BUCKET LIST 2024

Celebrate all things summer with a thrilling collection of activities, events, and experiences across the nine tourism regions of the Eastern Cape. Our summer bucket list promises something for everyone, from families with teens and tweens to solo travellers, with travel deals, festive season safety tips, holiday shopping and more!

1. TSITSIKAMMA CANOPY TOUR

(TSITSIKAMMA REGION)

Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour offers visitors a responsible eco-adventure forest tour that is fun, interactive, and adventurous. A first of its kind in Africa – a zipline experience within the tree tops where you will be moving from platform to platform 30 meters above the forest floor! Visitors can enjoy birdlife and spectacular views while their qualified guide explains the ecology of the environment.

www.stormsriver.com

2. SIGIDI VILLAGE WILD COAST HOMESTAY

(WILD COAST)

Enjoy an authentic homestay experience on the magnificent Wild Coast. Escape to a life of open space and pristine beaches. Zanele’s Homestay Hut Sleeps 6 people on mattresses in one shared bedroom. Rates include breakfast, lunch and dinner. The huts are spotlessly clean and spacious. The accommodation is about 2km from the beach, you have two Land Cruisers at your disposal – to shuttle you to the beach or to explore the sled tracks into the heart of the Wild Coast

www.afristay.com/p/59663

3. HONEY TASTING

(KOUGA)

Enjoy a seasonal honey tasting Reserve situated in the beautiful Gamtoos Valley situated between the mountains the sea in the vicinity of Hankey and Humansdorp.

www.pabala.co.za

4. JEFFREYS BAY HORSE-RIDING

(KOUGA)

Enjoy an adventurous horse riding experience where experienced guides escort riders twice daily along a 13km circular route in the vicinity of Jeffreys Bay. The trail takes about 2 hours to complete, leading through beautiful fynbos, coastal vegetation and returning along a 6 km stretch of deserted beach.
There are also several experiences and services for your convenience and entertainment including horse trails, riding lessons, special needs and disabled riding lessons, parties, events and opportunities to volunteer and work with horses.

www.jeffreysbayhorsetrails.co.za

5. WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING

(CAPE ST FRANCIS)

Join us on a cruise up the coast taking in the beauty of the scenic reserve, sand dunes and beaches along the way. From June to Nov and sometimes extending to Dec we experience a high success rate providing close encounters with Southern Right and Humpback Whales who visit our waters on their annual migration south. You are likely to also see penguins, seals and a variety of other bird and marine life. Trips are 1.5 to 2 hours in length and can be enjoyed by anyone keen on an outstanding marine experience.

www.stfrancissafaris.co.za/whale-dolphin-watching

6. KAYAK AND LILO ADVENTURE

(TSITSIKAMMA)

This unique award-winning adventure is in the beautiful Storms River Mouth, Tsitsikamma. Start by kayaking over the pristine ocean and then go over to kayak deep into the breath-taking storms river gorge filled with marine life and ancient forests.

Explore deeper in the gorge with our unique relaxing Lilo’s. Ideal for the whole family with no experience required.

www.untouchedadventures.com

7. WILD FLY FISHING IN THE KAROO

(KAROO HEARTLAND)

Blistering horizons of blue mountains, semi-desert and timeless sunsets, don’t exactly conjure up images of water and quality fly fishing. Cast yourself into a Karoo time warp, fly fish in pools that dinosaur-like reptiles scoured out in river-beds hundreds of years ago or stand below a 90m waterfall in a national heritage site under the shade of yellowwood trees, fly fishing for trout as the mist of the waterfall soothes your soul. With an expert fishing guide your experience will surpass expectations.

www.wildflyfishinginthekaroo.co.za

8. WHALE / DOLPHIN / PENGUIN ISLAND CRUISE

(3.5 TO 4 HOUR CRUISE, 08:00AM TO 12:00PM, NMBM)

