking is the right fit for you! Not only do you get to indulge your need for speed – you get to soak in great views while you’re at it, too.

It’s an exciting activity that’s suitable for kids and adults alike. Even if it’s your first time, you don’t have to worry because all quad bike tour areas are easy to navigate and you have the option to get a guide.

Plus, you’ll be given proper instructions beforehand which are easy to follow, especially for beginners.

As you feel the wind in your hair, don’t forget to take a moment to look around you too. The area’s breathtaking flora and fauna are a feast for the eyes!

Where You Can Book

  1. Tsitsikamma Adventure Land

Contact: +27 79 715 4621

Rate/s: starts at R775.46

Inclusions:

Bottled water

Quick informative safety briefing

Practice ride on the ATV

Ride the Quad Bike along the Garden Route

Areena Riverside Resort

Contact: +27 43 734 3055

Rate/s: 

R240 per person for 20 minutes tour

R450 per person for 60 minutes tour

R600 per person for 120 minutes tour

Inclusions:

Guided quad bike safari tours

Three tour duration options: 20 minutes, 60 minutes, 120 minutes

Rundown on how to ride a quad bike

Going around the 400-hectare private game reserve

  1. Segway Wild Coast Sun

Contact: +27 78 458 0055

Rate/s: R450 per driver with an additional R140 if there is a passenger on the bike (for 30 minutes)

Inclusions:

Extreme Quad Tour of the Wild Coast

Customised off-road experience

3. Abseiling 

3. Abseiling
Photo by garethphoto from Flickr

Abseiling in the Eastern Cape is perfect for active individuals with a thirst for nature. It’s a great way to get that workout in while taking in the gorgeous scenery.

Also known as rappelling, abseiling involves descending down a rope at a controlled pace using a friction device or descender.

If you’re worried about the safety part, fret not because the guides of these tours have thoroughly checked all the equipment to be used. You’ll also have a trusted companion the entire time so keep calm and enjoy the experience.

Where You Can Book

  1. Areena Riverside Resort

Contact: +27 43 734 3055

Rate/s: R550 per person 

(*note: must be a minimum of six people and arranged 2 weeks before)

Inclusions:

Experienced guide

Safety equipment like helmet and harness

  1. Hogsback Adventures

Contact: +27 74 721 4885 or +27 73 567 9487

Rate/s: R760 for two adults

(*note: each booking should have at least 2 participants)

Inclusions:

Abseiling 35 metres down from the famous Madonna and Child Waterfall

Safety equipment like a helmet and harness

4. Horseback Riding

4. Horseback Riding
Photo from tripadvisor.co.za

There’s something magical about riding your stallion along the beautiful coastline of the Eastern Cape.

Even if you’re a beginner, you won’t have to worry about your safety or skills because it’s fairly easy to learn horseback riding. Plus, you’ll have a guide by your side to look after you the entire time.

Also! Don’t forget to put on lots of sunblock all over your face and body so you can protect your skin while you’re out under the sun.

Where You Can Book

  1. Featherfoot Horse Riding and Beach Trails

Contact: +27 72 396 6848

Rate/s: around R2,422.58 per person

Inclusions:

Horseback riding experience along Jeffrey’s Bay

Two daily trails: sunrise and sunset

Knowledgeable and friendly guide

  1. Wild Coast Horse Riding Adventures

Contact: +27 82 567 0972

Rate/s: starts at R2,300 per person

Inclusions:

Two different ride lengths: 1 hour and 30 minutes, and 2 hours and 30 minutes

Horse Trail tour in the Wild Coast

Fit horses

Experienced rider guides

Accommodation options (for those who want to stay a night or more)

  1. Amakhala Horse Trails

Contact: +27 42 235 1109

Rate/s: R1,200 per person

Inclusions:

Two to three hours of riding time

Provided equestrian helmet

Horse Trail tour of the Amakhala Game Reserve

Expert guide

5. Hiking

5. Hiking
Photo from drivesouthafrica.com

Miley Cyrus once sang, “Life’s a climb, but the view is great.” You’ll get a taste of what she’s talking about by going on a hiking tour in the Eastern Cape.

Whether it’s wandering through Coffee Bay or passing through the Wild Coast, you’ll get to sweat it all out as you bask in the panoramic views of the coastline.

If you’re up for a challenge, try the Amatola hiking trail – FYI, it’s 100 kilometres long! – which starts at Maden Dam and ends with a turn around the Hogsback Mountains.

