FABULOUS REASONS TO INCLUDE BUFFALO CITY ON YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY OR TRAVEL ITINERARY

Transcription

1 FABULOUS REASONS TO INCLUDE BUFFALO CITY ON YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY OR TRAVEL ITINERARY

2 50 FABULOUS REASON TO LOVE BUFFALO CITY Whether you re travelling for business or pleasure, and staying for the weekend or a fortnight, balmy Buffalo City is rolling out the welcome mat and pulling out all the stops to make your feel right at home. Come experience the warmth of our welcoming Eastern Cape hospitality, the unique wealth of our spectacular natural landscapes and the rich diversity of our entertainment amenities. With all the creature comforts of a modern metropole, coupled with uncrowded, sun-kissed beaches and a wide range of in- and outdoor leisure attractions, Buffalo City is a perfect getaway destination for the whole family.

3 Discover all we have to offer as we unveil 50 FABULOUS REASONS to include Buffalo City on your next holiday or travel itinerary. This booklet not only showcases the vast diversity of our city s many tourism attractions, it also locates Buffalo City as the perfect base from with to launch a multitude of exciting excursions, both inland and along our spectacular coast. Whatever constitues your perfect day out, you ll be spoilt for choice in the city that offers you the best of all words. What are you waiting for? Start exploring our 50 Fabulous Reasons!

4 SOME FACTS The Buffalo City Municipality was established in 2000 through the amalgamation of the previous coastal and inland transitional authorities. It consists of a number of settlements including the urban core of East London and its extended suburbs, the second largest township in South Africa (Mdantsane), the historically significant King William s Town as well as the provincial administrative capital of Bhisho. A large number of rural villages also fall within its area of jurisdiction. Buffalo City covers an area of about 2,700 square kilometres and is the sixth largest local authority in South Africa measured by population. The region has one of South Africa s most diverse populations, closely reflecting the country s demographics. While the home language of the majority of residents is isixhosa, there are

5 substantial minorities who speak either English or Afrikaans. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Buffalo City enjoys a moderate subtropical climate that favours an active outdoor lifestyle, allowing residents and visitors to engage in a wide variety of recreational pursuits throughout the year. Buffalo City has 68km of pristine coastline that includes 10 tidal estuaries, 14 excellent beaches, a number of sites of great anthropological interest as well as endless opportunities for leisure and relaxation. The developmental aspirations and successes of Buffalo City were acknowledged by national government when it was classified as a metropolitan municipality in 2012.

6 01 DINE IN THE COMPANY OF DOLPHINS From fine dining to quaint beach cafes and robust burger joints, Buffalo City offers the most picturesque lunch and dinner spots on the Sunshine Coast. Excellent food enjoyed against spectacular views. Grazia, Esplanade The Tuscan Room, Esplanade Salmon Restaurant, Premier Hotel Footprints, Latimer s Landing The Barefoot Café, Chintsa East

7 02 SIP A SUMPTUOUS COCKTAIL WITH THE WAVES CRASHING AT YOUR BACK Stylish beach and river front hotels and chic cocktail lounges offer a splash of glamour and glitz as you indulge in your favourite cosmopolitan pursuits. Café Neo, Esplanade The Highlander, Beacon Bay Bora Bora Lounge Bar, Esplanade Y-Knot Pub and Restaurant, Regent

8 03 ENJOY WORLD-CLASS CONFERENCING FACILITIES Buffalo City is open for business! Our many excellent conferencing venues, including the industry acclaimed East London International Conference Centre (ICC) and The Hemingways offer every executive convenience in stylish surroundings, making business a pleasure. EL International Conference Centre The Hemingways Steve Biko Centre, Ginsberg Ikamva Lodge, King William s Town

9 04 PAMPER YOURSELF! Buffalo City s wide range of general and specialist massage, beauty and wellness boutiques and spas ensure a rejuvenating experience, whether you re visiting for business, sport or leisure. Prana Lodge La Royale Spa Zamz Beauty Emerald Spa

