Get ready to be amazed:
15 Unique offbeat Eastern Cape Experiences
Discover. Explore. Experience - 15 OffBeat Eastern Cape things to do
Frog Safari
Venture out into the night to catch amazing amphibians!
Discover the wonders of these amazing amphibians while contributing to the conservation of frogs with this unique Eastern Cape experience. You will be taken aback by how incredible these little creatures are!
The frog safari starts with an early dinner at Dune Ridge Country House, followed by a talk by a local guide on the worldwide amphibian crisis and why it is so important to restore and protect the wetlands that are the chosen habitat of frogs.
You will then venture out to explore known frog hot spots where you will spot the frogs as well as catch, identify and list the species before safely returning them to their homes. Equipment including headlights and nets will be provided. Listen out for the unreal sounds that emanate from these little frogs.
End off the evening with a hot chocolate or a sherry at the guesthouse and a discussion on the evening.
Location: Greater St Francis Bay
Region: Sunshine Coast
Contact Details
Dune Ridge Country House
Tel:Â Â + 27 (0)42 294 1560Â |Â Â + 27 (0) 66 423 4795
Email:Â Â reservations@duneridgestfrancis.co.za
Website(s):Â https://duneridgestfrancis.co.za/
Useful links
Contact Details
Raggy Charters
Tel:Â 073 152 2277
Email:Â Â info@raggycharters.co.za
Southern Cross Cruises
Tel:Â 082 938 6275
Email:Â info@southerncrosseastlondon.co.za
St Francis Safaris
Tel:Â 082 569 3750
Email:Â Â safarisa@lantic.co.za
Offshore Africa Port St Johns
Tel: 084 951 1325
Email:Â Â info@offshoreportstjohns.com
Useful links
Website(s):Â Â https://www.raggycharters.co.za/
Coastal wonders on an ocean safari
Experience a close encounter with giants of the sea!
With over 800km of coastline, much of it unspoilt, the Eastern Cape is a paradise to explore the wildlife wonders of the ocean. It is also one of the few places in the world where one can experience the Big 7 (lion, rhino, leopard, buffalo, elephant, whale and shark). Nelson Mandela Bay is the bottlenose dolphin capital of world making it an essential stop for any marine wildlife enthusiast!
Ocean safaris are on offer all along the coast. Catch a glimpse or even have a close encounter with whales, dolphins, sharks, penguins, marine birdlife and other ocean fauna. Our temperate weather means that ocean safaris can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Plan your safari to coincide with natural phenomena for a truly unique experience such as the Sardine Run and whale migration.
Location: Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club, Nelson Mandela Bay
Region: Sunshine Coast
Fossil Experience in Nieu-Bethesda
Discover treasures from prehistoric eras!
The Eastern Cape is a region rich in history dating back to ancient times. There are many spots where one can see fossils from the pre-historic era as well as rock art and cave paintings of the Khoi-San people.Â
Ganora Guest Farm is a working sheep farm located just outside Nieu Bethesda in the foothills of the majestic Sneeuberg Range, sixty kilometres north of Graaff-Reinet in the Karoo Heartland. The farmstead and guest cottages are nestled deep within the slopes of the mountains and are surrounded by incredible rock formations and captivating fossil beds. Rock art and engraving dating back roughly 10 000 years tell the stories of the Bushmen who were the first inhabitants of the land. Enjoy guided walks and tours to fully experience the wonders of history.
Location: Nieu-Bethesda
Region: Karoo Heartland
Contact Details
Ganora Guest Farm
Contact:Â Hester Theron
Tel:Â Â +27 49 841 1302Â |Â Â +27 82 698 0029
Email:Â Â ganoraguestfarm@gmail.com
Website(s):Â https://www.ganora.co.za/
Useful links
Contact Details
Tiffendell Ski Resort
Tel:Â +27 11 781 2620
Email: Â reservations@snow.co.za
Useful Links
Website(s):Â https://www.tiffindell.co.za/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjeOjCSgQdA
Ben 10 Eco Challenge: https://www.mountainpassessouthafrica.co.za/find-a-pass/ben10.html
South Africa’s High 5: https://www.facebook.com/SouthAfricasHigh5/
Skiing and extreme sport
Get the adrenalin pumping with extreme sports!
