East London to KuGompo City, Graaff-Reinet to Robert Sobukwe Town, and More : What These New Names Mean for Your Next Trip to South Africa – Travel And Tour World

South Africa has launched a significant geographic renaming initiative, officially gazetting the new names of several key towns in the Eastern Cape region. This change, confirmed in Government Gazette No. 54101 on February 6, 2026, reflects the country’s evolving cultural landscape, as well as its growing focus on promoting a deeper sense of historical and cultural pride. For travelers, tourism professionals, and travel planners across sub-Saharan Africa, this marks a pivotal moment in how destinations are marketed, referenced, and navigated throughout the country.

The newly renamed towns include East London, which will now be known as KuGompo City, and Graaff-Reinet, which will be renamed Robert Sobukwe Town. Additionally, several smaller towns in the Eastern Cape will also undergo name changes, such as Aberdeen becoming Xamdeboo, Adendorp now becoming Bishop Limba, and Barkly East being renamed Ekhephini. These updates will gradually filter into official tourism platforms, mapping services, and travel documentation.

The Renaming Process and Its Implications

While these new names will gradually become more prominent across official platforms, travelers should expect a period of transition where dual-naming may be used. For example, travelers may still see both East London (KuGompo City) or Graaff-Reinet (Robert Sobukwe Town) in travel documents, flight tickets, hotel bookings, and GPS systems. This strategy is intended to make the transition easier, especially for those unfamiliar with the new names, while providing a sense of continuity during the adoption phase.

Travelers using GPS or maps may notice the gradual inclusion of these new place names on their navigation devices. Road signage will be updated over time, and travelers should be aware of the changes when planning their trips in the coming months. This adjustment period ensures a smoother transition as travelers and the tourism industry alike get accustomed to the new nomenclature.

KuGompo City: A New Chapter for East London

East London, now officially KuGompo City, remains one of South Africa’s most popular coastal destinations. Known for its scenic beaches such as Nahoon and Gonubie, KuGompo City has long been a favorite stopover for travelers exploring the Wild Coast. With this name change, the city is not only reinforcing its cultural identity but also embracing its future as a hub for tourism and business in the Eastern Cape.

KuGompo City’s beaches are a major draw for both international and domestic tourists. It is also home to the East London Museum, which features one of the world’s rarest specimens—the coelacanth fish. The city’s location along the Wild Coast makes it an ideal starting point for road trips, with travelers able to easily access the rugged, untouched beauty of this part of South Africa.

Robert Sobukwe Town: Honouring Legacy in Graaff-Reinet

Graaff-Reinet, now known as Robert Sobukwe Town, is situated in the Karoo region and has been a long-standing destination for tourists interested in South Africa’s rich history and natural beauty. The town, famous for its well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture, is also home to the dramatic Valley of Desolation and Camdeboo National Park, making it an essential stop for those exploring the country’s heritage and natural wonders.

Renaming Graaff-Reinet to Robert Sobukwe Town honors the legacy of the late Robert Sobukwe, a prominent anti-apartheid leader. His legacy is tied to the struggle for freedom and justice in South Africa, and this renaming reinforces the country’s commitment to acknowledging its diverse and complex past. The new name will also draw attention to the rich historical narrative of the area, making it an even more compelling destination for history enthusiasts and tourists interested in South Africa’s journey to freedom.

Exploring New Names in Smaller Eastern Cape Towns

The renaming extends beyond the major towns, with several smaller towns also receiving new identities. Aberdeen becomes Xamdeboo, Adendorp is now Bishop Limba, and Barkly East is renamed Ekhephini. These towns, although less well-known, play an important role in South Africa’s cultural landscape. As the names of these towns are gradually updated in travel systems, it will be important for travelers planning road trips through the Eastern Cape to be aware of the changes in order to avoid confusion.

The Eastern Cape’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture make it a fantastic destination for road-trippers and nature lovers. These newly named towns are gateways to exploring the stunning vistas of the region, including the Addo Elephant Park and the Tsitsikamma National Park, both of which are significant attractions for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts.

Tourism and Travel Professionals Adjusting to the Changes

For those in the travel and tourism industry, these name changes will require careful planning and adaptation. Travel agents and tour operators in South Africa will need to update marketing materials, itineraries, and bookings to reflect the official names. As part of the tourism industry’s ongoing efforts to embrace cultural diversity, this renaming initiative supports South Africa’s broader tourism marketing strategy, which highlights the country’s unique cultural history and tourism offerings.

Conclusion

For the African travel industry as a whole, this renaming is seen as a positive step toward enhancing the global visibility of South Africa’s regions. As more international tourists flock to South Africa, travel professionals must keep pace with these changes to ensure seamless travel experiences for visitors.

South Africa’s renaming of historic towns such as East London to KuGompo City and Graaff-Reinet to Robert Sobukwe Town marks a turning point in the country’s tourism and cultural identity. For travelers, these changes signify a deeper connection to South Africa’s heritage, offering an enriched travel experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty.