The Eastern Cape is a huge, diverse area, with dramatic scenery, lush green valleys, rugged coastlines, spectacular mountain ranges and of course the Addo Elephant National Park. It’s an area popular with outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and horse riding. There are also some wonderful beaches,accompanied by some epic surfing! The region is also known for its culture — particularly the Xhosa people — and there are a number of fascinating traditional villages to visit. If you’re looking for a complete change of scenery from the bustle of city life, then this is the place to come. The best lodges in Eastern Cape are generally located in the rural areas, but there are a few beach options too.
Hogsback
"Not everyone's cup of tea" or so they say themselves, the environmentally conscious traveller will simply adore this hotel. Completely off the grid, there are no plug points, no TVs, no waste. It's an impressive operation. With pristine riding trails and eco-chic interiors its an immersive stay.
Eastern Cape
Family-owned eco lodged in a truly rugged positioning, on the wild Mdumbi coastline. Each of the eight thatched cottages provides simple yet comfortable accommodation: perfect for those who want to get back to nature. There's a pool, family accommodation, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Addo
An excellent value family stay with a long list of outdoor activities and flexible accommodation. Comfortable rooms are the perfect base from which to explore Addo Elephant Park. Hearty South African dining is on the menu, plus there's an inviting pool. A great choice.
Storms River
Family and budget friendly, this great-outdoorsy hotel provides laidback living for all ages. Flexible accommodation includes outdoor terraces, opening up onto gardens teeming with wildlife (make friends with the resident chameleons)! A buffet breakfast is the perfect start to a day's exploring.
Addo
Traditional African style huts, with thatched roofs, concealing luxurious interiors and quirky bathrooms. Each includes its own private sit out from which to watch the birds and wildlife pass by. There's a pool, excellent safari opportunities, as well as a strong environmental ethos.
Eastern Cape
Luxurious well-priced accommodation with a bounty of outdoor activities right on your doorstep. Get the camping experience, with luxurious tents and smart bathrooms. An enormous breakfast is served each morning. You're well taken care of by your dedicated hosts. A great stay.
Addo (Rietvlei Road, )
A very well priced family stay. There is something for everyone here, wildlife safaris, spa treatments, cycling, and even yoga classes - all ages will love. A hearty breakfast is included, to set you up for a day spent exploring. Excellently located for visits to Addo Elephant Park.
Addo
This colonial style lodge, boasting traditional thatched roof and surrounded by the wilderness of Addo National Park, just 8km away. Beautiful rooms include exposed beams, boldly upholstered furnishings and antique Persian rugs. Excellent cuisine and romantic rooms plus daily safaris.
Storms River (Stormsriver, )
Occupying an epic setting, overlooking the Sanddrift River Gorge. Like a scene from Jurassic Park, the restaurant boasts views across a 30m waterfall, accompanied by a gourmet breakfast: a great way to start the day. Luxurious cottages and lavish bathrooms, plus there's a pool, sauna, and hot tub.
Eastern Cape
Located an hour's drive from East London this relaxing nine bedroom lodge provides lavish accommodation surrounded by the rugged bushveld. Each of its rooms includes opulent interiors and boasts a private balcony. There's an outdoor pool plus a spa and fine dining. Lots of activities on site.
Addo
This intimate lodge, within easy reach of the wilderness of Addo Elephant Park, provides a pampering backdrop during your stay in the Eastern Cape. Fine dining, a long list of spa treatments, lavish suites and modern bathrooms: it all makes for a very romantic stay. Outdoor activities abound.
Chintsa (Chintsa, )
Very romantic, beautifully decorated hotel within easy reach of Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve. A great stay for couples, or those who like the great outdoors, but enjoy life's luxuries a little more. Sprawling suites include ensuites with cavernous baths. Excellent dining. A wonderful stay.
Addo
Excellent value luxurious lodge this seven bedroom stay provides guests with very comfortable rooms: four-poster beds and Victorian style bathrooms with clawfoot tubs and monochrome tiles. There's an inviting pool, fine dining, and guests can choose between 4x4, walking, and elephant safaris.
Addo (EASTERN CAPE)
Set within the rugged surrounds of Addo Elephant National Park overlooked by the Zuurberg Mountains. There is a long list of outdoor activities, so it's very popular with families and al fresco spa treatments means adults can relax too! Candle-lit dining, luxury rooms - it's a popular stay.
