Exciting East London: Three places you MUST visit

Things to do in East London. Photo: canva

With a subtropical climate, warm ocean waters and soft sandy beaches, East London and its surroundings is a popular year-round destination for many. Here’s a few places to visit the next time you’re in the area.

Mpongo Private Game Reserve

Why you should visit: A hidden treasure game reserve about 35km north-west of East London, is the Mpongo Private Game Reserve. Here, you can enjoy guided safaris, self-drives or even just a meal at the restaurant watching hippos in the water. Overnight visitors can choose to stay at the luxurious River or Huberta Lodge.

How to get there: Situated near Macleantown District, N6 National Road, 40km from the East London Airport.

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Hippos at the Mpongo Private Game Reserve. Photo: SA tourism / flickr

Khaya La Bantu Cultural Village

Why you should visit: Take in some culture during your visit, with a tour of a traditional village of the Xhosa people at the Khaya La Bantu Cultural Village just 30km from East London.

The village is located on a working cattle ranch and offers a fascinating insight into the way of life of the local Xhosa people.

Have a traditional meal, be entertained by custom song and dance and browse the craft center. A guest lodge is also available for those who wish to stay overnight.

ALSO READ: New route: CemAir launches Cape Town to East London service

Find authentic hand-crafted items at the craft centre. Photo: canva

Areena Riverside Resort in East London

Why you should visit: For the past 28 years, Areena Riverside Resort has been beloved by Eastern Cape children and adults. Situated on the banks of the Kwelera River, the resort offers back-to-basics accommodation and an adventure centre. Here, everyone feels like a kid again. Camping, abseiling, quad biking, zip lining, paintball and Segway tours keep the adventurous entertained while the stunning river and beach offer up a host of water experiences.

How to get there: 23km east of East London, at the start of the Wild Coast.

How much does it cost: Check here for pricing.

ALSO READ: Eastern Cape falls: Three wonderful waterfalls worth visiting

Haave some four-wheeling fun. Photo: canva

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Sundeeka Mungroo

Sundeeka Mungroo is a content writer, foodie and all-round adventure-seeker. She's a graduate of the University of South Africa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and has worked as a copywriter and editor in the digital marketing industry. Sundeeka currently writes for I Love South Africa and The South African. She lives in the beautiful Mother City and loves exploring all that South Africa has to offer.