From bush to beach: Why the Eastern Cape is ideal for a winter escape

As South Africans look for more practical and affordable ways to travel this winter, shorter getaways are becoming increasingly popular.

Rather than planning lengthy holidays, many travellers are seeking destinations that offer convenience, value and memorable experiences within a few days.

This growing trend is shining a spotlight on the Eastern Cape, a region that combines Big Five wildlife encounters, conservation-focused tourism and easy accessibility. With the added appeal of recent seasonal rains, which have seen the Bushman’s River flow through parts of Amakhala Game Reserve for the first time in almost a decade, the area is offering visitors an especially rewarding winter safari experience.

Known for its wide-open landscapes and lower visitor numbers compared to some of South Africa’s more established safari destinations, the Eastern Cape has steadily gained recognition among local and international travellers. The region also offers the opportunity to combine bush and beach experiences in a single itinerary, thanks to its proximity to the Garden Route and Indian Ocean coastline.

Sustainability is increasingly influencing travel decisions, with many holidaymakers choosing destinations that contribute positively to conservation and local communities. Private game reserves across the Eastern Cape play an important role in supporting wildlife protection, employment opportunities and low-impact tourism.

Among these reserves is Amakhala Game Reserve, where tourism revenue helps support ongoing conservation efforts. Lion Roars Hotels & Lodges, which operates Hlosi Game Lodge and Bukela Game Lodge within the reserve, says it continues to see strong interest from travellers looking for meaningful safari experiences closer to home.

According to Vincent Bouwer, Chief Commercial Officer at Lion Roars Hotels & Lodges, travellers are becoming more intentional about how and where they spend their holiday budgets.

“People are still travelling, but they’re making more considered choices,” says Bouwer. “The Eastern Cape offers space, exceptional wildlife encounters and immersive experiences that make even a short break feel worthwhile. Guests also become part of a broader conservation story, which adds greater meaning to their stay.”

Both Hlosi and Bukela offer all-inclusive safari experiences that include accommodation, meals, beverages and twice-daily game drives. Guests can spend their days tracking wildlife with experienced guides before retreating to private suites, enjoying spa treatments or simply soaking up the tranquillity of the bushveld.

For travellers from Johannesburg, reaching Amakhala is relatively straightforward. A two-hour flight to Gqeberha, followed by a scenic 40-minute drive, places visitors in the heart of a Big Five reserve without the need for extensive travel planning. The reserve is also easily accessible from other major South African cities.

Those wanting to extend their holiday can continue along the Garden Route, pairing a safari stay with time on the coast. Lion Roars’ properties, including Plett Quarter Hotel and The Robberg Beach Lodge, offer an easy transition from wildlife viewing to seaside relaxation.

With winter travel specials available across selected properties, the Eastern Cape is positioning itself as an attractive option for travellers seeking value, accessibility and authentic experiences during the June holiday season.

As travel habits evolve, destinations that combine convenience, nature and meaningful connections are increasingly standing out and the Eastern Cape’s unique blend of safari and coastal adventure continues to make a strong case for a winter escape.

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