Mthatha

Mthatha, formerly known as Umtata, is the main urban hub of the eastern part of the Eastern Cape province and served as the capital of the Transkei homeland from 1976 to 1994. Situated on the banks of the Mthatha River, the city is world-renowned for its connection to Nelson Mandela, who grew up in the nearby village of Qunu and is buried there. The Nelson Mandela Museum, housed in the historic Bunga building, is a central landmark dedicated to the life and legacy of the anti-apartheid icon. Today, Mthatha is a major educational and commercial center, home to the Walter Sisulu University and serving as a critical supply point for the surrounding rural districts. The city's atmosphere is a mix of historic colonial administration and rapid modern growth, reflecting its role as a regional capital. It also serves as the primary gateway to the Wild Coast, providing travelers access to some of South Africa's most rugged and beautiful coastal landscapes.

Nearby cities

Gqeberha

Formerly known as Port Elizabeth, this coastal city is a major hub for the South African automotive industry.

East London

South Africa's only river port city is situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River on the Indian Ocean.

Kariega

Formerly called Uitenhage, this industrial town is heavily involved in the production of cars and tires.

Bhisho

This small town serves as the administrative capital of the Eastern Cape province and houses government buildings.

Komani

A town surrounded by mountains, historically designed as a strategic outpost.

Makhanda

Previously known as Grahamstown, the city is famous for its educational institutions and annual arts festival.

Graaff-Reinet

The fourth-oldest town in the country, enclosed by a bend of the Sundays River, full of Cape Dutch architecture.

Aliwal North

The town on the Orange River is mostly known for its hot mineral springs, drawing many visitors.

Cradock

A historic gem in the heart of the Karoo, renowned for its Victorian architecture and as a gateway to the Mountain Zebra National Park.

Jeffreys Bay

World-renowned as a surfer's paradise, this town offers endless beaches, famous waves, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a vibrant coastal town situated on the Kowie River, offering magnificent beaches and a bustling marina.

Gonubie

A scenic coastal town near East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape, known for its river mouth and sandy beaches.

Bushman's River Mouth

Bushman's River Mouth is a picturesque coastal town on the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its spectacular river estuary.

Port Edward

Port Edward is a popular resort town on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, near the border with the Eastern Cape.

Port St Johns

An untouched destination on the Wild Coast, where massive cliffs meet the ocean and a relaxed, alternative vibe prevails.

History & landmarks

Port Elizabeth City Hall

A historic government building featuring a prominent clock tower in the center of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Addo

World-famous for its Elephant National Park, Addo offers unparalleled wildlife safaris in the malaria-free Eastern Cape.

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) featuring a distinctive roof design.

Owl House

A fascinating house and sculpture garden created by outsider artist Helen Martins in Nieu-Bethesda.

More places

Wild Coast

An untouched, rugged coastline on the Indian Ocean.

Port of East London

South Africa's only remaining river port, situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River.

Mercedes-Benz Plant East London

A premier automotive plant responsible for manufacturing the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Amathole Mountains

A forested mountain range in the Eastern Cape.

Winterberg

A mountain region in the Eastern Cape with cooler temperatures.

Mountain Zebra National Park

Conservation area for the rare South African mountain zebra.

Mountain Zebra National Park

A park for the protection of mountain zebras.

Addo Citrus Farm

Discover the cultivation of citrus fruits in the Addo region.