The Eastern Cape Province of South Africa boasts some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the country, thanks to its maintaining a relatively unspoilt characteristic. These include magnificent stretches of coastline and safe swimming beaches. The landscape showcases mountains, valleys, forests and plains, all of which are home to a unique combination of fauna and flora.
The climate of this part of South Africa is particularly temperate. Summers are hot and slightly humid, while winters are cool, but mild. Summer highs seldom exceed 32 degrees Celsius, while winter daytime lows usually hover around 15 to 18 degrees along the coast. Inland, however, winter snows are occasionally experienced, and summers can become significantly warmer.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions of the Eastern Cape:
The Addo Elephant National Park
Home to about 500 free-roaming African Elephants; as well as lion, buffalo, zebra, ostrich, warthog, plenty of antelope species and the famous endemic flightless dung beetle; Addo is a wonderful way to enjoy the abundance of the Eastern Cape. Self-driven tours as well as formal safaris are available, and there are a number of fantastic observation points around the park and its watering holes. There is a large braai and picnic area as well as a restaurant, curio shop and camping grounds. See Addo Elephant Park on SANParks.
Tiffindell Ski Resort
This fully equipped ski and snowboarding resort is situated in the Highlands of the province, where wintertime snow is abundant. There is also man-made snow to ensure fabulous skiing opportunities for as long as possible. Other local activities in the winter include tobogganing and snow fights. Summer is equally exciting and visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, fly fishing and more. The resort has world-class facilities; including conference facilities, a ski school, ski shop, restaurant and accommodation.
Storms River and Tsitsikamma
The exquisite area of Storms River and Tsitsikamma showcases the natural splendour of the province to perfection. The region is characterised by dense forests, which adorn mountains and valleys. The Storms River leads out into the sea, and the river mouth continues to be an incredible sight to behold. This area is an adventure sport hotspot, and those in search of a rush, or those that simply love being outside, can look forward to walks, hikes, blackwater tubing, horse riding, and ziplining.
Jeffrey’s Bay
The surfing Mecca of Jeffrey’s Bay continues to be one of the most popular surfing spots in the world. The water is warm and the waves consistently impressive. Every year, surfers and bodyboarders from around the world descend on this coastal village to enjoy days spent challenging the waves under the hot South African sun. There is more to this town than surfing, of course. You will be spoilt for choice by the selection of available rooms in Jeffreys Bay and it has an arty, relaxed vibe that is quite unique, making it a really appealing retreat.
Bloukrans Bungy
As the highest commercial bungy jump (at a breath-taking 216 metres high), Bloukrans Bridge promises even the bravest of visitors an experience that will test the limits of their adrenalin. In addition to a traditional bungy jump, there are walking tours that take place on a pathway suspended under the bridge, which offers magnificent views with a distinct sense of excitement. See Face Adrenaline for details!
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