Of the seven distinct ecological zones found in South Africa the Eastern Cape has them all. Owning a rare natural beauty prepare to discover pristine beaches, dense forest, and wildlife aplenty with a wild array of National Parks, Game Reserves and lively seaside cities.
Holidays to the Eastern Cape offer a stunning coastline to explore, which stretches an impressive 820km, along which are dotted the region's major urban centres. Chief among them is Port Elizabeth, a buzzing city with a family friendly reputation and fantastic safe swimming beaches. Further along the coast indulge in water sports at Port Alfred and check out the world's last remaining dodo egg at East London.
Travel only an hour and a half outside of Port Elizabeth and you'll stumble upon the Addo Elephant National Park, a phenomenal wilderness area offering some close-up elephant sightings, with over 600 of the gentle giants calling the park home. They are joined by the other members of the Big 5 (lion, rhino, leopard, and buffalo) along with a host of other species.
For the private game reserve experience however, Shamwari (which is to the east of Addo) and Kwandwe offer luxury lodges, remarkable guiding and an exclusive wilderness experience. Shamwari's reputation for excellence is well founded with a strong focus on conservation - the famous Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary being a focal point. Adjacent to Shamwari lies Amakhala Game Reserve, a family friendly wilderness area with the Bushman's River to explore.
Kwandwe, as you may discover, is the Eastern Cape's premier reserve for game viewing. As with Shamwari, service is excellent and your accommodation is superb, mingling the charm of the wild with every conceivable modern amenity. Meander down the Great Fish River, embark on guided walks and even take on rhino tracking.
Safari in style to discover the Bushman's River and fabled Big 5 while kids can enjoy a range of specially tailored activities.
One of the Eastern Cape's premier safari destinations, track rhino, stay in luxury and see the legendary Big 5.
A spectacular Big 5 reserve rooted in conservation, stay in luxury and visit the world famous Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary.
Our favourite itineraries, showcasing the best of Eastern Cape
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Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge is set in the private and malaria free Kwandwe Game Reserve. From the lodge see all of Africa's most famous inhabitants while staying in exclusive accommodation.
Discover the secrets of malaria free Amakhala Game Reserve from Amakhala Bush Lodge. Stay in luxurious yet authentic thatched and tented suites and enjoy incredible Big 5 game viewing.
Small and intimate, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge offers the chance to explore Kwandwe Private Game Reserve's 22,000 hectares, with the chance to see the Big 5.
Stay in tented luxury at Bayethe Lodge in the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Experience superb game viewing and dramatic scenery in this award winning reserve.
Small and intimate, Villa Lobengula is part of the Big 5 Shamwari Private Game Reserve and affords guests breath-taking game viewing, comfortable accommodation and a tranquil setting.
Set in Amakhala Game Reserve's 18,000 acres of malaria free wilderness, Amakhala Woodbury Lodge lies above the Bushman's River Valley and boasts spectacular views. Enjoy river cruises and Big 5 game viewing.
A great property for families, from Shamwari Riverdene Lodge visit the Born Free and Animal Rehabilitation Centres, take in phenomenal Big 5 game viewing and stay in luxurious accommodation.
Situated in the malaria free Eastern Cape, Amakhala Safari Lodge offers phenomenal Big 5 game viewing and luxury accommodation with spacious interiors and private plunge pools.
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