destination guide
Compiled by Tshepi Matloga, Pic © SA Tourism
GO TO
n o d n o l ast e With the family
Known to locals as Buffalo City, East London is the sixth biggest city in the country and is home to the only river harbour in South Africa. In this edition we look at some educational, informative and fun excursions for the family to enjoy here.
1
East London Museum
Visit the East London Natural History museum and marvel at one of nature’s most remarkable fish – the coelacanth. This prehistoric fish lived in the Indian Ocean for 400 million years. Thought to be extinct, a living coelacanth was discovered in South Africa in 1938. The museum is also home to the only dodo eggs in existence. A visit to the museum is entertaining and educational. For more information contact +27 43 743 0686.
2
East London Aquarium
This is the oldest public aquarium in the country and while it is quite small, it still houses a variety of unique displays. It is home to stars such as Guido and Molly, two male penguins who are raising a chick together. Look out for the whale watching deck, which offers uninterrupted hours of whale watching free of charge. Contact Slain Tinley on +27 43 705 2636 or visit www.elaquarium.co.za for more.
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www.aboutime.co.za
3
Khayalabantu Cultural Village
Explore the sacred rituals and the daily way of life of the local Xhosa people with mama Tofu and her daughter Zinzi as your tour guides. You’ll learn about the life of a sangoma (traditional healer), taste traditional beer at the chief ’s burial site and witness a display of stick fighting. For more information, call +27 43 851 1011 or go to www.khayalabantu.co.za.
4
Steve Biko Garden of Remembrance
Every part of South Africa has a history to tell about its part in the fight against Apartheid, and so does East London. Formerly known as the Gingseng Garden Cemetery, the Steve Biko Garden of Remembrance is now a national monument. It is also a resting place for the famous Black consciousness movement leader who was killed in police custody during Apartheid, as well as for the victims of the Bisho Massacre. Contact +27 43 642 1177 for more.