Running along the abundant Sundays River, just outside the Eastern Cape’s Port Elizabeth, the idyllic Sundays River Valley is an extraordinary area boasting several unique towns and attractions. Among numerous game reserves and nature parks, the famous Addo Elephant Park provides a wonderland of magnificent scenery and an abundance of wildlife including all members of the Big Five. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities along the river, including fishing, canoeing, and boat trips, and in the neighbouring dunes, try their hands at sandboarding. The area produces delicious, sweet citrus fruit, and in October, the valley is filled with orange blossoms. The 'Wildfees' brings Sundays River Valley to life in June with a celebration that includes concerts, wildlife expos, and stalls. Make sure to visit the popular Nanaga Farm Stall for its famous pies and deli items.
Situated in the upper valley of the Great Fish River, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province, the historical town of Cradock is a typical Karoo farming town. It is characterised by elegant buildings and grand old oak trees, and produces some of the country’s finest wool and mohair. Set on the banks of the river, Cradock witnessed the beginnings of the Great Trek, the ostrich boom of the early 1900s, and the conflict between the Boers and the local Xhosa people. Must-see attractions include the Old Water Mill; the fascinating Great Fish River Museum; and a natural-spring-turned-modern spa with outdoor and indoor heated pools.
This beguiling Eastern Cape village is nestled at the base of the Compassberg, the region’s highest mountain, and is a lush, sleepy place where life has changed little over the last century. Nieu-Bethesda is best known for The Owlhouse, the intriguing former abode of artist Helen Martins, who created a series of cement and glass sculptures throughout her home and garden. Now functioning as a museum, this unforgettable house is at once mystical, beautiful and eerie, allowing a glimpse into the life and mind of the mysterious Martins.
At the foot of the Sneeuberg mountain range, Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve spreads across the vast Karoo plains near Graaff-Reinet. Once farmland, the area was gradually transformed into a sanctuary for white rhino, Cape buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, mountain zebra, and various antelope. The varied landscape includes thorny valleys, rocky ridges, and wide open grassland. Visitors can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, along with activities such as swimming, guided nature walks, and 4x4 trails. Those keen to explore further can take excursions to the dramatic Valley of Desolation, a township tour, San rock art sites, the Gondwanaland Fossil Tour, and the charming town of Nieu Bethesda with its famous Owl House.
Situated on the shores of Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) is a laid-back coastal city known for its long beaches, rich wildlife and outdoor lifestyle. Often called the “Friendly City”, it combines an attractive seafront with easy access to some of the country’s most celebrated natural attractions. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing and dolphin watching along the city’s beaches, or explore the scenic coastal route that links parks, reserves and marine habitats. Gqeberha also serves as a gateway to the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, where elephants, lions and other wildlife can be seen. With its mild climate, ocean views and blend of urban amenities and nature, Gqeberha offers a well-rounded introduction to the Eastern Cape.
