Written by Nina van Zyl

South Africa’s Eastern Cape is a phenomenal safari destination that will leave you with more than a few unforgettable memories to last a lifetime. Need more convincing? Here are our reasons why an Eastern Cape safari is so special.

So many animals to see

The Eastern Cape is an area that has seen the successful reintroduction of many species of animals, from cheetahs to lions to elephants. Addo Elephant National Park, the third largest reserve in South Africa, stretches all the way from the Eastern Cape’s coast inland and has the largest population of elephants in Africa. Pumba, a private reserve, is known for its rare white lions, while the award-winning Shamwari Game Reserve has two big cat sanctuaries. A visit to any one of the reserves in the area means you are bound to see all the members of the Big 5 in the easy-to-see habitat. But don’t stop there. Keep an eye out for predators like hyenas or African wild dogs. Along the river, spot the African clawless otter and hippos lounging in the water. For birders, the Eastern Cape is an absolute paradise with many special species to tick off. Then there is the coastal area, where visitors can spot whales during the breeding season or even great white sharks.

A great safari destination

The Eastern Cape is a secluded safari destination, littered throughout the province with both national parks as well as exclusive private reserves. They range from small, intimate reserves to massive parks, each with a unique variety of animals to observe. And with so many to choose from, at least one of them is sure to tick all your boxes. Even better, most of the parks are only a short drive from major centres in the province like Port Elizabeth or Grahamstown, making them a great destination for quick weekend getaways. The Eastern Cape has a varied landscape to explore, from open grasslands to ancient forests, a lush coastline to the Great Karoo’s semi-desert, one is never bored.

Fun for the whole family

The Eastern Cape is a malaria-free zone, which means that you don’t have to worry about taking special precautions while on holiday in the area, for yourself or your little ones. More than that, though, there are a ton of fun activities to keep the family busy. Think expert-led game drives and bush walks, boat cruises, and horseback rides. Some lodges even offer supervised treasure hunts to keep the kids entertained, as well as other educational experiences to broaden their horizons. The temperate climate means days are comfortable and sunny – perfect for family adventures outside.

The variety of stays in stunning landscapes

From basic stays to exclusive over-the-top experiences, there are a wide range of accommodation options that will suit any range of requirements. From family-friendly tented camps to romantic boutique hotels, traditional thatched lodges to stylish spas with private plunge pools, there’s something for everyone. 

Ready to explore the Eastern Cape? Plan your sustainable safari to this special destination, simply click here to begin.