But for something fairly easy, the Tsitsikamma Big Tree trail is great and it’s only 1.3 kilometres, taking around 20 minutes to complete.

Where You Can Book

  1. Afroventures Tours & Safaris

Contact: +27 83 656 4350

Rate/s: R8,800 per person

Inclusions:

5-Day Central Wild Coast Tour

Meals for the entire tour

4 nights accommodation

Guided hikes from Lubanzi to Coffee Bay and Coffee Bay to Mdumbi

Kayaking on Mdumbi River

  1. Areena Riverside Resort

Contact: +27 43 734 3055

Rate/s: 

R500 as minimum fee

R150 per person if more than 4 participants

Inclusions:

Bottled water

Expert guide

  1. Wild Side Hiking

Contact: +27 71 706 7590

Rate/s: around R5,359.24 per person (but the price varies on group’s size)

Inclusions:

Wild Coast 5-Day Hike

Meals for all days

Private transportation

All extra fees and taxes on visited attractions

6. Kayaking

6. Kayaking
Photo from visiteasterncape.co.za

Kayaking is a great idea because it allows you to observe the quiet and breathtaking scenery of the lakes and lagoons of the Eastern Cape at a leisurely pace.

What’s more, this activity can be done by both kids and adults. We can all have fun without leaving anyone behind!

Where You Can Book

  1. Crisscross Adventures

Contact: +27 83 330 0480

Rate/s: R700 per person

Inclusions:

Drinks and snacks

Waterproof buckets

Paddles

Life jackets

  1. Pro Dive Port Elizabeth

Contact: +27 41 581 1144

Rate/s: R495 per kayak

Inclusions:

Single or double kayaks

Life jackets

Safety briefing

7. Paragliding

7. Paragliding
Photo from peakpx.com

You’ll feel your breath being taken away (literally!) when you try paragliding in the Eastern Cape. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be on every adventure lover’s bucket list!

While you’re up in the sky for around 10 to 20 minutes, you’ll get to see the beautiful sights of our province. 

Whether it’s the sand dunes of Port Elizabeth or the stunning coastline of The Garden Route, there are a lot of fantastic views to uncover as you take flight.

If you’re doing it alone and feel a bit nervous, we suggest tandem paragliding, where your guide will manoeuvre the glider for you.

Where You Can Book

  1. AirVentures Paragliding

Contact: +27 78 374 3612

Rate/s: R1,500 per person

Inclusions:

Glider

Trusted guide

Safety equipment

  1. Flytime Paragliding

Contact: +27 72 612 8168

Rate/s:

R1,100 for Standard Tandem Flight

R1,600 for Adventure Tandem Flight

R300 for GoPro Video and Photos

Inclusions:

Safety demonstration

Within 10 to 20 minutes on air, depending on chosen package

Experienced instructor

8. Scuba Diving

8. Scuba Diving
Photo from sa-venues.com

Scuba diving is a relatively ‘gentler’ introduction to ocean life – but it’s an adventure nonetheless. As you glide underwater, you’ll find intricate coral reefs and alluring sea creatures like turtles, manta, eagle rays and more.

But be on the lookout for sharks too! They’re very common in the Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces but they’re not as dangerous as you might think.

They don’t attack humans so you can look at them from a safe distance with your guide.

If this is going to be your first time, you can even enrol in beginner diver courses to learn everything from scratch under professional supervision.

Where You Can Book

  1. Pro Dive Port Elizabeth

Contact: +27 41 581 1144

Rate/s: R100 per person

Inclusions:

Quick beginner course 

Scuba diving equipment (e.g. snorkel and fins)

2. Untouched Adventures

Contact: +27 73 130 0689

Rate/s: 

R190 per diver 

R260 per diver with full gear and cylinder fill

Inclusions:

Scuba diving equipment (e.g. snorkel and fins)

Guided dives (if preferred)

3. Offshore Africa

Contact: +27 82 256 9414

Rate/s: varies on chosen itinerary

Inclusions:

Customised scuba diving experience

Complete diving equipment

Photos (if requested)

Experienced guides

9. Surfing

9. Surfing
Photo from South African Tourism from Flickr

Riding the waves is like wading through life’s ups and downs – at least that’s how surfers love to describe it. There are always times when you’ll lose your balance but eventually, you get back up and be ready again to face new challenges.

Cheesiness aside, surfing is a popular adventure activity because it pushes you out of your comfort zone. If you’re worried about your lack of skills, there are loads of beginner classes offered by various schools near the area. 

