In 2026, the Eastern Cape will continue to trend upwards in popularity, and claim its rightful time in the sun as a safari destination worth its salt. Over time it has evolved from a ‘best-kept secret’ to a primary choice for international and local travellers looking for a safari with certain criteria – but what makes the region such an appealing choice and why is it experiencing increased interest?

The Eastern Cape’s growth in stature as a tourism must is driven by its unique ‘Big Seven’ offerings, malaria-free status, and the rise of sustainable, multi-generational travel. Perfect for families and eco-tourism conscious travellers, its accessibility and diversity make it a win-win.

Key influences in its growing appeal

The province’s appeal is built on several advantages that align with the needs of modern safari travellers. One of these is that the area offers malaria-free Big Five experiences, a critical factor for families and elderly travellers. As a safe environment, the entire Eastern Cape region is malaria-free, offering peace of mind for family, multi-generational, and first-time safari-goers who want to avoid prophylaxis.

Spanning diverse and landscapes from the Karoo to the coast, it also offers a unique ‘bush and beach’ experience that is gaining international recognition. Containing seven distinct biomes – from the arid Karoo and rugged mountains to lush forests and pristine coastlines, it also offers the ‘Big Seven’ – think Big Five plus the addition of whales and sharks (courtesy of its coastlines). Spoilt for choice in the Eastern Cape, visitors have a variety of options as far as private game reserves and beach towns go, each with their own unique attributes.

Ease & accessibility

Easy access to all the region has to offer is also in the plus column: Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) serves as a major gateway, with flight connections from Johannesburg and Cape Town making it an easy extension of the Garden Route – a popular region for travellers, and most reserves are easily reached within a 60 to 90-minute drive from Gqeberha.

As a year-round destination too, it offers great flexibility for families to travel when it suits them best – the region has a temperate climate, making it suitable for visits throughout the year.

Multiple choice – reserves and towns to consider

The Eastern Cape is home to top-tier private game reserves and national parks, which are heavily involved in conservation, with many focusing on rewilding and land restoration, providing guests with an insight into habitat rehabilitation. For a beach experience, the options range from charming coastal towns like Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred, to the dramatic, relatively unspoilt Wild Coast (Coffee Bay, and Morgan Bay).

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve has three main eco systems, from semi karoo, to lush plains and mountain valleys and game is plentiful and varied from the Big 5 to the Small 5. Kariega Game Reserve is also home to the Big Five – this malaria-free Eastern Cape reserve is also just 15 minutes from the Indian Ocean. Lalibela Wildlife Reserve offers an authentic safari experience in one of the country’s most diverse landscapes. Shamwari Private Game Reserve is known for its conservation efforts and luxury – with all its six lodges five-star graded.

Amakhala Game Reserve, close to the cultural town of Grahamstown and 1 hour from Port Elizabeth, lies near Addo Elephant National Park and offers panoramic views of the Valley Bushveld and the nearby Bushman’s River. Samara Private Game Reserve is known for its focus on conservation – a 70,000-acre malaria-free, luxury conservation area near Graaff-Reinet, which features Big Five wildlife, including the elusive cheetah and aardvark, against the backdrop of magnificent Karoo landscapes. And Pumba Private Game Reserve is home to the rare white lion and offers an authentic African safari experience.

Explore with us

With all the scope the Eastern Cape reserves and beach towns offers, the decisions you need to make can feel a little daunting. We are here to help you narrow down your options based on what’s best for you. Chat to us to design an exclusive and less crowded safari and beach experience that offers plentiful natural beauty, and great game viewing for a memorable, family-friendly holiday.