10 05 BE INSPIRED BY OUR LIBERATION ICONS Steve Biko is recognised as one of South Africa s greatest liberation icons, alongside fellow Eastern Cape leaders Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and Raymond Mhlaba. His remarkable legacy lives on in the Steve Biko Garden of Remembrance and the Steve Biko Centre, in Ginsberg, King William s Town. Be sure to also visit the Bhisho massacre and Egerton memorials, The Wall of Fame in Dimbaza and the Mxenge family graves. Steve Biko House, Tyamzashe Street, Ginsberg Griffiths and Victoria Mxenge Graves, Rayi village

11 06 SPEND A DAY AT THE RACES The East London Racing Circuit (previously the Prince George circuit) hosted the South African Grand Prix on three separate occasions and still attracts large crowds on race days. Attend any of our regular meets to experience the thrill of blaring engines, death-defying speeds and more than a few cut-throat motoring manoeuvres! EL Grand Prix Circuit /4

12 07 MARVEL AT OUR NATURAL HISTORY ARTEFACTS The East London Museum curates three of the international science community s most prized artefacts: the prehistoric coelacanth, a year old humanoid skull and the world s oldest human trace fossil footprints, dating back an incredible years. East London Museum

13 08 DISCOVER OUR GOLDEN BEACHES Whatever you beach fantasy - rock or surf angling, snorkelling, diving, surfing, beachcombing or just soaking up some bronzing rays - Buffalo City has the perfect seaside spot for you and your family. From Hamburg to the beautiful coastal villages dotted along the Sunshine Coast, our city boasts a spectacular stretch of coastline that lends itself to a diverse range of marine activities and leisure pursuits. Kidds Beach Winterstrand Orient Beach Eastern Beach Nahoon Bonza Bay Gonubie Chintsa Yellow Sands Queensberry Glen Eden

14 09 VISIT SOUTH AFRICA S OLDEST AQUARIUM The very first such facility built in South Africa, the East London Aquarium continues to delight with its unique and eclectic collections and fish tank displays, seal shows and penguin colony. Don t forget to take a stroll out over the Indian Ocean on our whale watching deck. East London Aquarium, Esplanade Open daily from 9h00 to 17h00. Fish feeding at 10h30 Seal feeding daily at 11h30 and 15h30 Penguin feeding immediately after seal feeding

15 10 ENJOY A DELIGHTFUL DAY TRIP Buffalo City is the perfect springboard from which to launch an eclectic array of exciting day trips. Explore the magical mountain village of Hogsback, lose yourself in the forest-infused charms of Stutterheim, steam back in time at Thomas River Historical Village or marvel at the artistry that is Hamburg. Contact BC Tourism s four offices for detailed information East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

16 11 HUG A HIPPO! Arguably the most famous hippo in the world, Huberta, enjoys pride of place at the Amathole Museum in King William s Town. Learn all about her amazing journey to Buffalo City, and don t forget to check out this excellent museum s other impressive claim to fame: the second largest mammal collection in South Africa. Amathole Museum Open week days from 8h00 to 16h00 Saturdays from 9h00 to 13h00

17 12 MEET SOME AMAZING ANIMALS The East London Zoo boasts over 300 animals, comprising 43 mammal, 14 reptile, 26 bird and nine primate species. Be awed by our large predators, including tigers, white and brown lions and a jaguar, and delight in our eclectic bird collection. The zoo is also home to the endangered African wild dog and the equally rare sungazer lizard, which has been put on the Red List of Threatened Species. Queen s Park Zoo Open daily from 9h00 to 17h00

18 13 TEE IT UP The spectacular East London Golf Course is a must-play for all lovers of the game, whatever your skill level. A luxurious feast for the senses, this unique championship course is routinely named one of South Africa s best, and is hugely popular with tour professionals. Be sure to also check out the King William s Town course, the West Bank links course and the underrated Alexander course in Greenfields. East London Golf Course Alexander Golf Course West Bank Golf Course King William s Town Golf Course Gonubie Golf Course

19 14 FEED YOUR ARTISTIC SIDE Just a short day trip from Buffalo City, the Grahamstown National Arts Festival is a must for art, music and drama lovers of all persuasions. Then supplement your festival experience by exploring Buffalo City s many excellent art and craft galleries, including the Ann Bryant Art Gallery. A national monument, this iconic institution boasts a collection dating back to the early 1900s. There are also excellent and vibrant art centres in Mdantsane and Gompo. Ann Bryant Art Gallery Gompo Art Centre Mdantsane Art Centre

