Eastern Cape spots worth visiting

Posted on 11 February 2025

The Eastern Cape province is known and loved for its rich history and splendid landscapes. It effortlessly attracts different kinds of travellers through its interesting offerings.

Undoubtedly, it is home to a number of towns and attractions worth exploring.

Here’s a look at some of the best spots to visit in the Eastern Cape:

The Big Pineapple

Picture: Wikimedia Commons. Credit – NJR ZA

Located in Bathurst, The Big Pineapple is an attraction that stands 16,5m high and is the biggest man-made pineapple in the world.

It consists of three floors, with the top offering stunning views of parts of Bathurst all the way to the coast.

Inside the well-known landmark is a shop selling all sorts of pineapple-related products and gifts.

A visit to The Big Pineapple also offers the chance to learn more about Bathurst and its pineapple industry.

Graaff-Reinet

Being the oldest town in the province, Graaff-Reinet is a destination of much interest.

For the eager explorer, it is a treasure trove with lots to uncover and enjoy.

Graaff-Reinet

Source: Facebook / @Graaff-Reinet Magazine

From museum visits to delicious food at the local eateries, there truly is something for everyone.

Worthy of exploration is the Camdeboo National Park where you can enjoy a self-guided game drive.

Picture: Facebook/Graaff-Reinet Tourism

Additionally, head to the scenic Valley of Desolation where you can marvel at the sight of different species of birdlife, as well as an array of flora and fauna.

Addo Elephant National Park

Picture: Addo Elephant Park

Located outside Gqeberha, the famous Addo Elephant National Park is renowned for its natural beauty and its large elephant herds. 

It is the ideal destination to immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the African elephant.

SANParks offer senior citizen discounts of up to 40%

An ellie roadblock in Addo Elephant National Park.

Visiting the attraction offers the chance to delight in the beauty of the flora and fauna as you walk through the diverse valleys, plains and forests of the bushveld. You can also enjoy the scenic picnic area which overlooks a waterhole. 

ALSO READ: Kayaking & canoeing spots in Durban

Oyster Bay

Oyster Bay, Eastern Cape

Picture: Facebook / Oyster Bay Lodge

Oyster Bay is nestled 22.5 kilometers west of St Francis Bay on the Eastern Cape Coast of South Africa. It is a tranquil coastal retreat within the Kouga Local Municipality of the Sarah Baartman District.

The idyllic destination is known for its expansive sand dunes, pristine beaches and river deltas.

It is worth visiting as you can explore numerous hiking trails, indulge in horse riding or even enjoy some mountain biking amidst a backdrop of diverse landscapes.

Oyster Bay is celebrated for its extensive coastal and marine biodiversity, maintaining a strong commitment to preserving its natural environment. Thus, you can enjoy a serene getaway rich in natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Albany Museum

Picture: Sourced

Established in 1855, the Albany Musuem is Makhanda is one of the oldest museums in South Africa. It consists of a family of seven buildings, including the Natural Sciences Museum, the History Museum and the Observatory Museum.

Offering an array of exhibits that cover a vast number of topics, the museum is worth the visit. There are also educational tours and programmes to make your visit as educational as it is interesting.

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