What to do in Eastern Cape

Get up close to graceful African elephants and other members of South Africa’s “big five” at the Addo Elephant National Park. Explore hiking trails, join kayaking trips and enjoy breathtaking scenery. This huge national park spreads from South Africa’s semi-desert Karoo region, across the Zuurberg Mountains and through the Sundays River. It is home to almost 600 African elephants, which is one of the biggest densities in the world.

The magnificent Tsitsikamma National Park is spread over valleys, rugged mountains and a sweeping coastline. Hike through the scenic landscapes, explore the coursing Storms River and try extreme sports. Tsitsikamma National Park is part of the Garden Route National Park and stretches approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) along South Africa’s southern coast.

Experience close encounters with South Africa’s majestic animals at the Kragga Kamma Game Park. This well-maintained wildlife reserve spreads across about 500 acres (200 hectares) of sprawling savannas and verdant coastal forests. Kragga Kamma Game Park shelters members of South Africa’s famous Big Five animal species in addition to myriad birdlife. Learn about the park’s inhabitants on guided tours, snap memorable photographs and enjoy scenic picnics.

Whether you hit the beach to carve up the surf breaks, reel in a catch or simply relax on the sand, Nahoon Beach is a versatile getaway on the Wild Coast. Surf big waves, watch national surfing competitions and enjoy kayaking adventures. This area is also a popular destination for picturesque hikes and spectacular views of the coast. Nahoon Beach fronts a suburb of the same name, located a short drive east from East London’s city center.

Hobie Beach welcomes visitors to its shores for swimming, sunbathing and coastal adventures. It is an exciting destination for watching watersports competitions, spotting majestic whales and enjoying live music and cultural events. Hobie Beach is one of several beaches set on Algoa Bay and is within easy reach of Port Elizabeth’s city center.

The attractive Eastern Beach is one of East London’s most popular and centrally located beaches. Enjoy relaxed walks around a bay of golden sand backed by large dunes, watch talented surfers on the beach’s breaks and learn to catch a wave with a kitesurfing lesson.