20 15 TAKE A HIKE! Buffalo City is blessed with numerous excellent short, medium and longer range hikes for beginners and more experienced hikers alike. Get the blood flowing and the adrenaline pumping on the exciting Amathole, Strandloper and Shipwreck Trails, or take a meeker meander through the Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve or Kologha Indigenous Forest Nature Reserve. If you have the boots, we have the trails. Contact BC Tourism s four offices for detailed information East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

21 16 MARVEL AT EXQUISITE VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE Named after King William IV of England, King William s Town boasts many exquisite examples of Victorian architecture at its most impressive, including numerous churches, monuments and military buildings that reflect this area s unique British and German heritage. Amathole Museum Open week days from 8h00 to 16h00 Saturdays from 9h00 to 13h00

22 17 SEE A SHOW A wide range of theatres and live entertainment venues tempt some of South Africa s best performers and productions to our shores. Intimate and personable, the Guild Theatre is a well-loved urban landmark, while smaller, independent venues throughout the Metro cater for all genres and tastes. Guild Theatre The Hemingways Steve Biko Centre Alexander Playhouse Arts Theatre Miriam Makeba Centre

23 18 CATCH SOME RING- SIDE ACTION The cradle of both amateur and professional boxing in South Africa, Buffalo City is a proud supporter of home grown boxing talent, with many top-notch and title fights staged in the city throughout the year. Get the latest information about upcoming bouts from the East London branch of Boxing South Africa Phakamile Jacobs

24 19 PET A LION CUB The Lion Park is a favourite family attraction, offering visitors the unique opportunity of getting up close to a range of wild cats. In addition to lions, the park also features tigers and cheetah, with visitors able to pet younger cubs at selected times. The Lion Park Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8h00 to 17h00 Feeding times: 12h30 Seaview Farms, N6 Road Thornvalley

25 20 ENJOY A SUNSET CRUISE IN SOUTH AFRICA S ONLY RIVER PORT The Port of East London is a small but dynamic port with an exciting waterfront development named for one of our most famous residents, Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer. Harbour and opensea cruises are piloted daily, on demand, offering visitors a unique opportunity to frolic with the playful and inquisitive dolphin pods that frequent the harbour mouth. River cruises are also available on the Nahoon and Buffalo rivers. Footprints Restaurant Edgewater River Cruise Southern Cross Ballyhoo

26 21 FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GIANTS The historic Healdtown, just 140km from the city centre, is an important stop-over on any history or cultural tour of the province. Having educated the likes of Nelson Mandela, Govan Mbeki and Robert Sobukwe, this important heritage site has been newly renovated to restore it for future generations. For information about tours and excursions contact Fort Beaufort Tourism Office

27 22 INDULGE IN SOME KIDS PLAY A feast of fun and entertainment for children of all ages, Buffalo City is one of the most popular child-friendly destinations in the Eastern Cape. From go karts and laser games to steam engines, petting zoos, video arcades and all the fun to be had on our sun-drenched beaches, a visit to our city means the smaller members of your party will never be bored. Contact BC Tourism s four offices for detailed information East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

28 23 HIT THE SURF Buffalo City boasts some of the best surfing spots anywhere in the world, with a wide range of surf breaks to choose from. Our flagship surf spot at Nahoon is world renowned, but there s also excellent surfing to be had at Yellowsands, Queensbury Bay, Gonubie, Eastern Beach and Gonubie. Whether you re a newby or an old campaigner, we have a wave with your name on it. Border Surfriders Association, Gareth Sepp East London Surf Lifesaving Club, Nahoon Beach

29 24 ROLL THE DICE A fully-fledged casino and numerous V-Slot venues around the city bring glitz, glamour and the excitement of high-stakes gambling to Buffalo City. Play your favourite slot machines, spin the roulette wheel or try your luck at the blackjack table for an evening of Vegas-styled fun. Just remember: Winners know when to stop. Hemingways Casino Galaxy Bingo, King s Mall Bingo Royale

