The Alfred Nzo region of the Eastern Cape occupies a small part of a district that is dominated by the mighty Drakensberg mountains, characterised by clear mountain streams and offers a wealth of activities that explore this natural wonderland – perfect for those looking to venture off the beaten track. more

In discovering South Africa's myths and legends, you will journey to the many beautiful and remote areas peopled by storytellers who perpetuate an important oral tradition. Their tales will fascinate you while the landscape gently lulls you into believing what South Africans have believed for centuries: there is a marvelous magic in our fresh air. more

They are the descendants of the San (Bushman) and Khoi – ancient people who roamed South Africa. They sleep under the stars and travel the byways of the Great Karoo, South Africa's outback. They call themselves 'Karretjiemense' – the cart people – and they sell their services to the massive livestock farms of the district. more

Mama Tofu is the star attraction of Ngxingxolo village near East London in the Eastern Cape. She and her team of cultural dancers and musicians present an afternoon of demonstration, sound and local cuisine that delights visitors. It’s also a good hands-on way of learning about Xhosa history and customs. more

Traditionally, the Xhosa are famous for their brightly coloured clothing and textiles, long-stemmed pipes, beadwork and music. Visit Mgwali village and market and learn how Xhosa arts and crafts are linked to their cultural practices, while enjoying authentic Xhosa hospitality. more

A visit to Khaya La Bantu cultural village in the Eastern Cape will give you a taste of authentic Xhosa hospitality and open your eyes to the role that traditional art and craft play in the cultural identity of the Xhosa people. more

When you visit the Icamagu Institute in the Eastern Cape, prepare to meet a woman who is not only an academic but a diviner, an author and an African spiritualist as well. And be prepared to come away with an armful of coral trees and African medicinal plants. more

If you're after rustic authenticity and big smiles, then Port St Johns, South Africa is the place for you. Port St Johns is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle, which makes it a wonderful place to have a holiday. more

A morning spent in the Port Elizabeth townships and settlements of Zwide, KwaZakhele and Ramaphosa puts you in the midst of a bustling street market, where sidewalk barbers, wire artists and hooting taxis hold sway. And rest assured – your touring company is an expert crew with a social conscience. more

From its well-run little hospital to its porcelain- and glass-filled Heritage Museum, from its legend-rich Dutch Reformed Church to its stately old Victorian-era hotel, the Eastern Cape town of Adelaide is a warm community that welcomes visitors – and it is very proud of its steaks, biltong and frontier history. more

If you get the chance to go tracking cheetahs on foot at Samara, don’t hesitate. Get those boots on, follow your experienced guide, and go stalking through the bush. Chances are you’ll see one of the loveliest of all the cats dozing under a tree, hunting, or on a kill. more

Walk the Victorian-era streets of Cradock, enter the local hotel and be transported right back to 1850, when adventurers and explorers rubbed shoulders at the long bar. Or ome to Cradock in October and do friendly battle with the Great Fish River in 1 of South Africa’s premier kayak races. more

Not far from Port St Johns on the Wild Coast is Umngazi River Bungalows and Spa, a seaside resort beloved by many South African families. The owners and managers strive to improve the lives of their staff and the local community, and their actions speak louder than words. more

Set in a curl of the Sundays River, the Karoo town of Graaff-Reinet is the fourth oldest settlement in South Africa and has seen more than 2 centuries of travellers, adventurers and prospectors pass through its streets. Today it is a vibrant centre for tourism, game farming and traditional agriculture. more