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Game parks and quaint villages in the Eastern Cape
Mbodla Eco-Heritage Route
Historic Bedford on the Mbodla Eco-Heritage Route.
© Chris Marais
Did you know?
The Adelaide Museum has one of the finest collections of Wedgwood porcelain in South Africa.
Your drive on the Mbodla Eco-heritage route could begin in Grahamstown, City of the Saints. The nickname comes from the overwhelming presence of churches and schools named after saints.
Grahamstown, a university town hosting the country's premier annual arts festival, is an architectural joy to visit. Many of the 1820 settlers, who came as farmers, were actually artisans, who continued to practice their craft after moving here.
Head north to the village of Bedford and you may end up buying a house there. Very cute, very Afro-English. Nearby is Adelaide, which has an old, friendly hotel and an excellent country hospital. The beauty of this South African eco-heritage route inspired one of the local doctors to become a fine arts photographer.
Another town much loved by tourists lies up in the misty reaches near the Amatola Mountains - Hogsback. Great for outdoor enthusiasts, Hogsback offers forest walks, birdlife, local crafts and log fires for those chilly winter nights - classic Eastern Cape eco-heritage.
Further up the Mbodla Eco-heritage route there is Fort Beaufort with its preserved Victorian-era military buildings. Your journey leads you up into Katberg, another magnificent mountain village.
The area is prime Eastern Cape eco-heritage: great for hunting and photographic safaris. World-class private game reserves like Kwandwe and Shamwari are part of the route, showcasing the land's immense biodiversity. Here you can find malaria-free safaris and Big 5 bush experiences every bit as enjoyable as their counterparts to the north.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Ramie Xonxa
Tel: +27 (0) 82 932 1304
Web: www.openafrica.org/route/mbodla-eco-heritage-route.
Spirits of the Past Tour
Alan Weyers
Tel: +27(0)46 622 7896/7
Email: info@spiritsofthepast.co.za
Web: www.spiritsofthepast.co.za.
How to get here
Fly to Port Elizabeth, hire a car and drive towards Grahamstown, less than 90 minutes away.
Around the area
This route takes you inland, but bear in mind there are some great beaches nearby, at Kenton-on-Sea, Port Alfred, Port Elizabeth, and if you're on your way to the Wild Coast, East London.
Tours to do
Alan Weyers, based in Grahamstown, offers a fascinating tour called Spirits of the Past. It's a compelling look at the history of the region, and will provide a meaningful context for your travels in this region.
Get around
Having your own car offers the most options.
Length of stay
Three to four days would be ideal. Longer if you really want to explore the area and the towns in-depth.
What to pack
Apart from your camera, some history books on this fascinating region (you can buy them in Grahamstown). And bring your walking shoes.
Where to stay
There's something to suit every pocket here, from luxurious game lodges to budget B&Bs.
What's happening
The Grahamstown Arts Festival in early July, is a feast of theatre, dance and music.