Eastern Cape
Surrounded by thousands of acres of wild terrain, with 360° views across the Plains of Camdeboo. Choose from cheetah tracking to walking safaris, and picnic out in the wild. With admirable sustainability efforts, this property is passionate about conservation. Beautiful suites and fine dining.
Addo
Well priced, all-inclusive lodge accommodation providing luxurious interiors and excellent value. Each of its thatched cottages offers an authentic African stay amidst the wilderness with the benefit of four-poster beds, private terraces, and enormous baths. Twice daily safaris should not be missed.
Addo
With just four bedrooms, this lodge is a very intimate experience. With tailored family accommodation, it's a great stay for all ages. Each room and tent provides luxurious interiors, depending on your preference. Make friends with your four-legged neighbours on a safari drive!
Addo
Charming property providing both tented and lodge accommodation. Children are well looked after with special kids safaris and a children's club, plus tailored menus and family suites. Every room boasts fabulous views, choose between four posters and lavish tents. All include spoiling bathrooms.
Eastern Cape (Greater Addo, )
Stunning modern built safari lodge decorated in a contemporary style with sweeping views. Each of its nine suites is exquisitely decorated, with en-suites boasting enormous tubs and floor to ceiling windows to gaze out of. Plenty of activities plus spa treatments and superb dining.
Port Elizabeth (Kariega Game Reserve,)
Five-star luxury lodge boasting a long list of spa treatments and outdoor activities. Adults only, guests are in for a pampering stay. Each of the ten suites boasts sweeping views, enormous bathrooms, and the best private pools. Dine to your heart's content at this all-inclusive lodge.
Eastern Cape
Epic river location, right along the banks of the majestic Bushman's River. Perfect for families with older children (above 10s welcome) there is so much to keep all ages entertained: safaris, fishing, sailing, guided walks, and spa treatments. Charming cottage interiors and five-star dining.
Eastern Cape ((90 km from Port Elizabeth on the N2 towards Graha)
Stunning ten-bedroom lodge located on the private Lalibela Game Reserve. Choose between tent and lodge accommodation, both wonderfully luxurious. Ideal for families, there is an outdoor children playground and pool. Rooms include balconies with far reaching views. Fine dining and daily safaris.
Eastern Cape (Kenton-On-Sea)
Ideal for families, choose between one-bedroom and three-bedroom villa accommodation in an epic setting. This all-inclusive stay means you can enjoy dining, safaris and many other perks to your heart's content. Rooms are decorated in a cosy style with exposed wood and roll top baths.
Eastern Cape
Five-star accommodation surrounded by rugged bushveld home to Africa's Big Five! This intimate four-bedroom private game reserve is perfect for couples, providing privacy and luxurious interiors. Each cottage includes a private terrace for stargazing. The pool boasts incredible views. Stunning.
Eastern Cape
Romantic ten-bedroom lodge with cosy cottages and lavish interiors. This adults-only property boasts a superb menu and intimate al fresco dining. Relax by the infinity pool and watch the wildlife pass. Each suite includes four-poster beds, a private balcony, enormous baths, and his and hers basins.
Addo
Five-star stay amidst the famed Addo Elephant National Park. Relax in the lavish setting of your colonial-style tent to the sound of the plains. Candle-lit dining is the height of luxury - every creature comfort is taken care of. There's an inviting pool (the guest's own watering hole) to unwind.
Eastern Cape
All out luxury this contemporary, architecturally beautiful lodge provides chic accommodation in a rugged setting. Sprawling rooms provide a lavish stay with sink into bathtubs boasting epic views. Superb dining, an inviting bar, and a picture worthy infinity pool.
Eastern Cape
Private game reserve comprised of five different properties, all different, all equally as luxurious. Choose between exclusive use villas and stylish suites. Superb wildlife opportunities, gourmet dining, spa treatments, and plenty to keep the little ones busy. Excellent eco credentials.
Addo
An ultimate five-star stay. These luxurious suites boast private pools, opulent interiors, enormous bathrooms and epic views. There is an open-air spa, offering traditional treatments, as well as a gourmet menu and al fresco dining. Wildlife is on your doorstep at this all-inclusive stay.