Officially known as Buffalo City, East London is situated along the extensive Eastern Cape coastline, about three hoursโ drive from Nelson Mandela Bay and between eight and nine hours from Durban. East London is a fab getaway for those wanting to spend hot summers lazing in the sun or swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters. However, there is so much more to this growing city.
10 reasons to visit East London and include it on your vacation itinerary
Affordability
The Eastern Cape is, in general, one of the most affordable destinations in South Africa, and East London is no exception. Accommodation, dining out, entertainment and popular tourist attractions and activities are priced perfectly, making East London ideal for large families or groups of visitors.
Good weather
Hot, dry summers and temperate winters mean that East London is not really restricted as a destination at any time of the year. Of course, those wanting to visit one of the many popular East London beaches โ Eastern Beach, Nahoon Beach, Bonza Bay and Kidds Beach being just a few โ should do so out of the winter months (July to August).
Heritage and History
This area was left untouched by colonialists and settlers for generations, home only to the indigenous South African people. As such, it has a distinct sense of history and a fascinating heritage. These are best seen at the East London Natural History Museum (which displays the only known Dodo egg in the world), the Ann Bryant Art Gallery, Gately House, Calgary Transport Museum and the Steve Biko Garden of Remembrance. City Hall also makes for a worthwhile visit.
Landscape
East London is the only river port in the country, making it a rather interesting sight to see. The stretches of coastline, the rolling hills and the lush greenery combine to create a very pretty destination.
Diversity
This aspect of East London makes for a holiday destination that caters to the needs of everyone. There is a mixture of exciting activities, interesting attractions, beautiful scenery, intriguing people and plenty more.
Wildlife
South Africa is a haven of wildlife, nurturing some of the most beautiful and exciting species in the world. In East London, some of these animals can be seen at Queens Park Zoo, the Gonubie Nature Reserve and the aquarium. Whale watching is a popular pastime between July and December. The Lion Park is always a favourite, whether visitors are seeing these majestic animals with experienced eyes or for the very first time.
Shopping
There are a number of big malls, exclusive boutiques and markets throughout East London that offer visitors everything from gadgets and gorgeous fashion to top-of-the-range vehicles and luxurious accessories.
Entertainment
Restaurants, night clubs, casinos and the waterfront development all ensure that visitors donโt have a minute to be bored.
Sports
With the many beaches that line the border of East London, it is no wonder that watersports are popular here. Surfing, SCUBA diving, snorkeling, sailing, swimming, and waterskiing all keep the locals very busy, and invite visitors to join these ones in making the most of a gorgeous destination. This town has also been the home of many famous sportsmen and โwomen, including Makhaya Ntini and Peter Kirsten.
Accessibility
The King Shaka International Airport is located in Durban, which is eight to nine hours’ drive from East London. This airport welcomes visitors from all over the world on a daily basis. The roads between East London and Durban, Port Elizabeth, and other major metropolises are well maintained and safe to drive.
Destination Info
- East London Attractions
- East London Accommodation
- East London Hotels
- Eastern Cape Hotels
- South Africa Hotels