Skiing in South Africa? We’ve got it here in the Eastern Cape. Explore the snowy slopes at Tiffindell Ski & Alpine Resort, a fully equipped hospitality centre with over 150 beds. Open year-round, it has secure facilities and is open for corporate, private and government functions and events.
In the winter months of June, July and August, the resort comes alive to the sport of skiing. Skiing is a great family sport, and can be a character-building activity for young children, youth and parents alike. Tiffindell exudes the atmosphere of the best European ski resorts at a fraction of the cost.
In the warmer months Tiffindell becomes a hub of the best off-the-beaten-track adventures in South Africa. Tiffindell and Ben McDhui Pass become the focal point for the highest, meanest, gravel passes in the country. Activities include 4×4 adventures, big bikes, MTB, and hiking. Take on Ben McDhui and tick off bucket list items for South Africa’s High Five challenge (to adventure on South Africa’s five highest peaks, passes and contour roads) or the Ben 10 Eco Challenge (travel through 10 Eastern Cape high altitude passes).
Location: Tiffindell Farm, Barkly East
Region:Â Friendly N6
Enjoy the hospitality of a homestay
Enjoy the hospitality of home
A great way to explore the Eastern Cape but still be budget friendly is to enjoy the unique hospitality of a homestay. One of the greatest assets of the Eastern Cape is the warmth and friendliness of our people. You can always expect a hearty welcome and a homestay is a wonderful way to connect and get an authentic tourism experience.
To put your mind at ease about the safety and quality of your stay, the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) has created the Basic Quality Verification programme. This ensures that homestay accommodations meet certain minimum standard criteria ensuring that guests can expect to receive a basic level of care. There are over 50 different locations in the Eastern Cape for you to choose from, so book your homestay now!
Location: Eastern Cape
Region: Eastern Cape
Contact Details
Contact:Â Imonti Tours
Tel:Â +27(0)83 487 8975
Email:Â info@imontitours.co.za
Website(s):Â https://www.imontitours.co.za/
Contact: Uncuthu Tours
Tel: +27(0)73 184 9617
Website(s):Â https://www.facebook.com/Uncuthu-Tours-1905473186331151
Useful Links
Contact Details
Loodt Buchner
Tel: +27(0)42 235 1450
Email:Â book@bellevueforest.co.za
Website(s):Â www.bellevueforest.co.za
Useful Links
Giraffe safari
Track the gentle giants of the bush!
Wander with the gentle giants of South Africa in this unique experience at Bellevue Forest Reserve. Filled with breath-taking moments, guests experience an intimate walk through the heart of the Addo Valley bushveld accompanied by an armed and highly experienced guide.
Start with a welcome drink, then track giraffe on foot through marked trails in a walk that lasts about 45-60 minutes. Afterwards, return to the lodge where you will partake in a delicious breakfast at the Eagles Nest Lookout lounge (for morning trips) or sundowners and snacks on the lookout deck (for afternoon trips).
An average level of fitness is sufficient for this experience.
For larger groups, please make prior arrangements so you can be gladly assisted.
Larger groups can be accommodated with prior arrangement. An excellent full day’s outing is to combine this experience with the Buffalo Encounter.
Location: Paterson | Addo Region
Region: Sundays River Valley
Taste the Karoo with a food tour
Discover delightful taste!
Food forms an integral part of any travel experience and the soulful Karoo offers a unique, earthy and wholesome flavour palate to delight and make you feel at home. Travel and taste the Karoo with tailored packages. Weave a culinary experience into your itinerary, whether to taste or learn to make these scrumptious dishes.