30 25 CAMP IT UP Buffalo City prides itself on the diversity of its accommodation offerings. Our hotels are on a par with some of the most elegant in the country, but if you re in the mood to rough it or get back to nature, you ve come to the right place. Dozens of camp sites with excellent facilities make our city a camper s paradise. There are also a number of pet-friendly sites for those travelling with animals. Get a detailed list of camping sites from BC Tourism East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

31 26 CATCH A CRICKET GAME Buffalo Park is an excellent cricket ground which has hosted numerous international matches. The smallest ground in South Africa, spectators have a uniquely intimate experience of the game and are able to interact closely with players on the pitch. A must-visit if you re a fan of the game! Buffalo Park Drive, East London

32 27 GET YOUR JAZZ GROOVE ON Buffalo City has a strong jazz culture, with numerous excellent jazz musicians having made this their musical base. The new Velvet Jazz Lounge at Latimer s Landing is already a firm audience favourite, with smaller venues throughout the city adding to the rich diversity of live performances. Velvet Jazz Lounge Imbizo Jazz Lounge

33 28 SURVEY SOME SAN ART Beautiful San art sites exist at numerous locations just a short drive outside the city. Most of these sites are on private farms, and viewings must be pre-arranged, but farm owners are very accommodating and knowledgeable about the cultural treasures on their doorstep. Get the latest info about San art sites and day trips from East London Museum Amathole Museum

34 29 SET YOUR SIGHTS The Eastern Cape is a sought-after hunting destination, both domestically and internationally, and Buffalo City offers the perfect springboard for short and medium term hunting forays and safaris. The city is served by numerous reputable private hunting operators, giving visiting hunters the best opportunity to bag their trophies, safely and responsibly. South African Hunters and Game Conservation Association SA Hunting Rifle Shooting Association Professional Hunters Association of South Africa

35 30 TANTALISE YOUR SENSES ON A TOWNSHIP TOUR Savour the sights and sounds of authentic township life, guided by experienced and informative guides. Sample traditional cuisine, shake it up in a local tavern and embrace the vibrant complexity of local culture. Imonti Tours Wamalets Township Tours

36 31 CAST YOUR LINE Buffalo City has countless great fishing spots, both inland and along the coast and is home to a large and enthusiastic fishing community. Cast your line for kob, spotted grunter, shad and bronze beam, all of which are plentiful. Fishing Eastern Cape, Nigel Louw

37 32 UNLEASH SOME ADRENALINE If the Eastern Cape is the adventure province, Buffalo City can lay claim to being the adrenaline city. From rock climbing and abseiling to paragliding, microlighting, dune surfing, zip lines and jet skiing, there s never a dull moment for the thrill seeker. Mild conditions make these exploits all-year affairs, so outdoor enthusiasts are always spoilt for choice. Explore our wide range of adventure activities East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

38 33 SADDLE UP Nothing rivals the pure exhilaration of a beach ride on horseback. Beach riding is an increasingly popular leisure pursuit in Buffalo City, with a number of private operators offering guided rides all along the coast. Wild Coast Horseback Adventures Chintsa Horses Inkwenkwezi Private Game Lodge Hillside Horses Mpongo Private Game Reserve

39 34 BASK IN BEAUTIFUL NATURAL SURROUNDINGS The Eastern Cape is unique in its biodiversity, boasting 7 of the 8 South African biomes. While a modern, cosmopolitan hub, Buffalo City is surrounded by a lush, diverse landscape that invites leisurely exploration. Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism St Marks Road, East London

40 35 EXERT SOME PEDDLE POWER Mountain biking has grown in leaps and bounds to become one of South Africa s most popular activities. Buffalo City has stayed ahead of the curve by developing numerous excellent tracks that invite and beguile beginners and experienced cyclists alike. Whether you want a short, pleasant peddle with the family or a muscle-straining test of endurance, we have a network of tracks in beautiful surroundings. Eastern Cape Mountain Biking info@ecmtb.co.za East Cape Mountain Bike East Cape Cycling

