Hogsback

Hogsback is a place of fairy-tale beauty, set high in the Amathole Mountains. It is often whispered that its misty forests and dramatic crags served as an inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings'. The landscape is dominated by ancient yellowwood forests, home to the rare Cape Parrot, and a multitude of waterfalls like the famous 'Madonna and Child'. Hogsback is a sanctuary for hikers, artists, and anyone seeking a deep connection with nature. The village has a quirky and cozy atmosphere, with lush gardens that come alive with color in spring and autumn. In winter, Hogsback frequently transforms into a winter wonderland as snow blankets the peaks and forests. Local pubs and inns offer hearty fare by crackling fireplaces. Reaching the village requires driving up a steep mountain pass from Alice or Cathcart. The best time to visit is autumn (March to May) for the bustling foliage or spring for the garden blooms, while winter is a treat for those hoping to experience snow in Africa.

Nearby cities

Gqeberha

Formerly known as Port Elizabeth, this coastal city is a major hub for the South African automotive industry.

East London

South Africa's only river port city is situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River on the Indian Ocean.

Kariega

Formerly called Uitenhage, this industrial town is heavily involved in the production of cars and tires.

Mthatha

Formerly known as Umtata, it was the capital of the Transkei and is deeply connected to the history of Nelson Mandela.

Bhisho

This small town serves as the administrative capital of the Eastern Cape province and houses government buildings.

Komani

A town surrounded by mountains, historically designed as a strategic outpost.

Makhanda

Previously known as Grahamstown, the city is famous for its educational institutions and annual arts festival.

Graaff-Reinet

The fourth-oldest town in the country, enclosed by a bend of the Sundays River, full of Cape Dutch architecture.

Aliwal North

The town on the Orange River is mostly known for its hot mineral springs, drawing many visitors.

Cradock

A historic gem in the heart of the Karoo, renowned for its Victorian architecture and as a gateway to the Mountain Zebra National Park.

Jeffreys Bay

World-renowned as a surfer's paradise, this town offers endless beaches, famous waves, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a vibrant coastal town situated on the Kowie River, offering magnificent beaches and a bustling marina.

Gonubie

A scenic coastal town near East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape, known for its river mouth and sandy beaches.

Bushman's River Mouth

Bushman's River Mouth is a picturesque coastal town on the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its spectacular river estuary.

Port Edward

Port Edward is a popular resort town on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, near the border with the Eastern Cape.

History & landmarks

Port Elizabeth City Hall

A historic government building featuring a prominent clock tower in the center of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Addo

World-famous for its Elephant National Park, Addo offers unparalleled wildlife safaris in the malaria-free Eastern Cape.

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) featuring a distinctive roof design.

Owl House

A fascinating house and sculpture garden created by outsider artist Helen Martins in Nieu-Bethesda.

More places

Amathole Mountains

A forested mountain range in the Eastern Cape.

Winterberg

A mountain region in the Eastern Cape with cooler temperatures.

Mercedes-Benz Plant East London

A premier automotive plant responsible for manufacturing the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Port of East London

South Africa's only remaining river port, situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River.

Addo Elephant National Park

A well-known park for its elephant herds.

Addo Citrus Farm

Discover the cultivation of citrus fruits in the Addo region.

Mountain Zebra National Park

Conservation area for the rare South African mountain zebra.

Addo Elephant National Park

Reserve famous for its massive elephant herds.