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Freedom struggle remembered
Explore OR Tambo region
OR Tambo attraction: the Wild Coast’s Hole in the Wall.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The Nelson Mandela Museum has three different locations denoting the stages of Mandela's life.
The OR Tambo region of the Eastern Cape is considered by many to be the birthplace of South African democracy. Its two greatest sons, Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo, were instrumental in the country's freedom struggle. Many of the OR Tambo attractions honour these men and their fallen comrades and speak to their legacy.
OR Tambo tourism is very much centred around this historical significance. Highlights include a visit to the Nelson Mandela Museum, which chronicles the life of this amazing man, and freedom tours that are offered in and around the area.
Closely linked to this historical heritage is the province's culture. The Eastern Cape has traditionally been the ancestral stronghold of the Xhosa nation. If you're looking to dip into this fascinating culture, be sure to book a visit to one of the OR Tambo region's many traditional Xhosa villages.
Jonopo Village at Qunu, which is just a few kilometres from the Mandela family home, showcases some of the Xhosa rites and rituals in a traditional African setting.
There's an absolute wealth of natural beauty just waiting to be discovered in the OR Tambo region, with its rugged coastline, untouched fauna and dramatic rock formations.
The region incorporates part of the famous Wild Coast - a 200 kilometre stretch of untamed coast along the Indian Ocean that seems completely forgotten by time.
This magnificent area features rivers, lagoons and several shipwrecks; Hole in the Wall, a geological wonder; and a number of beautiful coastal villages, including Coffee Bay, Umngazi and Port St. Johns.
Venture inland to explore Pondoland with its rich and vibrant culture or grab your field guide and head for Hluleka, Silaka, Dwesa and Cwebe nature reserves to experience the region's amazing natural diversity first hand.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
The Eastern Cape Tourism Board:
Tel: +27 (0) 43 701 9600
E-mail: info@ectourism.co.za
Eastern Cape Parks:
Tel: +27 (0) 43 705 4400
E-mail: reservations@ecparks.co.za
How to get here
Fly direct from any of South Africa’s major cities to Port Elizabeth International Airport.
If you’re driving; from Johannesburg take the N1 south and then the N9 after Colesberg. Pick up the N10 at Middleburg to Port Elizabeth.
From Port Elizabeth, travel east along the N2, past East London to Mthatha, the centre of OR Tambo region.
If travelling from Cape Town or Durban, take the N2 east and west respectively to Mthatha.
Tours to do
Nelson Mandela Museum; Nelson Mandela’s birthplace at Qunu; whale watching at Coffee Bay and Port St Johns (from June to November); Wild Coast tour; cultural village tour.
Get around
It is best to explore the region by car
Length of stay
The area could take one to two weeks to explore fully, but comprehensive day trips can be planned.
What to eat
Local seafood, traditional African fare.
Best buys
Nelson Mandela keepsakes at the Nelson Mandela Museum.