The 10 best activities in the Eastern Cape of South Africa – trails, adventures & highlights with GPS data

The town of Gqeberha – formerly Port Elizabeth – is a popular stopover on the way to Addo Elephant National Park or the Garden Route. But the region in South Africa's Eastern Cape has much more to offer – here are my 10 top tips for great activities on foot, on the water, and on horseback.

The 10 best activities in South Africa's Eastern Cape at a glance

1. Roseate Trail – Cape Recife Nature Reserve

Hike to the iconic lighthouse on storm-lashed Cape Recife. Hike through dunes, along the coast to the lighthouse , waves crashing onto the beach and countless birds circling overhead.

Why it's special: Perfect for sunrises and peaceful moments in nature.

In front of the lighthouse, there's a yellow frame marking the spot for photos. It's a great place to take souvenir photos.

→ More information coming soon

2. Kayak & air mattress tour through the Storms River Gorge (Tsitsikamma National Park)

Paddle through the deep gorge of the Storms River , past still pools, deep caves and ancient native forests .

Take a walk to the Suspension Bridge before or after your kayak tour. From there you have a great view into the Storms River Gorge.

Why it's special: Adrenaline & nature.

→ More information coming soon

3. Otter Trail: South Africa's most spectacular coastal hike

South Africa's most spectacular hike, the Otter Trail, winds along the pristine coast of Tsitsikamma National Park on the Garden Route. It takes five days to complete the 42 kilometers and almost 3,000 meters of elevation gain.

Why it's special: spectacular coastline, remote accommodations.

Accommodation is in unstaffed wooden cabins in beautiful locations.

→ More information and GPS data for the tour can be found here →

4. Sardinia Bay-Sacramento Trail

Hike on the Historic coastal path along the endless coastline, past sand dunes, beaches and breathtaking viewpoints.

Why especially : Perfect for outdoor photography and sunsets.

→ More information coming soon

5. Beach horseback riding in Jeffreys Bay

Horse riding along the famous beaches of J-Bay – a true experience of freedom.

Why it's special: A unique combination of surf town feeling and racing gallop.

→ More information coming soon

6. 3 Rivers Mountain Bike Trails

More than 200 km of marked trails, 70 km of single trails , and the "Purple Cow" is just one of them.

Why it's special : Ideal for beginners and advanced users – lots of variety.

Here → MTB Trail Guide on aoutdooractive

7. Addo Elephant Park – Alexandria Trail

A 32-km two-day hiking trail through forests, dunes and coastal landscapes in Addo NP.

Why is it special: Into the Wild: this hike with an overnight stay in a cabin is a real adventure.

Coming soon → Alexandria Trail in detail (link)

8. Addo Elephant Park – Tree Dassie Trail

This hiking trail at Woody Cape leads through the beautiful Alexandria Forest in the coastal area of Addo Elephant National Park.

Why special: On the trail of the tree dassie

More soon → Alexandria Trail in detail

9. Maitlands Nature Reserve – De Stades Trail

Challenging but rewarding trail through forests with views of dunes and the sea .

Why it's special: Little visited – a true hidden gem.

→ I uploaded mor Info and the GPS data of the De Stades Trail on outdooractive

10. Island Nature Reserve – Trail 2+ 4

A longer, more varied route with dense forests, diverse birdlife, open sections and moderate elevation gains.

Why it's special: A dream for ornithologists

More Info: → Island NR Trail on outdooractive

Practical tips for your Eastern Cape adventure

Here you can find more blog posts about South Africa

ARRIVAL

Flights with a layover in Johannesburg are available from 560 euros, for example with Condor (www.condor.com ) and Lufthansa ( www.lufthansa.com ).

TRAVEL TIME

Temperatures range from an average of 19 degrees Celsius during the South African winter from May to September to 25 degrees Celsius from December to February. However, it's worth noting that Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) isn't called "The Windy City" for nothing.

ACCOMMODATION

There are eight different camps and lodges in Addo Elephant National Park, which are part of SANParks. They are bookable.

Near Addo Main Camp lies the Bellevue Forest Reserve . The Elephant Lodge No. 5, with its own terrace, is particularly beautiful.

An unusual overnight stay is possible in a lighthouse on the storm-lashed sandy beach of Cape Recife. Possible. The tower was converted into accommodation with two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom.

The Art Deco-style No. 5 Boutique Art Hotel is located in Gqeberha in the chic suburb of Summerstrand, near the beach promenade and less than 10 minutes from the airport.

GASTRONOMY

Fine dining and cocktails right on the waterfront can be found at the Ginger Restaurant in Gqeberha. Barney's Tavern at Shark Rock Pier, directly above the sea, offers typical pub food in a fitting atmosphere.

Conclusion

I spent six weeks exploring the region around Port Elizabeth and wasn't bored for a single day. Over the next few weeks, I'll be posting detailed descriptions of the activities and their corresponding GPS coordinates. Also, you don't necessarily have to go to Kruger National Park to see wildlife. I'll be sharing those safari tips with you as well. Stay tuned.