Mthatha, located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, is a fantastic place to explore. There are plenty of things to do in Mthatha to keep you entertained. Look forward to historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and more. Are you looking for a weekend getaway or a more extended holiday? This city has something for everyone!
Planning a Trip to Mthatha? Check out the pages below:
ALSO READ: The 20 Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth
Top 5 Things to Do in Mthatha
1. Nelson Mandela Museum
Are you looking for a fun, educational experience? Then you need to visit the Nelson Mandela Museum! This venue is in the Bhunga Building. You can learn about one of the world’s most inspirational figures: Nelson Mandela.
Expect various exhibits focusing on Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy. Explore his education and his time as a lawyer, prisoner, and president. Exhibitions also point to Mandela’s impact on South African culture and history. The Bhunga Building is also home to a library filled with books written by or about Nelson Mandela. Also, watch videos and documentaries that explore different aspects of his life. Visitors can even view rare photographs taken during critical moments in Mandela’s history!
Opening times: Weekly from 09h00 to 16h00 and Saturday from 09h00 to 13h00.
Address: Corner of Nelson Mandela Drive & Owen Street, Bhunga Building, Mthatha
Contact: 047 501 9500
2. Kwelera National Garden
Next on our guide to things to do in Mthatha is the first national botanical garden in the Eastern Cape! Get ready to explore the Kwelera National Botanical Garden, under a 3-hour drive from Mthatha. This national garden sits between two bodies of water and along river banks. Kwelera has scenic landscapes and a historical heritage. This garden is a must-see destination!
From nature walks to bird watching, there is something for everyone! Do you want to take things up a notch? There are kayaking tours where you can spot over 100 species of birds along the way! There are also mountain biking trails and picnic spots.
Look forward to relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery.
Opening times: Weekly from 07h30 to 16h30 and Saturday from 09h00 to 17h00.
Address: Plot FME, 00736, Kwelera Road, East London
3. Hole-in-the-Wall
Coffee Bay, under a 2-hour drive from Mthatha, is home to a remarkable natural rock formation. Known as the Hole-in-the-Wall, this cliff is an awe-inspiring wonder carved by the waves. Are you looking for a peaceful day spent swimming or a thrilling hike? There is something for everyone at this beautiful spot.
The local Xhosa people have an interesting legend about how nature formed this hole. According to their story, two giants once fought over land here. One of them hurled his spear through the rock wall and created what we now know as “izi Khaleni,” or “place of thunder.” Although it remains to be seen whether this is true, it adds extra intrigue to this place! The waters around the Hole-in-the-Wall are perfect for swimming, with plenty of space to explore. You can also rent snorkelling equipment from local vendors. Are you looking for something more adventurous? Several hiking trails in the area will take you close to the Hole-in-the-Wall.
Opening times: 24 hours
Location: Off the coast of Coffee Bay
Also Read: Explore Johannesburg Zoo
4. Mayfair Casino
Are you in the mood for an unforgettable experience while hunting for things to do in Mthatha? Check out Mayfair Casino, the world-class crown jewel of Mthatha. The high-quality entertainment and luxury here are enhanced by excellent customer service. Find gaming, food and beverage, top-class restaurants, and events in one complex. Let Mayfair Casino entertain you!
Discover various gaming options that will please even the most discerning player. Play at over 600 slot machines and more than 60 live tables. Also, explore one of the largest poker rooms in South Africa! Sit at one of 14 tables offering Texas Hold’em cash games plus daily tournaments with prizes up for grabs.
Opening times: Monday to Thursday from 10h00 to 22h00, Friday to Saturday from 10h00 to 23h00, and Sunday from 10h00 to 20h00.
Address: 33 Errol Spring Avenue, Mthatha
Contact: 047 150 0111
5. So What Lounge
Are you looking for the best nightlife experience in Mthatha? So What Lounge is the place to be! This is your one-stop shop for parties, events, and workshop bookings. You can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and incredible drinks. So What Lounge is the ideal place to unwind and have a good time.
There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained when visiting the So What Lounge. For starters, you can use the pool tables for friendly competition with your pals. The private lounge areas are perfect for those who want to sit back and relax. Visiting old friends or going on a romantic date with your significant other? It doesn’t matter. These private lounges provide the ideal atmosphere.
Opening times: 24 hours
Address: 10 Timber Street, Mthatha
Contact: 073 504 8834
More Things to Do in Mthatha and the Surrounding Areas
6. Hluleka Nature Reserve
Have you ever wanted to explore a place with untouched nature and stunning wildlife? Well, this guide to things to do in Mthatha includes the Hluleka Nature Reserve. This tranquil reserve captures an array of ecosystems. Explore rocky seashores, golden beaches, lagoons, and lush forests!
Hluleka Nature Reserve includes two magnificent forest reserves. The Congwane Mtombo and Ndabeni Hluleka Forest Reserves These forests create rolling landscapes along the Wild Coast coastline. Are you looking for something a little more laid-back, away from all the hustle and bustle of city life? Then this is definitely the place for you.