Where You Can Book

  1. Wavecrest Surf School

Contact: +27 73 509 0400

Rate/s:

R350 per person for group surfing lessons

R550 for private surfing lessons

R300 for surfboard rental only (full day)

Inclusions:

2-hour surfing lessons

Board

Wetsuit

  1. Salted Surf School & Cafe

Contact: +27 76 501 6191

Rate/s:

R340 per person for beginner group class

R420 per person for intermediate group class

R600 per person for advanced group class

R425 for a private group lesson (minimum of 3 people)

R490 for private beginner lesson

R70 for wetsuit rental of 2 hours

R150 for wetsuit rental for a full day

R130 for surfboard rental of 2 hours 

R250 for surfboard rental for a full day

Inclusions:

Experienced instructor

Wetsuit

Board

  1. Jeffreys Bay Adventures

Contact: +27 42 293 4214

Rate/s: starts at R2,392 per adult (but the price varies on group size)

Inclusions:

2-hour surfing lessons

Meals and accommodation for those with overnight stays

Board

Wetsuit

Experienced instructors

10. Ziplining

10. Ziplining
Photo from sa-venues.com

The thought of zipping through a cable may sound terrifying, but we know a lot of people with a fear of heights who overcame it with this activity!

This experience will let you see the different forests and rivers of the Eastern Cape while zipping through the air. If that doesn’t make your heart thump in excitement, we don’t know what else will!

You can even take a video of your tour to document your real-time reactions. Don’t be afraid to let it all out and scream while in flight – trust us, it’ll feel so therapeutic!

Where You Can Book

  1. Areena Riverside Resort

Contact: +27 43 734 3055

Rate/s: R500 per person

Inclusions:

Complete zipline tour (with a minimum of 6 people)

Safety gear

Quick briefing

  1. Adrenaline Addo

Contact: +27 78 911 1619

Rate/s:

R370 per person for adults in regular zip line

R270 per person for kids (below 13 years old) in regular zip line

R450 per person for adults in superman zip line

R350 per person for kids (below 13 years old) in superman zip line

Inclusions:

Unique zipline experience with a hike through Addo’s indigenous bush

Safety gear

  1. Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours

Contact: +27 79 492 0467

Rate/s: R550 per person

Inclusions:

Complete zipline tour with 8 slides

Safety gear

11. Sandboarding & Sledding

11. Sandboarding & Sledding
Photo from manawa.com

Now, you might have heard of gliding through the snow or the sea. But it’s also possible to skid through sand dunes!

There are two specific activities you can do in the sand, either sandboarding or sledding. The main difference between them is how you position yourself on the board.

The former makes you stand on it while the latter allows you to sit on it while you wade through the sand.

You can’t go wrong with either of these activities as they’re both perfect for thrill-seekers!

Where You Can Book

  1. Addo Sand Sledding

Contact: +27 41 468 0140

Rate/s:

R400 per child for 12 years old and younger

R700 per adult

Inclusions:

Boards/sand sleds

Experienced instructor

Return cruise to Dune Fields

Safety gear

Toilet facilities

Blankets

Poncho’s

Light snacks and refreshments

  1. Crisscross Adventures

Contact: +27 83 330 0480

Rate/s: R500 per person

Inclusions:

2 hours of using the boards or sand sleds provided

Guided tour

Ferry boat ride

Safety gear

  1. Jeffreys Bay Adventures

Contact: +27 42 293 4214

Rate/s: 

R250 per adult

R200 per kid under 16 years old

Inclusions:

2 hours of using the boards or sand sleds provided

Safety gear

Experienced instructor

12. Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)

12. Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Photo from myguideeasterncape.com

Contrary to what you might think, learning stand-up paddle boarding is relatively easy, even if it’s your first time. Once you get used to standing on top of the board while slowly wading through the water, you’ve pretty much got it down already.

Regardless of your age or weight, you can do this adventure activity in the Eastern Cape.

Don’t hesitate to approach your guide and ask for tips on how to be better at it.

Where You Can Book

  1. JBay Wind

Contact: +27 82 507 8887

Rate/s: R310 per person

Inclusions:

Paddle

Boards

Guide

  1. Jeffreys Bay Adventures

Contact: +27 42 293 4214

Rate/s: R250 per person for 2 hours

Inclusions:

Transport to and from the SUP adventure point

Board

Paddle

FAQs on the Eastern Cape


If we missed out on any local spots or fun activities that you tried, let us know by commenting down below!


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