The Eastern Cape province sits between Western Cape and Kwa Zulu Natal and stretches from Tsitsikamma area in the west to Port Edward on the eastern boundary. It is an area rich in cultural history and contains the large towns of Port Elizabeth and Port Edward both with interesting backgrounds of the early settlers.
The Garden Route enters the Eastern Cape from Tsitsikamma and as such, visitors here often include the safari element of their South Africa itinerary in one of the many good game reserves near Port Elizabeth.
Safaris in Eastern Cape - this area offers a range of excellent game reserves, many of them 'big 5' and within easy reach of Port Elizabeth. Mostly offer guided inclusive game viewing in very nice accommodation and open vehicles but in Addo you can self drive if you wish.
Shamwari Game Reserve - founded in 1992, this private and well known reserve covers 20,000 hectares and has received numerous awards for conservation. It is in malaria-free bush land about one hour from Port Elizabeth. There are a range of eco-systems supporting a wide variety of natural history. There are 5 luxury lodges of very different styles in Shamwari, see seperate accommodation listings.
Amakhala Game Reserve is a family run, malaria free reserve with a varied landscape and 4 small lodges to choose from. The guiding here is excellent and there is a good conservation centre.
Addo Elephant Park has been a great conservation success and with the adjoining areas now making up the 'Greater Addo' region, there is a wide variety of game to be found here.