The countdown has begun for one of the Eastern Cape’s most anticipated tourism events of the year. The finalists for the Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 2025 have officially been announced, showcasing the very best the province has to offer – from tranquil farm stays and luxury lodges to adrenaline-fueled adventures and cultural heritage gems.
Finalists come from all corners of the province, including Gqeberha, East London, Matatiele, Kei Mouth, Port Alfred, Kommadagga, Graaff-Reinet, Humansdorp, St Francis Bay, and Storms River, highlighting the diversity and richness of the Eastern Cape’s tourism offering.
Fifteen categories are represented this year. Each nominee now faces a detailed judging process, including comprehensive online interviews and a thorough evaluation of their Portfolio of Evidence by a panel of industry experts and independent professionals.
Winners will be announced at a prestigious gala dinner to be held on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay.
Finalists: Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 2025
Best Backpacker & Self-Catering Stay
- Arch Cabins Self Catering
- Resthaven Guest House
- Tube n Axe Backpackers / Lodge
Best Guest House / B&B
- Dune Ridge Country House
- Hacklewood Hill Country House
- The Sands @ St Francis Bay
Best Hotel / Resort
- Courtyard Hotel Gqeberha
- Misty Mountain Reserve
- Royal St Andrews Hotel
Best Lodge Stay
- Crawfords Beach Lodge
- Kuzuko Lodge
- Tsitsikamma Lodge & Spa
Digital Tourism Influence of the Year
- Firefly the Travel Guy
- Sunshine Simplicities
- The Real Travel Guy
Future Leaders in Tourism
- Lee-Marque Jansen, Streamline Tourism Marketing and Events
- Onalo Lupindo, Umzinyathi Group
- Zibonele Mdletshe, Untouched Adventures
Event & Conference Organiser of the Year
- Boast Events
- Elske van Heerden
- Exploring with Makhoza
Premier Conference & Events Venue
- Boardwalk International Convention Centre
- Olivewood Wildlife & Golf Estate
- The East London International Convention Centre
Exceptional Safari & Game Park Experience
- Kouga Rhino Sanctuary
- Pumba Private Game Reserve
Iconic Cultural & Heritage Experience
- Hand in Hand Visual Art Studios
- Tshaka Tours and Adventures
- Tsitsikamma Indigenous Tours
Outstanding Culinary Experience & Restaurants
- Awehness Travel
- Big Time Taverna
- Ginger the Restaurant
Sustainable Tourism Award
- Raggy Charters
- SANCCOB NPO
- Storms River Adventures
Tour Operator of the Year
- Awehness Travel
- Lelo N Travels
- Mawethu Platyi
Ultimate Adventure Attraction
- Blackwater Tubing Tsitsikamma
- Face Adrenalin – Bloukrans Bungy
- Wild Coast Horse Trails
Unique Agri-Tourism Experience
- Glen Avon Farm
- Karoo Ranching
- Pabala Private Nature Reserve
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