Location: Hluleka
Contact: 043 492 0881
7. Clearwater Trails
Are you a fan of mountain biking? If so, you’ll love the experience of Clearwater Trails, established in 2003. This trail network became a favourite for local and visiting mountain bikers. Expect stunning views of the Indian Ocean and Umtamvuna River Gorge. This trail is one of the first purpose-built trails in the area. So it is easy to see why Clearwater Trails remains a popular destination for adventures. In 2020, it re-joined Beaver Creek Coffee Estate as its start/finish point.
Opening times: Daily from 07h00 to 16h00
Price: Mountain biking costs R40 per adult and R20 per child under 12 years. For walkers and runners, it’s R20 per adult and R10 per child under 12 years.
Address: Beaver Creek Coffee Estate, Izingolweni Road, Port Edward
Contact: 083 549 6710
8. Mthatha Plaza
Mthatha Plaza is the perfect place to shop for all your needs while exploring things to do in Mthatha! Discover stores like Game and Checkers and smaller shops like Clicks and Wimpy. You’ll find everything you need in one convenient location. So whether you’re looking for some new clothes or want to grab a bite to eat, Mthatha Plaza has it all!
Opening times: Monday to Saturday from 08h00 to 19h00 and Sunday from 09h00 to 17h00
Address: 35 Nelson Mandela Drive, Norwood, Mthatha
Contact: 047 531 2878
9. Crocworld
Are you looking for an exciting and informative experience? Then check out Crocworld, more than 5 hours from Mthatha. This garden offers stunning sea views and many fun things to do. Indulge in crocodile feeding sessions, bird displays, snake tunnels, and children’s playgrounds. There is something for everyone at Crocworld!
In the reptile section, you can witness four different species of crocodilians as well as snakes from every continent (except Antarctica!). Learn more about these animals or marvel at their beauty from afar. Crocworld offers even more! The bird section is home to soaring eagles and colourful parrots. There is an even greater variety of birds at Crocworld. Learn more about these birds with interactive sessions with trained handlers.
Opening times: Daily from 09h00 to 16h30
Price: R100 per adult, R70 per child between 4 and 12 years, R75 per pensioner, and R80 per person for tour groups.
Address: Old Main Road, Scottburgh
10. Nduli Nature Reserve
Have you ever wanted to explore the African wilderness while checking out things to do in Mthatha? If so, consider visiting the Nduli Nature Reserve. Nduli is home to beautiful landscapes and wildlife in a valley outside of Mthatha. There is something for everyone at Nduli Nature Reserve, from zebras to impalas!
Address: Norwood, Mthatha
Contact: 087 286 6531
11. Magwa Falls
Have you ever dreamed of standing in the presence of a magnificent natural wonder? If so, then you must visit Magwa Falls. This mesmerising waterfall stands 142 metres tall and sits amid a vast tea plantation. Not only is it one of the few waterfalls on the Wild Coast that is accessible, but it also has its own fascinating story.
Magwa Falls has a fascinating history. Sudden seismic movements happened in the earth’s crust in the distant past!
There are also stunning surroundings. The well-known tea plantations are beautiful, with rolling hills and lush greenery. There are plenty of spots where you can enjoy a picnic or take some time to admire the view. In addition, you don’t have to pay to visit Magwa Falls!
Location: Close to the Sangoma Trail
12. Dwesa-Cwebe Wildlife Reserve & Marine Sanctuary
This list of things to do in Mthatha continues with a breathtaking experience! Discover two charming nature reserves at Dwesa-Cwebe Wildlife Reserve and Marine Sanctuary. This wildlife reserve is bounded on one side by the Indian Ocean and on the other by rolling hills. With an extra 19,293 hectares of Marine Protected Area added to this park, it’s now almost twice as large!
The Dwesa-Cwebe Nature Reserve is home to various plants and animals found nowhere else in South Africa. This includes buffalo, eland, blesbok, blue wildebeest, warthog, and crocodiles. The reserve also boasts a range of unique habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, and wetland areas. For bird watchers, there are over 290 species of birds to spot!
Location: A 3-hour drive from Coffee Bay
Contact: 043 492 0881
13. Mdumbi Beach
Are you looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than Mdumbi Beach, a secluded beach along the gorgeous Wild Coast. This beach offers excellent surf and is also the home of the Pondo people, who are happy to share their culture.
It’s a small beach tucked away from mainstream tourism. Something so peaceful and calming about it makes it perfect for rest and relaxation. The ocean views are spectacular. Nothing like lounging in the sun or watching beautiful sunsets over the horizon.
Location: Mankozi, Eastern Cape
14. Poenskop Beach
Our hunt for things to do in Mthatha takes us beyond the city to Port St. Johns. Poenskop Beach is one of the most isolated spots in the country. It’s a place where you can unplug and enjoy nature for what it is. As you make your way to Poenskop, you’ll pass a few huts, and that’s about it. Out here, there’s nothing except “Africa!” So if you want an escape from modern life, this is the perfect spot.
The beach itself is one of many attractions here. There are also plenty of nature trails in the area that are worth exploring. Take a stroll through nature and soak up some of South Africa’s unique wildlife. You might spot some exotic bird species or dolphins playing in the surf!
