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Addo, Makhanda & the Sunshine Coast: Route Guide

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Elephants at a waterhole in Addo Elephant National Park, Eastern Cape
Photo: Josep M. Gracia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Begin with a self-drive through Addo Elephant National Park, then explore Makhanda's historic centre before reaching the coast at East London. This three-day Eastern Cape journey brings together park scenery, town streets and the sea; wildlife sightings, private reserves and festival events depend on separate arrangements.

Addo, Makhanda & the Sunshine Coast is a 355 km one-way journey (self-drive). It works best as a 3-day trip; the plan below is the 3-day version for October, built from 149 verified places, with planned transit times, opening hours and daylight checked.

3
days
355km
distance
4
Stops
149
curated stops

View ready-made plans 3-day plan · best time to go

The route

Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)→ 45 kmAddo Elephant National Park (Matyholweni)→ 140 kmMakhanda (Grahamstown)→ 170 kmEast London

What you'll see

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
View a curated collection of South African art from the region.
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Addo Matyholweni self-drive circuit
Drive Addo’s public visitor roads from Matyholweni, allowing time to stop safely at viewpoints and waterholes.
Addo Elephant National Park (Matyholweni)
Albany Museum Complex
Explore a family of seven buildings showcasing natural sciences, history, and more.
Makhanda (Grahamstown)
East London Museum
Explore fascinating historical artifacts and cultural traditions brought to life.
East London
South End Museum
Experience exhibits that recall the area's forced removals and heritage.
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
The 1820 Settlers National Monument
Reflect on the legacy of English-speaking settlers in a creatively vibrant space.
Makhanda (Grahamstown)
Ann Bryant Art Gallery
View captivating artworks by celebrated South African artists in a inspiring space.
East London
Kragga Kamma Game Park
Spot rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife on self-guided drives.
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

Choose your length

3-day plan8 stops · 6.8 h transit2.7 stops/day · 2.3 h transit/daySee the full plan →

When to go

Best months: September, October, November, March, April

Eastern Cape winter is often dry and mild inland, while the coast can be windy; carry a warm layer and check current conditions.

See the month-by-month breakdown →

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View ready-made plans