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An untamed wilderness
The Alfred Nzo region
Xhosa woman in traditional dress
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The Alfred Nzo region, Eastern Cape, is named after Alfred Nzo, a key player in South Africa's freedom struggle.
The Alfred Nzo region covers less than 8 000 square kilometres, making it the smallest of all Eastern Cape districts. But what it lacks in size, it makes up soul - the area is a nature lover's paradise, with spectacular mountains, hiking trails, trout fishing hotspots and abundant birdlife rating as top attractions in the Alfred Nzo region.
The Alfred Nzo Eastern Cape region is in the most north-eastern corner of the Eastern Cape, bordering the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. It once formed part of the Transkei, an independent homeland under the apartheid government. Due to the lack of infrastructure afforded to the area in the past, it has remained rural and untouched by commercial ventures.
It's a remote, mountainous area, located at a very high altitude - more than 1 000 feet above sea level. This makes it prone to high rainfall and very cold winters that usually bring with them snow.
But these two factors combine to offer an exciting tourism experience that delivers an untouched wilderness beckoning for exploration.
So get out there and explore! V isit the Mountain Lake Nature Reserve, just outside Matatiele, and see its famed wetlands; canoe the mountain streams around Matatiele; or hike the Mehloding Nature Trail, which traverses the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains and rural villages, and features undocumented rock art.
If you enjoy the solitude of fishing, you've come to the right place. This area is a major trout fishing hotspot and offers a number of beautiful destinations that are perfect for this pastime.
The Alfred Nzo region features a rich cultural tapestry, centred around a number of key South African cultural groups. To experience this hospitality and way of life first hand, visit the Isinamva Cultural Village, just outside Mount Frere. It promises an authentic African experience and you won't be disappointed.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
The Eastern Cape Tourism Board
Tel: +27 (0) 43 701 9600
E-mail: info@ectourism.co.za
Open Africa
Tel: +27 (0) 21 683 9639
E-mail: admin@openafrica.org
How to get here
Fly direct from any of South Africa’s major cities to East London Airport.
If you’re driving; from Johannesburg take the N1 south to Bloemfontein and then the N6 to East London. Pick up the N2 at East London and head east to Mount Frere, from where you can explore the region.
If travelling from Cape Town or Durban, take the N2 east and west respectively to Mount Frere and then head north into the Alfred Nzo region.
Tours to do
Cultural tour at Isinamva Cultural Village; the Mehloding Nature Trail, cultural village tours at Matatiele.
Get around
Because the area is so remote, getting around by car is essential
Length of stay
While day trips can be planned, it is best to allocate a couple of days up to one week to explore the region.
Where to stay
The Masakala Traditional Guesthouse, near Matatiele, which offers Sotho and Xhosa hospitality and traditional accommodation and food.
What to eat
Traditional African fare at the Isinamva Cultural Village.
Best buys
Cultural arts and crafts at the Isinamva Cultural Village.