Visit St Croix Island and Brenton Islands. St. Croix Island is home to about 10,000 African Penguins (we have lost 80% in 10 years). Guests will get a close-up encounter with these comical birds. During this cruise guests also have the possibility of spotting bottlenose dolphins (Algoa Bay is known as the bottlenose capital of the world), common dolphins, humpback dolphins, Bryde’s Whales, Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Southern Right Whales, Cape Fur Seals, various species of sharks and pelagic birds including terns, petrels, skuas, shearwaters and albatrosses

www.raggycharters.co.za/listing/whale-dolphin-penguin-island-cruise

9. BATHUEST AGRICULTURAL MUSIUM

(SUNSHINE COAST)

How would you like to spend some time with local brewers as they play around with flavours and techniques, creating new and exciting craft beers?Featherstone Brewery and Entrepid Brewing, situated just outside Makhanda on a game reserve, offers beer tasting and tours of its craft beer-making process. Find out what makes this local craft beer brewery a work of craftsmanship by booking your beer tasting and tour experience today! Included in the cost you get four beer tasters and a tour of the brewing process. Bookings are available for a minimum of 2 people. Contact William Yell 082 990 0318

www.featherstonebrewery.co.za/shop

10. AMATOLA HIKING TRAIL

(AMATHOLE REGION)

The Amatola Trail is widely regarded as the toughest and best hiking trail in South Africa. It is a 6-day and 5-night hike starting at Maden Dam near King William’s Town (Qonce), traversing the incredible Amatola Mountains and ending in the iconic village of Hogsback.
The Amatola Trail is truly amazing and very strenuous so one needs to be prepared, however the views, remoteness, pristine indigenous forest and endless waterfalls make it a true bucket-lister.
You must be fit and capable of hiking 20km+/10 hours a day, never knowing what Mother Nature might throw at you!

amatolatrails.co.za/wp

11. EXPLORE THE WILD SIDE OF MDANTSANE

(BCMM)

Explore the Wildside of Mdantsane with Uncuthu Tours. This unique Mdantsane township experience showcases the historical significance of South Africa’s second largest township and introduces you to discovering the surrounding natural environment. The tour includes a kayaking and mountain biking experience.

www.facebook.com/pages/category/Tour-Agency/Uncuthu-Tours-1905473186331151

12. MORGAN BAY CLIFFS

(KOUGA)

The rugged Morgan Bay cliffs are popular with hikers and offer excellent photographic opportunities. They’re also an excellent location for watching the sunrise, or enjoy a sundowner with friends and family. There are three signposted trails which start and finish at the Morgan Bay Hotel.

WWW.MORGANBAY.CO.ZA

13. HOGSBACK ADVENTURES

(AMATOLA MOUNTAIN ESCAPE)

Visit the village of Hogsback and enjoy a range of adventure activities with Hogsback Adventures. They offer archery, abseiling, mountain biking and more. A must do is the 5km mountain biking ride to the Madonna and Childs Waterfall followed by a 35 m abseiling experience next to the waterfall into the indigenous forest below and then a hike back into town.

www.hogsbackadventures.co.za

14. GOAT WALKING IN RHODES

(EASTERN CAPE HIGHLANDS)

Nestled in the Eastern Cape Highlands, bordering Lesotho, this Victorian-era village was declared a conservation area in 1997. It is surrounded by pristine rivers and a magnificent mountain range. The tranquil village ambience makes for an ideal getaway for city dwellers seeking a break from the stresses of big city life. For those nature lovers seeking something a little different, why not consider hiking in the fresh mountain air accompanied by beautiful goats. For more information, please contact the local Rhodes Information Centre info@rhodesinfo.co.za or 045 971 9003

rhodesinfo.co.za

15. OWL HOUSE MUSEUM

(KAROO HEARTLAND)

Weird to some, wonderful to others, the Owl House is a work of outsider art created by Helen Martins between 1945 and 1976. Driven to despair by the dullness of her daily life, she took steps to transform her world with light, colour and texture. The Owl House is a must for art lovers.

