Mthatha, affectionately known as Mthatha Central, is the main town of the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality in Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is the seat of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government. The second major urban settlement in the OR Tambo District Municipality, Mthatha is one of the economic centres of the Eastern Cape province. The town has a population of 133,935 people according to the 2011 census.
Mthatha is located some 97 kilometres (60 mi) north-east of Port Elizabeth and about 150 kilometres (93 mi) south-west of East London. The N2 national route passes east-west through the town, connecting it with these major cities, as well as Cape Town to the west and Durban to the east.
As the economic hub of the OR Tambo district, Mthatha has a number of kid friendly attractions and activities. The Nelson Mandela Museum is a must-see, as it chronicles the struggle against apartheid and the life of South Africa’s beloved Nelson Mandela. Mthatha also has a number of parks perfect for a picnic or a game of fetch with the family dog, including Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden and Nelson Mandela Capture Site. For those looking for more adventure, Qunu Falls offer hiking and camping opportunities, while the Mthatha Dam is perfect for a day of fishing or boating. No matter what your interests, Mthatha has something to offer the whole family.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Mthatha, South Africa
1. Visit the Nelson Mandela Museum: The Nelson Mandela Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of South Africa’s iconic leader. The museum is located in Mthatha, Mandela’s birthplace, and features exhibits on his early life, his years as a political prisoner, and his Presidency.
2. Take a walking tour of Mthatha: Mthatha is a city with a long and rich history. A walking tour is a great way to learn about the city’s past and see some of its most important landmarks.
3. Visit the Mandela House: The Mandela House is the former home of Nelson Mandela in Soweto. Today, the house is a museum that tells the story of Mandela’s life and his role in the struggle for democracy in South Africa.
4. Go on a safari: South Africa is home to some of the world’s most iconic wildlife. A safari is a great way to see these animals in their natural habitat.
5. Visit Robben Island: Robben Island is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Today, the island is a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Take a tour of the Apartheid Museum: The Apartheid Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about South Africa’s brutal system of racial segregation.
7.Explore the Cradle of Humankind: The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important paleontological sites in the world.
8. Visit the Voortrekker Monument: The Voortrekker Monument is a tribute to the Afrikaner settlers who trekked into the interior of South Africa in the 19th century.
9. Visit the Soweto Township: Soweto is a large township located outside of Johannesburg. A visit to Soweto is a great way to learn about the culture and history of the township.
10. Go on a wine tour: South Africa is home to some of the world’s best wines. A wine tour is a great way to learn about the country’s wine industry and taste some of its finest wines.