Location: Off the coast of Bholani
15. Tortoni Guest Farm
Are you looking for a place to get away from it all and relax? Look no further than the peaceful and tranquil Tortoni Guest Farm. This guest farm is in the Southern Drakensberg between Maclear and Ugie. Tortoni is a hidden oasis nestled among the rolling hills of Scotland-like terrain.
Admire the beautiful scenery, with over 1000 kilometres of pristine waterways. There are many rainbow trout here, so bring your fishing rod! Also see crowned cranes, secretary birds, and even rufus-bellied herons.
Opening times: Daylight hours
Address: Tortoni Farm, R56, Maclear
Contact: 084 200 2548 / 083 386 0059
16. Waterfall Bluff
A visit to Waterfall Bluff is a must for anyone exploring the top things to do in Mthatha. This exotic spot boasts coastal cliffs and waterfalls leading to the Indian Ocean. Are you up for an exciting challenge? Taking the 28km return trip from the lodge is something you should consider!
The starting point for anyone wanting to reach Waterfall Bluff is Mbotyi. Then, it takes about 3.5 km to get to Drewe’s Camp on a sandy beach. Enjoy the beautiful estuary at the mouth of the Mkhosi River along the way. Before continuing your journey past two other pristine streams, you can take a break. After another 4 kilometres or so, you will reach Cathedral Rock. That’s where you can marvel at a waterfall cascading down into the Indian Ocean!
Opening times: Daylight hours
Location: An hour’s drive from Rhole
Contact: 083 268 5611
17. Mkambati Nature Reserve
Are you looking for a wild getaway with breathtaking views and plenty of adventure? Then, visit Mkambati Nature Reserve, just a 5-hour drive from Mthatha! This vast reserve offers you an unforgettable experience. First, explore panoramic grasslands and lush forests. Then, get ready to explore various natural wonders!
Mkambati Nature Reserve is home to incredible wildlife. Experts have reintroduced many animals here for safety. Rugged rock and sandy beaches stretch along the dazzling coastline. Hikers and nature lovers will enjoy this place. For bird watchers, see hornbills, woodhoopoes, black oystercatchers, and more. There are also many chances to spot bushbuck, oribi, and grey duiker.
Location: Pondoland
18. Isinuka Mud Caves and Sulphur Pools
Unique experiences are among the things to do in Mthatha and the surrounding areas! Visit the Isinuka Mud Caves and Sulphur Pools, a traditional healing place for the Pondo. Smother yourself in the mud and discover its healing properties!
Many cultures have used mud therapy as a traditional healing method. It helps encourage blood flow and can even relieve muscle tension and aches. The sulphur springs are said to be healing because they contain magnesium and calcium. These balance hormones, improve metabolism, and stimulate sleep. In addition, the warm water relaxes muscles and relieves joint pain.
Location: Next to Isinuka village
19. Umtamvuna Nature Reserve
Under a 5-hour drive from Mthatha is the picturesque Umtamvuna Nature Reserve. This 3247-hectare reserve in KZN is a paradise of spectacular scenery. It includes an exciting stretch of riverine forest and steep rocky cliffs. It’s no wonder why this region is so popular with nature lovers. Discover sights ranging from its diverse wildlife to its stunning array of flowers. There’s something for everyone to explore!
Opening times: Daylight hours
Location: Rennies Beach, Port Edward, South Coast, KwaZulu Natal
Contact: 039 313 2383
20. Seaglen Dunes Resort
Now for the final item on our list of things to do in Mthatha! Are you looking for a place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle? Stay at Seaglen Dunes Resort in the quaint village of Munster on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal. This stunning resort is ideal for anyone looking for a peaceful escape with plenty to do.
Seaglen Dunes Resort offers guests various activities and amenities to enjoy. The resort sits on a hilltop with surrounding gardens and natural vegetation. Guests can walk right onto the beach from their front door. There are also many cultural sites nearby. Check out Wildcoast Sun Casino, Oribi Gorge, Margate, and Mzamba Village.
Opening times: The public beach at the resort is open from Monday to Friday from 07h30 to 18h00 and Saturday from 07h30 to 13h00.
Address: 1 Stoppel Place, Glenmore, Munster, KwaZulu-Natal
Contact: 039 319 2503
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Mthatha?
Discover the town connected with one of South Africa’s most inspiring figures, Mthatha! Many know this special place as “Madiba country” in homage to Nelson Mandela. Explore history at an incredible museum and gain insight into Madiba’s life story.
What kind of place is Mthatha?
Umtata, or Mthatha as it’s now known, is an exciting and vibrant place full of colour! This city, which started in 1879 during Apartheid as the Transkei’s capital, is now part of the Eastern Cape. Mthatha offers plenty to explore. Come discover its hidden gems yourself!
Does Mthatha have a mall?
Mthatha is home to the largest mall in the Eastern Cape province! Bursting with 82 000m² of shops, over 150 stores, and two levels of steel and concrete columns, it’s a retail paradise. So get ready for some serious shopping action!
So, this wraps up our list of things to do in Mthatha! Are you ready to explore them all? Which one will you go for first?
Picture: Instagram / @missy.balch
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