Location: Karoo
Region: Karoo Heartland
Contact Details
Contact: Chantelle Marais
Tel: +(0)71 670 4747
Email: grt@gotravel.co.za
Website(s): https://web.facebook.com/ChantelleTheTOURGUIDE/Â
Useful Links
Contact Details
Helipilot – +27(0)41 581 0327
Helicopter Charter – +27(0)41 507 7343
Useful Links
Helicopter flip in Nelson Mandela Bay
Get a bird’s eye view!
Take in the breath-taking views of beautiful Nelson Mandela Bay from above with a helicopter ride! From this view you will be able to fully experience the wonders of the city and the bay from one exhilarating location.
Charter a helicopter to a destination or simply sit back and enjoy an incredible way to sight-see. Helicopter charters available on our Nelson Mandela Bay Guide/App
Location: Nelson Mandela Bay
Region: Sunshine Coast
Rock climbing and abseiling
Scale the rugged terrain of the Eastern Cape!
The Eastern Cape is a rock climber’s paradise with a wide range of crags and crevices to be explored. You will receive a warm Eastern Cape welcome from our friendly climbers when setting out to the remarkable sites on offer. There are more than 900 sport routes, nearly 4 000 traditional climbing lines and a few bouldering areas as well.
Choose from a range of self-climb or tour operated climbs and abseiling experiences throughout the Eastern Cape.
Location: Eastern Cape
Region: Eastern Cape
Contact Details
Contact: Eastern Cape Rock Climbing
Tel: +27(0)83 681 8713
Email: info@easterncaperockclimbing.co.za
Website(s): https://www.easterncaperockclimbing.co.za/
Useful Links
Contact Details
Contact:Â Imonti Tours
Tel:Â +27(0)83 487 8975
Email:Â info@imontitours.co.za
Website(s):Â https://www.imontitours.co.za/
Contact: Uncuthu Tours
Tel: +27(0)73 184 9617
Website(s):Â https://www.facebook.com/Uncuthu-Tours-1905473186331151
Useful Links
Explore vibrant and authentic Xhosa culture
Connect with local culture!
The Eastern Cape is the second biggest province in South Africa and the majority of the people are Xhosa-speaking. Take a glimpse into the vibrant Xhosa culture with a unique and authentic Wild Coast village encounter. Tours are designed for guests who want to connect with rural communities and learn about the local culture.
Experience daily life from living in mud houses and cooking traditional meals to how to make your own beads. Learn about Xhosa customs and spend time getting to know the people of the Eastern Cape.
Opportunities are available in different villages in the Eastern Cape allowing a range of possibilities to get to know these local communities.
Location: Eastern Cape
Region: Wild Coast
Dive the abundant shores
Dive the deeps to view the wonders of our marine life!
The Eastern Cape has 800km of unspoilt coast offering a plethora of marine encounters that cater to all kinds of travellers. Explore the beautiful and colourful reefs of the Eastern Cape. Come face to face with ragged tooth sharks, dolphins and other marine fauna in the temperate waters of the Indian Ocean.
The Eastern Cape is one of the few places in the world where Big 7 game viewing is possible, allowing for a combination of land and ocean safaris to see lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhino, whale and shark in one location. Nelson Mandela is also the world capital for bottlenose dolphin viewing ensuring that you will get to view these majestic creatures when visiting the city.
For a truly singular experience, dive during the exhilarating annual Sardine Run where a marine wildlife spectacular is displayed. The Sardine Run is an annual phenomenon that happens from May to July each year. Billions of sardines gather in the cool waters of Agulhas Bay to spawn, travelling along to coast past the Eastern Cape and towards KwaZulu-Natal. The large shoals attract a range of marine predators making it one of the best times for marine safaris and sightseeing. Diving during this time is a special delight, with a host of packages on offer to safely make the most of the experience.
Location: Nelson Mandela Bay
Region: Sunshine Coast
Contact Details
Contact: Pro Dive
Tel: +27(0)41 5811 144 | +27(0)63 017 5961
Email: dive@prodive.co.za
Website(s): https://prodive.co.za/
Offshore Africa Port St Johns
Tel: 084 951 1325
Email:Â Â info@offshoreportstjohns.com
Useful Links
Camping + Glamour = Glamping
Take it easy, camp in style and comfort!
