South Africa Renames Eastern Cape Towns and Landmarks: All You Need to Know – Travel And Tour World

In a significant move to reshape its cultural identity, South Africa has officially renamed several key towns in the Eastern Cape region. This decision, published in Government Gazette No. 54101 on February 6, 2026, marks the start of a large-scale geographic renaming process. The renaming is set to have a profound impact on travelers, tourism marketing, and travel logistics across the country, especially in the Eastern Cape, which has become a hotspot for heritage-driven changes.

The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, under the South African Geographical Names Council Act, spearheaded this initiative. It aims to honor the region’s cultural and historical significance, but it also poses logistical challenges for travelers, local businesses, and the tourism sector as a whole. The changes, which hold legal status, are gradually being incorporated into road signage, GPS systems, and tourism marketing efforts. While the new names will be adopted officially, dual-naming will be used during the transition period to ensure clarity for tourists and locals.

Key Name Changes in Eastern Cape

One of the most notable changes is the renaming of East London to KuGompo City. This coastal town, a popular gateway for travelers, is home to stunning beaches like Nahoon and Gonubie. It is also a crucial stop on Wild Coast road trips. KuGompo City has long been a key part of the tourism landscape in South Africa, attracting both local and international visitors.

Another significant renaming is Graaff-Reinet, now known as Robert Sobukwe Town. Located in the heart of the Karoo region, Robert Sobukwe Town is famous for its historical significance and stunning landscapes, including the Valley of Desolation and Camdeboo National Park. The town’s rich heritage and cultural landmarks make it a favorite for history buffs and travelers seeking a deeper connection to South Africa’s past.

Smaller towns in the Eastern Cape have also received new names as part of this cultural overhaul. Aberdeen has been renamed Xamdeboo, Adendorp is now Bishop Limba, and Barkly East is now Ekhephini. These towns, though less visited, are important for travelers exploring the rural and scenic parts of the region.

Implications for Travelers

For travelers, these renaming efforts represent more than just a change in place names. The practical implications are vast, especially in how these names will appear in travel documents, maps, and booking platforms. With such a large-scale renaming, GPS systems, road signage, and digital maps will need to be updated, and travelers should expect some inconsistencies during the transition period.

As South Africa’s tourism industry adapts, travelers will likely encounter both old and new names, particularly in official and public settings. In the coming years, new names will become more prominent in official travel references, while old names may still be used informally by locals and long-time visitors. It’s important to note that while road signage will eventually reflect the new names, this process will take time.

One of the biggest impacts will be on booking platforms and airline documents. Travelers planning to visit key destinations in the Eastern Cape should double-check their itineraries to ensure the new names are included in their travel plans. For example, KuGompo City (formerly East London) and Robert Sobukwe Town (formerly Graaff-Reinet) will need to be reflected in future hotel and tour bookings.

Renaming of Mountain Passes

Along with towns and cities, even iconic mountain passes in the Eastern Cape are undergoing a name change. Barkly Pass (R58), a popular route for road travelers, will now be known as Mbombo Pass. Similarly, Kraai River Pass (R58) has been renamed Tyumbu Pass. These changes are particularly significant for road travelers exploring the Eastern Cape Highlands and those venturing into the Karoo. Travelers will need to update their maps and GPS devices to reflect these new names to avoid confusion during their journeys.

How This Will Affect Tourism Marketing

Tourism operators in the region are expected to revise their marketing materials to align with the new geographical names. Websites, brochures, and other promotional materials will need to reflect both the old and new names during the transitional phase. This dual-naming strategy will help avoid confusion among tourists, especially international visitors who may not be familiar with South Africa’s ongoing renaming process.

As these changes take effect, South African tourism boards are likely to promote the new names through both traditional and digital marketing channels. It’s crucial for tourism professionals to remain informed about these updates, as failure to do so could lead to outdated or inaccurate information being shared with potential visitors.

The Future of South Africa’s Renaming Efforts

South Africa’s geographic renaming efforts are not limited to the Eastern Cape. The broader goal of this initiative is to honor the country’s diverse cultural and historical legacy, ensuring that its geography accurately reflects the nation’s heritage. Over the coming years, travelers will see more regions undergo similar name changes, reshaping the way South Africa’s destinations are marketed and explored.

While the renaming process will undoubtedly bring challenges for travelers, it also presents an exciting opportunity to engage with the country’s rich history and culture on a deeper level. As the new names take hold, South Africa’s tourism industry will be better positioned to showcase the vibrant and diverse heritage that makes the nation a compelling destination for travelers worldwide.