41 36 PET A PYTHON From a plump python to lightning-fast mambas and cobras, Apex Predators Park is a treasure trove of slithery fascination, with a large and growing collection of domestic and exotic species. Daily demonstrations allow visitors to get close to the action, with a number of other interesting reptile species ensuring a fun and entertaining visit for the entire family. Python Park

42 37 SKIM THE INDIAN OCEAN FROM ABOVE Excellent aviation facilities and a fully-fledged charter service bring the freedom of flight closer than ever before. Take a relaxing low-altitude flight up the coast, or dip down to see whales and dolphins frolicking in the surf below. AV8, East London Airport East London Helicopters Border Aviation Club

43 38 LEARN FROM A MASTER One of South Africa s most revered fine art photographers and a sought-after teacher, Marlene Neumann hosts numerous eagerly anticipated fine art photography courses during the year. Internationally acclaimed as an expert in her field, she will elevate your creative photography to new heights. Marlene Neumann Fine Art

44 39 GET YOUR BLOOD PUMPING Buffalo City hosts a number of world-class sporting events throughout the year, including the internationally acclaimed Ironman 70.3, the PGAendorsed Africa Open at the East London Golf Course and the iconic Surfers Marathon, Buffalo Regatta and Washie 100. We also have worldclass gyms and our park runs are among the most popular and scenic in the country. Get the latest sporting calendar at

45 40 SHOP TIL YOU DROP From big-name retailers to unique niche boutiques, our modern and easily accessible shopping centres and retail parks are a shopper s delight. Find fabulous deals and all the hottest, must-have brands at Hemingways and Mdantsane malls, Vincent Park Shopping Centre and Beacon Bay Retail Park. Hemingways Mall Mdantsane Mall Vincent Park Retail Park Metlife Mall, King William s Town Stone Towers, King William s Town

46 41 COME OUT TO PLAY Family fun is one of our top priorities, and you ll find a galaxy of entertainment at glitzy arcades and entertainment venues dotted throughout the city. Facilities include ten-pin bowling, laser games, X-Rider motion simulators, action, miniature and mashie golf, bumping cars, paintball, archery and supertubing. Electric Avenue, Hemingways Mall Xtreme Valley Python Park Mashie Golf

47 42 TAKE A GUIDED CANOE TRIP Same day or overnight trips are available on a wide range of rivers in and around the city, including the Nahoon, Gonubie, Kei, Keiskamma, Buffalo and Kowie rivers. Trips are conducted under the expert guidance of experienced team leaders and are suitable for people of all fitness levels. Give this exciting on-the-water experience a try. Full or partial catering ensure an enjoyable, hassle-free experience for the whole family. Canoe Trails Areena Riverside Resort Border Canoe Club

48 43 DISCOVER THE WILD COAST Buffalo City is the perfect springboard to discover the rugged majesty of the still-untamed Wild Coast. Board a ferry at Kei Mouth and disembark a few minutes later in the spectacular and untamed Wild Coast region, where you can hotel hop from Trennerys to The Haven, Hole in the Wall and Coffee Bay, or take a slow, spectacular meander through the Eastern Cape hinterland. Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism St Marks Road, East London

49 44 PACK A PICNIC The city of rivers boasts an abundance of great water s edge picnic sites for the perfect family braai, romantic al fresco lunch or star-lit sundowners. Let us guide you to the most perfect outdoor experience East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

50 45 DISCOVER AUTHENTIC XHOSA CULTURE In addition to our popular and very informative township tours, Buffalo City is the perfect place to discover authentic Xhosa culture. Our expert guides will introduce you to a traditional Xhosa homestead where you can meet, eat and visit with Xhosa families still well-steeped in authentic, traditional Xhosa culture. Ubukhasi Village, King William s Town Ngxingxolo Cultural Village Mlakalaka Cultural Village

51 46 TEASE YOUR TASTE BUDS Discover a world of tantalising tastes and flavours, right on your doorstep. From authentic African cuisine to Thai, Chinese, Indian and Portuguese, pamper your palate and tantalise your senses. Irana Indian Restaurant, Berea Shanghai Chinese Restaurant Marisol, Nahoon Emthombeni Restaurant, Inkwenkwezi The Scarlet Ibis, Belgravia Sanook, Beacon Bay