theowlhouse.co.za

16. ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

(SUNDAYS RIVER VALLEY)

The only Park in the world to be home & habitat to the BIG 7: view the largest density of African Elephants on the planet, Cape buffalo, leopard, black rhino, lions & great white shark and seasonal southern right whale in the marine section.

www.sanparks.org/parks/addo

17. MARYLINS 60’S DINER

(TSITSIKAMMA)

Marilyn’s 60’s Diner situated in Storms River Village, in the heart of Tsitsikamma, is a great landmark for a trip down memory lane. This is an experience of note, with its Cadillac’s and Chevy’s, neon rimmed signage, 50 and 60’s decor, and Elvis and Marilyn memorabilia. The Diner itself forgoes no detail from the checked floors to the red & white colour scheme, Juke Box and sugar shakers. Like the classic diner of the movies this restaurant serves everything from breakfast, cakes and milkshake numbers to All American Cocktails, burgers, steak and diner style deserts.

www.marilyns60sdiner.co.za

18. DEEP SEA FISHING CHARTERS

(KOUGA)

Spend quality time with your family and friends while connecting with nature and enjoying a day out on the ocean. Pabala Private Nature Reserve offers the following fishing excursions: Deep Sea Fishing charters, Surf Fishing, Fresh water fishing in private dams and Fishing charters on the Gamtoos River.

pabalaprivatenaturereserve.co.za

19. SKY DIVE

(KAROO HEARTLAND)

Get your thrill on and enjoy a 20-minute plane ride over the coast followed by a 30 second freefall at 200KPH, 9000 FT or 11000FT. This is an experience of a lifetime and is managed by a professional team.

www.skydivejeffreysbay.co.za

20. EXPERIENCE PORT ST JOHNS

(WILD COAST)

Port St. Johns is situated on the Wild Coast, a coastline of about 270 km long, boasting some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country. It lies at the mouth of the Mzimvubu River, a river flowing through an impressive gorge known as the “Gates of St John” into an estuary located on the Indian Ocean. On both sides of the river ravine are high sandstone mountain peaks: Mount Thesiger (342 meter above sea level) and Mount Sullivan (304 meter), named after two British Military officers. Some of the tours to do include the Bulolo Waterfall Hike, Isinuka Mud Caves, Blowhole & The Gap Hike, Poenskop beach drive, Silaka Nature Reserve and much more.

www.amapondo.co.za

21. LEOPARD TRAIL

(KOUGA / BAVIAANS)

The Leopard Trail is a 4-day and 3-night hike set in the magnificent Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site Wilderness Reserve. This is a slackpacking hike – each day we transport your bags and food from one overnight hut to the next, leaving you to walk with only a day pack. The Leopard Trail is a moderately difficult hike with the longest day being 22km. The route is designed for people of good hiking fitness.

gobaviaans.co.za/project/leopard-trail-general-information/

22. DRIFTERS RACEWAY THEME PARK

(BCMM)

Drifting Raceway Theme Park is an outdoor adventure and amusement park. The Theme Park seeks to mix Culture and Adventure in urban environment which will keep the entire family entertained.

www.facebook.com/DriftingRacewayThemePark

23. BLOUKRANS BUNGEE

(TSITSIKAMMA)

Brace yourself for an epic 216-meter plunge from the legendary Bloukrans Bungy – a daring feat that has captivated thrill-seekers worldwide.

bloukransbungy.com/

24. SAFARI

(EASTERN CAPE)

The Eastern Cape offers an incredible, diverse and very personable safari experience which can be enjoyed at any of the private game reserves or within the destinations four national parks. The unique offering of a Big 7 experience is one of the destinations differentiating factors. Travellers seeking a either a luxury or family friendly Wildlife Safari will not be disappointed with the offerings in the Eastern Cape.

visiteasterncape.co.za/private/

25. SOAK UP THE SUN AT BLUE FLAG BEACH

(EASTERN CAPE)

