Interesting places to visit in Eastern Cape

Scuba Dive in Port Elizabeth

On a day trip? Explore the beautiful and colourful reefs of the Eastern Cape. Book a dive, scheduled boat dives or a shore dive. For certified Scuba divers, there is also a wide range of diving spots around Port Elizabeth including shy shark, shark alley, Phillip's reef,

and white sands among others.

Storms River Suspension Bridge

The bridge is situated in the Tsitsikamma National Park along the Garden Route. It is 170km about an 1 hour 40-minute drive from Port Elizabeth, and 45 minutes from Plett. The bridge is a series of bridges and is architecturally very beautifully and quite novel to cross. There are several short or longer hikes you can do using the bridges as a starting point, make sure to wear comfy sneakers and bring your swimming costume and a picnic. The hikes are shaded by protected trees and wind through well-constructed pathways with little snatches of sea view. It is quite a surreal mix between rainforest and ocean.

Morgan's Bay Beach

The beautiful mile-long beach is a classic Eastern Cape beach and is often misty and has a few cows wondering along it. It is close to the Kei River and has a peaceful lagoon to swim in. The beach is surrounded by beautiful greenery. Lunch at the Morgan Bay Hotel is not to be missed. You can walk there straight off the beach and the vibe is very relaxed, just be sure to book ahead. If you are a beach love you could also pay a visit to the Jeffrey’s Bay Learn 2 Surf School and learn a new skill.

The Big Pineapple

Standing 16.7 metres tall, this gigantic structure is a tribute to the agricultural success of the prickly fruit. Early farmers struggled to grow any crops here until the first pineapple top was planted in 1865. The interior boasts a tourist shop, static displays, and a great view. It’s a fun place to take the whole family and learn about the pineapple industry or find a little memento.

Yellowwood Forest Tea Garden and Pizzeria

This one-of-a-kind eatery in Morgan’s Bay, allows guests to feel as if they have stepped foot in their own private forest. The nature lover’s retreat is secluded in a canopy of trees and colourful décor. Yellowwood tea garden takes the casual Saturday lunch to a trip into the wilderness. Not only is their food delicious, but they also cater to backpackers, camping facilities and other accommodation options. The Tea Garden can also merely be a meeting point or pit stop during the large array of activities they offer. From biking, family hikes, the nearby Morgan’s beach or even canoeing.

Madonna and Child Waterfalls

These beautiful falls are located in the blissful and serene village of Hogsback. The waterfall's name originates from the outcrop of rock on the face of the falls which forms the shape of a "Mother and Child". You can reach the Madonna and Child waterfall by hiking down for a moderately steep 150 m, with the assistance of stairs and handrails at particular spots. There is a longer route via the Main Road past what is known as the 'Big Tree', which is an 800-year-old yellow wood. Both routes will take you through the indigenous Tyumie forest.

Outeniqua Hiking Trail

Situated along the Garden Route, the scenic Outeniqua hiking trail is one frequented by travelers from all around the world. It takes 7 days to complete and is 108km in total. The shortest day is 12km and the longest is 17km. The route ranges from easy to difficult and a great way to exercise and improve fitness. There are huts to stay in along the way which can be used as resting stations along the way.

Tsitsikamma canopy tour

The canopy tour takes place in the gorgeous Tsitsikamma indigenous rainforest. You are attached to a harness and go along a series of zip lines between platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees. The zip line is silent, so you get to witness birdlife and hear the forest. Some of the zip lines accelerate up to quite a speed if you choose, getting your adrenaline pumping. It is situated 45 minutes from Plettenberg Bay and 1h and 30 mins from Port Elizabeth.

Jeffreys Bay

This area is known as a surfing capital and ideal for adventure tourists. Spend the day in Jeffreys, and you will be sure to see plenty of surfers – young, old, beginners and professionals in the water on watching an event. Jeffreys bay beach has also been frequented by World class surfers

Bloukrans Bungy Jump

The world’s highest bungee jump, 216m. Situated along the Garden Route on the border between the Eastern and Western Cape. This is a definite must go to for adrenalin and adventure tourist.

The Valley of Desolation, Graaff-Reinet

Situated in the Camdeboo National Park in the Eastern Cape, this national monument is often called ‘The Cathedral of the Mountains’. This breathtaking landscape of piled dolomite columns set within the sweeping plains of the open Karoo is the result of volcanic activity and erosive forces of over a period of 100 million years. The joined columns reach heights of between 90 and 120m.

The Eerstefontein Day Trail

This is also in the western section and has three trail options: 5km, 11km and 14km long. The park office has a map. You will need your own vehicle to get around the reserve. Accommodation is in pre-erected two-person safari tents or you can bring your own tent and camp near Nqweba Dam

Mdumbi River Kayak

The Mdumbe river is a spectacular meandering river that opens up to the ocean about a 60 min drive from coffee bay. One of the most spectacular bloom swarms of jellyfish can be seen here during the summer months on the Wild Coast. Mdumbi river is also home to Mangroves, Purple Crabs, Pied Kingfishers, Fish Eagles, Leguaans and Wooden Owls which you will see during your kayak.

Egg Rock Cradock

This 10 mm high egg-shaped dolerite rock is one of Cradock's many fascinating attractions. The rock weighs approximately 488 tons and is delicately balanced on an edge, with its southern side missing due to a lightning strike around 1937. Visitors can stroll and climb around the surrounding area, where a typical Karoo atmosphere prevails. The silence of the magnificent area will make you feel like you are far away from civilisation.

Starways Pottery Art Gallery Opera and Theatre

Starways Pottery Art Gallery, Opera & Theatre is set among the lush forests of Hogsback. This Community Arts Centre has exhibitions featuring water colours, oil paintings and flame fired pottery. Music events at Starways African-style Rose Theatre include opera, barber shop, acoustic music and electronica. They host poetry readings, deejay and vinyl evenings and community social events. The Rose Theatre is also home to the ECCA poets. They make a range of environmentally friendly products.