52 47 CATCH THE BIG 5 Get up close and personal with the Big 5 at any of a number of game reserves in close proximity to the city centre. Our reserves are well-stocked and expertly managed to ensure the best and most rewarding game viewing experiences. Contact Buffalo City Tourism for the latest information East London Airport LED Department, Fleet Street King William s Town Wall of Fame, Dimbaza

53 48 FROLIC IN STRAWBERRY FIELDS Grab a basket and wade into plump strawberry fields for a unique, all-you-can-pick experience. Or if your taste buds prefer something a little tartier, indulge in the juiciest pineapples and freshest pineapple juice. This is pineapple country, after all! Lavender Blue, East London

54 49 DISCOVER OUR ENIGMATIC OCEANS Charter a deep-sea fishing vessel, be amazed at the annual sardine run, go boating with majestic Southern Right and humpback whales or surf alongside dolphins and playful seals. The warm Indian ocean invites an array of spectacular oceanic experiences that will amaze and delight nature and sea lovers. For latest oceanic activities, contact Buffalo City Tourism East London Aquarium Find out about deep sea fishing by visiting

55 50 AND FINALLY... RELAX Our busy, bustling city can keep you busy and entertainment 24/7, but we also know just how to kick back, slow down and just relax. If you re looking to recharge and rejuvenate, you ve come to the right place.

56 RESTAURANTS, COFFEE SHOPS, PUBS & FAST FOOD There is a large selection of eating options at the various shopping malls around the city: HEMINGWAY S MALL VINCENT PARK SHOPPING CENTRE BEACON BAY RETAIL PARK IN EAST LONDON Alternatively, consider the following options: RESTAURANTS GRAZIA S FINE FOODS & WINES Esplanade, Beachfront, Quigney, EL. Tel: SMOKEY SWALLOWS Palm Square Buildings, Beacon Bay, EL Tel: SUNSET RESTAURANT Blue Lagoon Hotel, Beacon Bay, EL. Tel:

57 LE PETIT 54 Beach Rd, Nahoon, EL. Tel: /6 ZHONG HUA CHINESE RESTAURANT 48 Beach Road, Nahoon. Tel: SHANGHAI CHINESE RESTAURANT 28 Currie Street, Quigney. Tel: DR. JEKYLLS Patcyn Centre, Frere Road, Vincent, EL. Tel: LA VIDA Esplanade Road, Quigney, EL. Tel: MICHAELA S OF CHINTSA EAST Steenbras Drive, Chintsa East. Tel: COUNTRY BUMPKIN Chintsa East, Wild Coast Jikeleza. Tel: SANOOK Beacon Bay. Tel:

58 FOOTPRINT CAFÉ Latimers Landing, Harbour, EL. Tel: CAFE NEO 128 Moore Street, Quigney, EL, Tel: WIMPY Various outlets throughout Buffalo City GULU PRIVATE RESORT RESTAURANT, FARM 1015 R72 Coastal Route, Burnside, West Coast, Tel: FAMILY EATERIES GUIDOS Kennaway Hotel Complex, Esplanade, EL. Tel: , Devereux Avenue, EL. Tel: Batting Road, Beacon Bay, EL. Tel: Main Road, Gonubie, EL. Tel: BUCCANEERS Marina Glen, EL Esplanade. Tel:

59 BLUE DOLPHIN RESTAURANT Monte Bello Terrace, Kidd s Beach. Tel: HEAVENLY PANCAKE HOUSE Oceanway, Gonubie, EL. Tel: SILVER EAGLE SPUR Vincent Park. Tel: AMAZON SPUR Alexandra Road, KWT. Tel: FISH & FARRIER COUNTRY PUB & RESTAURANT Crossways, Wild Coast Jikeleza. Tel: LAVENDER BLUE East Coast Resort Road, EL. Tel:

60 Makinwa Media Find us at any of the Metro s four dedicated tourism offices East London Airport h00-18h00 LED Department in Fleet Street h00-16h30 27 Taylor Street, King William s Town h00-16h30 Wall of Fame, Main Road, Dimbaza h00-16h30 tourismunit@buffalocity.gov.za Edition 1