Eastern cape

EASTERN CAPE

Thetsitsikamma Forest runs into the Eastern Cape, a province steeped in history as well as blessed with beautiful beaches and rugged mountain scenery. This is the birthplace of President Nelson Mandela and is the melting pot of three cultures, Xhosa, British and Afrikaner. It is here that battles took place between the early English settlers and the Xhosa.

The country's longest and most magnificent coastline runs from the rugged Tsistikamma Forest area through the famed surfing spots of Jeffreys Bay to the golden beaches of the Sunshine Coast and the Wild Coast.

The coast is dotted with relaxing holiday resorts. Many resorts comprise only a cluster of houses and shops but boast sports facilities such as bowling greens and tennis courts. There are also some excellent spots for fishermen.

Inland are the wooded Amatola Mountains, a paradise for hikers, climbers and trout fishermen, as well as the brooding Karoo Desert. Visitors to the East Cape can experience scenic beauty and the life of villages unwind in a rural retreat or explore the bustling city life. This region includes the major seaport of Port Elizabeth, known as "The Friendly City".

There are also two national parks containing unique sub-species, the Mountain Zebra National Park and the Addo Elephant National Park, the last refuge of the Cape Elephant, and several private reserves.