East London – Self Drive Tour of the Area

• By: Editor
• On: 10/Oct/2008
• In: South Africa Travel Tips

Attractions to explore in the East London area…

British settlers founded East London in 1847 on the only river port in South Africa, Port Rex. It was the scene of many battles between the British Forces and the Xhosa native tribes in the area. Owing to the great trade in Port Rex, the population and manufacturing industry grew significantly, expanding into East London as we today. The most important industry in the region is automobile manufacture; other industries include pharmaceuticals and textiles.
The city has a great tradition of sport including rugby, motor racing and cricket.

East London is a perfect base for touring other parts of South Africa when you hire a car.
Although the city is now bypassed by the N2, the N2 is easily accessed, and this National Road will enable you to reach both Durban and Cape Town. The N6 road connects the city with Bloemfontein. East London has its own airport, just 10km from the city centre, and has connecting air routes to all of the main regions in South Africa.

Around the city, there's lots to do and see. Apart from the golden sandy beaches, you can take a trip to the East London Museum, which has exhibitions relating to the animals found in the area, and also the prehistoric fish, the Coelacanth, which was discovered by local fisherman in 1938.

There are other museums and art galleries to be found in East London, the City Hall and the Ann Bryant Gallery are well worth a visit. The Queens Park Zoo and Botanic Gardens is a great place to spend an afternoon with the kids along with the East London Aquarium and Ocean Viewing Deck, where you can see many types of different fish and penguins.

Find out more about East London.

The following are some of the main attractions that you can visit as you drive in the East London area:

Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve…

Located just 30km northeast of East London, on the N2, is the Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve. It's home to many different animals; lions, tigers, elephants, buffalos, giraffes and zebras. For the explorer, camp accommodation can be arranged at the Valley Camp on the reserve. You can take guided tours if you wish.

Find out more the Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve.

Mpotshane Private Game Reserve…

The Game Reserve at Mpotshane, which is located 50km from East London near Komga, boasts stunning views of the surrounding area. It's positioned on the N2 heading towards Durban. The reserve is situated in a mountainous setting with waterfalls and marvellous cliff faces. You can also rent lodge accommodation at the reserve and feel free to drive around the reserve. 

There's also wonderful game, plant and birdlife waiting to be explored at Mpotshane. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities here as well including quad drives, game drives, fishing, game and bird watching. To get here, take the N2 to Umtata and follow the signs for the game reserve.

Find out more about Mpotshane.

The Lion Park East London…

East London has its own game reserve, which is located just 5km from the city on the N6. As the name implies, there are mostly lions here, but other animals found here include tigers, giraffes, crocodiles, zebra and plenty of bird life.

Find out more about the East London Lion Park.

Addo National Elephant Park…

If you want to see what is possibly the most impressive National Park in South Africa, the Addo National Elephant Park is a must. Within the park you'll see elephants, lions, rhino and buffalo, and there's accommodation for visitors on a camping site and game lodges – it's advisable to book this well in advance though! The park is located about 200 km from East London.
 
Find out more about Addo National Elephant Park.

Wild Coast Trail…

Headiing north from East London, in the direction of Durban, you'll find the Wild Coast Trail. This is a scenic 280km trail along the Wild Coast from Port Shepstone to East London. Hiking, biking, diving and fishing are popular activities in the area. 

Find out more about the Wild Coast Trail.

So, if you're visiting East London, and wish to take a self drive tour of the area, why not book your car hire East London.

If you have any comments or questions we'd be delighted to hear from you. Leave a message in the comment box below and we'll get back to you.