The Eastern Cape province is the traditional home of the Xhosa and the birthplace of many prominent South Africans, including Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki and Steve Biko.

The landscape and climate of the Eastern Cape is diverse. The western interior being arid Karoo, while the east is well-watered and green. Attractions include the Addo Elephant National Park and Tsitsikamma National Park where the “Big Five” and other wildlife can be viewed in their natural environment.

Historical Grahamstown is host to the National Arts Festival, one of Africa’s largest cultural events, while Jeffreys Bay is arguably the most famous surfing spot in the country and home to spectacular sub-tropical rainforests.

One of the supreme attractions offered by the Eastern Cape province is the exquisite Wild Coast. The unspoiled natural beauty of this province’s coastline is home to ancient forests of cycads and yellowwood trees, the perfect place for bird watching, angling (provided you have a license) or exploring this paradise on foot, on horseback or on the numerous 4x4 trails.

Unique cultural experiences can be found at various towns in the Eastern Cape interior, including truly traditional food, historical monuments and events such as the National Arts Festival of Grahamstown.