The Eastern Cape was formed in 1994 out of the 'independent' homelands of Ciskei and Transkei, as well as the eastern portion of the Cape Province. Bhisho is the capital city of the Eastern Cape, with other major cities being Port Elizabeth and East London.
Capital: Bhisho
Provincial population: 6.3 million
Area: 169 580 km²
Percentage of GDP produced in Eastern Cape: 13.3 %
Principal economic sectors: Motor vehicles
The Eastern Cape is the traditional home of the Xhosa people, and the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki and Steve Bhiko. Whether you are looking for an atmospheric holiday getaway by the sea, a safari in Big Five country, or a world class experience in the city, the Eastern Cape will be able to offer you just that, and more.
The Eastern Cape is a diverse province, from the lush forests of Tsitsikamma and the rugged slopes of the Drakensberg, to the scenic beauty of the Garden Route and the pristine beaches of the coast.
The Eastern Cape is home to sweeping sand, rocky cliffs, lush valleys, craggy mountains, not to mention a unspoiled coastline and a paradise for water sport enthusiasts. Here, surfers get to ride the perfect wave, anglers get to reel in a trophy fish, and sailors take advantage of the challenging wind.
The Eastern Cape is a tourist haven, with many world renowned attractions taking pride of place. The Addo Elephant Park is situated 73 kilometres from Port Elizabeth, and offers a safe, peaceful sanctuary for over 200 Elephant, the last Cape Buffalo, and 21 endangered Black Rhino.
Tiffindell is South Africa's one and only ski resort and is situated near the hamlet of Rhodes in the southern Drakensberg, on the slopes of the highest mountain peak in the Eastern Cape, situated at 3001 metres.
Grahamstown, a charming town in the Eastern Cape is home to the National Arts Festival, Africa's largest and most vibrant cultural event. Offering a host of local and international talent, this little town almost doubles in population for the 11 days of the festival. 50 000 people flock to Grahamstown each year to view the range of arts, crafts and entertainment on display.
The Tsitsikamma National Park is an 80 kilometre coastal haven, situated between Nature's Valley and Storms River. The park offers a lush, undisturbed and unspoilt natural sanctuary, with glorious views and untouched landscapes. The Bloukrans Bridge, the highest bungee jump in the world, is situated close to the Park.
Finally, Jeffery's Bay, a surfer's paradise and home to some of the country's wildest coastline. This area is famous for its surfing and supertubes, and it's relaxed and holiday atmosphere. Jeffrey's Bay is also a sought after area, inhabited by Eastern Cape's wealthiest set.
The Eastern Cape Coastal Route covers the length of the Eastern Cape Province stretching across a number of districts. The route starts at T...