Eastern Cape Casinos
If you are looking for Eastern Cape casinos to play for real money, finding a really safe and reliable casino can be hard. This is true for both land based and Internet parlours. However, no need to worry, as we have already done the research for you. Choose a safe, reliable, and fun Eastern Cape casino from the list below, take advantage of bonuses, and win real money! For more information, look through online casino reviews.
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Eastern Cape online casinos
History of Gambling in Eastern Cape
Eastern Cape gambling is a complicated topic, so to make all the rules comprehensive, knowledge of some history is necessary. All gambling was heavily restricted back in 1673, and this situation did not change until 1965 when the government allowed betting on horse racing only. However, eventually the locals started operating illegal parlours, especially those based in poor areas where criminal activity bloomed.
As a result, after in 1994 new democratic government arrived, they reorganized the whole gambling market and allowed all forms of gambling in established brick and mortar casinos. Moreover, sports betting, horse racing betting, and lotteries were also allowed. Every region of the country developed its own governmental body that regulated the niche - in Eastern Cape, it is Eastern Cape Gambling Board. As a result, illegal parlours started to disappear, replaced by legal and safe facilities.
However, after web betting became popular with the development of the Internet technologies, the Eastern Cape Gambling Board decided that all online gambling but betting on sports is prohibited, due to breach in regulations, and lack of legal control.
Current Situation
Today, one can freely gamble in Eastern Cape, there are numerous parlours in bigger cities, and other facilities like racing tracks. All offline gambling activities are regulated and are allowed. The only legal form of online gambling is making bets on sports with the locally licensed bookmakers.
On the other hand, all online casino websites are forbidden. If you are looking for a locally licensed online casino in South Africa, there is no such thing. Neither offering Internet casino services, nor playing at online casinos is not allowed. Moreover, the majority of online parlours operated from abroad are blocked, as well. So, one can reach out to the offshore gaming platforms at their own risk, and look for a platform that is not blocked.
Considering the legal situation, most gamblers may want to learn more about land based gambling houses.
Popular Cities in Eastern Cape for Gambling
Since Eastern Cape is so gambling-friendly, it makes sense to find out what cities are the most popular among the local residents, and also which cities may be the best choice for travelling gamblers. As we already know, land based gambling houses, sports betting, horse racing, and lotteries are allowed everywhere in Eastern Cape. Therefore, one can either choose the most attractive city to visit a casino or two, or to check out what city hosts their favourite gambling activity facilities, and go there.
In Eastern Cape, it makes sense to visit at least those four biggest cities - Bhisho, Port Elizabeth, Graaff-Reinet, and East London.
Bhisho
Bhisho serves as the capital of Eastern Cape province in South Africa. Many province governmental bodies are located in this town. This is a historical place that had seen many important events, including the notorious Bhisho Massacre on September 7, 1992. The Bhisho Massacre was one of the sad but important events that lead the whole country to democratic government two years later. This town was selected as a province capital mainly due to its infrastructure. There are racing facilities nearby.
Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth, also known as Nelson mandela Bay, is one of the biggest, the most populated, the most popular, and the most beautiful cities. In other words, Port Elizabeth is an unstated capital of the province. It is famous for its views, and also for good weather, globally. Its beaches are some of the best and cleanest in the world, despite the fact that this is a major seaport. It is a holiday destination for both locals and international tourists. There are three parlours at Port Elizabeth.
Graaff-Reinet
Graaff-Reinet is one of the four oldest towns in the whole country, and today, it has more monuments than any other town or city in South Africa. In the end of the 18th century, Graaff-Reinet was the center of a republic that failed to exist long enough, but the town itself became an important place as a result. It is famous for its agriculture, and also for sheep and ostrich farming.
East London
East London is one of the biggest cities in the province. It hosts the only river port in the whole country that served as a supply port in the middle of the 19th century. The town has rich history, although not the happiest one. There are two casinos in the town.
Land-based Casinos in State
There are around a dozen of brick and mortar gaming houses and other betting facilities in the area. To enjoy the best atmosphere, and the most entertaining events, check out the following venues:
- Bingo Royale East London - this facility holds mostly bingo machines and also has jackpot levels system
- The Boardwalk Casino - located in Port Elizabeth, this casino offers over 900 gaming machines, 24 tables games, and the visitors will also be able to enjoy the hotel and restaurants
- Fairview Racecourse - this is one of the oldest racecourses, opened back in the middle of the 19th century. The minimum bet is $1, so everyone can try their luck.