Glamping is where stunning nature meets modern luxury. It’s a way to experience the untamed and completely unique parts of the world—without having to sacrifice creature comforts.
The Eastern Cape is known for its exhilarating adventures and thrilling escapes as well as the rugged beauty of the coast, desert and savannah. Camping is one of the best ways to experience all of these wonders and get up close to wildlife and natural treasures. That doesn’t mean that your accommodations have to be rustic – a fusion of glamour and camping, glamping is a way to authentically experience the most awe-inspiring locales around the world. Immerse yourself in nature in comfortable luxury with our magnificent glamping sites, from treetop escapes to sumptuous safaris in luxury tents.
Location: Eastern Cape
Region: Eastern Cape
Get the best view in the house with an adrenalin packed skydive
Take a leap and get incredible views!
Pump up your adrenalin with thrilling skydiving in Jeffreys Bay! Adventure meets sightseeing with this amazing experience, giving you the best seat in the house to view the beautiful Jeffreys Bay coast. Professional and well-practiced, you will be safe in the hands of our crew whether you are a first-timer or an experienced jumper.
Explore exhilaration from 11 000 feet: you don’t have to be an adrenalin junkie, just willing to try something new! Put yourself at ease jumping with our professional crew from up to 11 000 feet, above the scenic Jeffreys bay coastline.
Up to 45 seconds freefall at 200kph, followed by a 5-minute parachute ride. As long as the conditions are good you will have a chance to steer the parachute. Your instructor will take over for the landing and you can even land at the beach (if pre-arranged).
A once in a lifetime adventure that is definitely recommended to everyone from all walks of life!
Location: Jeffreys Bay
Region: Sunshine Coast
Contact Details
Contact: Gerrit van Zyl, Skydive Jeffreys Bay
Tel:Â +27(0)72 6622 150
Email:Â info@skydivejeffreysbay.co.za
Website(s): https://skydivejeffreysbay.co.za/
Useful Links
Starry starry night... calling all stargazers
Observe the heavens unobstructed!
Discover the wonders of the night sky in the open planes of the Eastern Cape. Our unspoilt vast open spaces are ideal for crystal clear views of the stars. Add this activity to your itinerary, an opportunity truly to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the constellations. Choose from a variety of regions within the Eastern Cape to explore. Whether you’re in the soulful Karoo heartland, the picturesque Baviaanskloof or the lush beauty of the Tsitsikamma, the Eastern Cape offers you the perfect space to take some time out and marvel at the beauty around and above you!
Look out for tours in the area you are visiting, including guided stargazing and lectures to make this a great learning experience.
Useful links
Slackpacking the Eastern cape coastline
Hike the coastline hassle-free!
Have you always wanted to go hiking but without the hassle of carrying all your gear? Slackpacking is the answer that gives you the opportunity to explore the gorgeous hikes along the Kouga coastline without the fuss of having to carry your camp on your back.
Experience the rugged coastline, golden sand dunes, luscious flora of the coast and spot some unique wildlife, focussing on getting to your destination where your gear will be waiting for you. Stay in guesthouses and other accommodation along the way for a comfortable evening rest.
Try the Chokka Trail, the Wild Coast Meander, the Dolphin Trail and others for a truly accessible hiking holiday.
Region:Â Easten Cape
Contact Details
Contact: Esti Stewart (Chokka Trail)
Tel: +27(0)73 825 0835
Email: chokkatrail@gmail.com
Website(s): http://chokkatrail.co.za/
Contact: The Dolphin Trail
Tel: +27(0)42 2803 588
Email: info@dolphintrail.co.za
Website(s): http://www.dolphintrail.co.za/
Contact: Wild Coast Meander (Wild Coast Bookings)
Tel: +27(0)83 459 2260
Email: josh@wildcoastbookings.co.za
Website(s): http://www.wildcoastbookings.co.za/
