Eastern Cape Map
The Eastern Cape has over 60 State Game Reserves and over 20 private reserves and game farms, making it one of the most sought after region for wildlife enthusiasts. Enjoy misty mornings in the Tsitsikamma Forests in the west, bask in the sunshine warmth of pristine beaches spanning 800km to the northern most tip of the Wild Coast, the harsh beauty of the arid Karoo or experience the only snow skiing in the mountainous region of the Southern Drakensberg. Hike our coastal or mountain trails or take the highest (216m) bungi plunge in the world. Surf the awesome waves at Nahoon Reef and Jeffrey's Bay Super Tubes or take in the breathtaking beauty of the Wild Coast from a micro light. Our heritage sites include archaeological sites, rock art, fossils, historic mission settlements, graves and burial sites, battlefields, colonial architecture and fortifications which serve as permanent reminders of our turbulent past.
Eastern Cape facts in brief
Capital: Bhisho
Well-known city: Port Elizabeth
Area: 170616 km² (13,9% of South Africa)
Population: 6 743 800
Density: 37,7 km² ; 55,4% urban
Annual Population Growth: 2,6%
Age Dependency Ratio: 3,7
Life Expectancy: 59,6 years
Literacy: 67,7%
GGP: R18339 million GGP/Capita:R2971
Human Development Index: 0,48
The Khoisan Cultural Village
The Khoisan Cultural Village at Bloukrans Bridge displays Khoisan heritage. Authentically decorated huts offer accommodation, and there are lectures on history, traditional meals on an open fire, Khoisan dancers, guided tours, medicinal plant demos and arts and crafts. Ride a quad bike through the adjacent forest.
Climate
The coastal area of the Eastern Cape lies directly between the subtropical conditions of the Western Cape, while its inland area is bisected by the Great Escarpment, resulting in the southern reaches defined by a series of rivers and corresponding wetland fauna and flora, while the northern areas are those of the altitudinous plains of the Plateau and the Great Karoo. The average daily temperatures along the coast are: max. 28°C in January and 21°C in July; min. 17°C in January and 9°C in July. Up towards the Free State, at towns such as Lady Grey and Aliwal North, the rise in altitude means the appropriate lowering in temperature.