Eastern Cape

The second largest of South Africa's provinces, the Eastern Cape is a region of endless variety: from the arid Karoo to the lush, rolling green hills & rugged cliffs of the Wild Coast.  Endless, untamed sandy beaches. The land of lores and magic.  Hogsback. The Valley of Desolation and the Plains of Cambdeboo. This is historical frontier and settler country, with a raw and magical beauty. It's also the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, former South African President, global icon and the father of the nation.

It's largest city is Port Elizabeth, the fifth largest city in South Africa and host city for the 2010 FIFA (TM) World Cup with its newly-built Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. 

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Top 10 Attractions:

• Greater Addo Elephant malaria-free game reserves
• Pristine Wild Coast beaches
• Sunshine Coast beaches - from Port Elizabeth to Kei River
• Frontier Country - steeped in historical land battles with early settlers from Europe
• Haunting Valley of Desolation, outside Graaff-Reinet (4th oldest town in South Africa)
• Ancient seat of the Xhosa people, and home to many of South Africa's foremost leaders like Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Chris Hani, Alfred Nzo, Oliver Tambo - with a rich tradition of tribal rites and customs
• Tiffendel - South Africa's only snow-skiing resort
• Geological and naturally fascinating Baviaanskloof (valley of the baboons)
• Fossil-rich plains of the Karoo
• Helen Martin's facinating Owl House in Nieu Bethesda

The new Nelson Mandela Bay 2010 FIFA (TM) World Cup stadium appears to 'float' on the shores of Port Elizabeth.








For more info, visit Eastern Cape Tourism