The Eastern Cape beaches are popular year round but even more so over the Festive Season. To ensure you enjoy a quality and safe beach experience choose a beach that has Blue Flag Status.

www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/blue-flag-beaches-2023

26. CAPE REFICE NATURE RESERVE

(NMBM)

The 366 hectare Cape Recife Nature Reserve was proclaimed in 1973, and is situated next to the Pine Lodge Holiday Resort off Marine Drive, Summerstrand. The reserve offers some of the best beaches and views within Port Elizabeth, the Roseate Tern Hiking trail and is home to SANCCOB Port Elizabeth where one can view the rehabilitation of marine animals in particular the African Penguin.

www.nmbt.co.za/listing/cape_recife_nature_reserve.html

27. SURFING JBAY

(KOUGA)

Jeffreys Bay is home to the perfect wave and endless summers and is less than an hours drive from Gqeberha. It is a surfer’s haven on the Sunshine Coast in the Eastern Cape. Jeffreys Bay is more than just a surf town, it is welcoming and friendly to everyone looking to have a great time.

www.infojeffreysbay.com/about_jeffreys_bay.htm

28. BAT CAVE TRAIL

(EASTERN CAPE)

The Bat’s Cave Trail in the Nahoon Point Nature Reserve, East London, starts at the MBSA Coastal Education and Visitors Centre. It is a very pretty walk with good views and much of it is along a recycled plastic boardwalk. The boardwalk is raised above the dunes to allow visitor access without creating damage. The boardwalk weaves through the nature reserve, taking you down to the beach below. The trail winds along the beach and sandstone formations through a number of coves and steep sandstone cliffs. Bat’s Cave itself is only accessible at low tide and is about 1,1 km’s from the Education Centre.

www.thesaunter.co.za/listing/the-bats-caves

29. THE VENOM PIT SNAKE PIT

(BCMM)

The Venom Pit is one of Africa’s largest snake parks situated 10km’s from East London. Home to Africa’s most deadly snakes as well as the world’s rarest. Our facility boasts a clean, fresh approach to the husbandry and care of our animals. Our friendly & efficient staff are there to educate and entertain our visitors about these amazing, fear inciting animals through interactive snake demonstrations.

www.facebook.com/TheVenomPit

30. THE MUSIC KITCHEN

(NMBM)

The Music Kitchen is a versatile live music event venue, which regularly hosts top national acts and many local favourites.

Explore our interactive map

Destinations

BUCKET LIST 2024

1. TSITSIKAMMA CANOPY TOUR

(TSITSIKAMMA REGION)

2. SIGIDI VILLAGE WILD COAST HOMESTAY

(WILD COAST)

3. HONEY TASTING

(KOUGA)

4. JEFFREYS BAY HORSE-RIDING

(KOUGA)

5. WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING

(CAPE ST FRANCIS)

6. KAYAK AND LILO ADVENTURE

(TSITSIKAMMA)

7. WILD FLY FISHING IN THE KAROO

(KAROO HEARTLAND)

8. WHALE / DOLPHIN / PENGUIN ISLAND CRUISE

(3.5 TO 4 HOUR CRUISE, 08:00AM TO 12:00PM, NMBM)

9. BATHUEST AGRICULTURAL MUSIUM

(SUNSHINE COAST)

10. AMATOLA HIKING TRAIL

(AMATHOLE REGION)

11. EXPLORE THE WILD SIDE OF MDANTSANE

(BCMM)

12. MORGAN BAY CLIFFS

(KOUGA)

13. HOGSBACK ADVENTURES

(AMATOLA MOUNTAIN ESCAPE)

14. GOAT WALKING IN RHODES

(EASTERN CAPE HIGHLANDS)

15. OWL HOUSE MUSEUM

(KAROO HEARTLAND)

16. ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

(SUNDAYS RIVER VALLEY)

17. MARYLINS 60’S DINER

(TSITSIKAMMA)

18. DEEP SEA FISHING CHARTERS

(KOUGA)

19. SKY DIVE

(KAROO HEARTLAND)