Port Elizabeth - South Africa

Port Elizabeth, also known as the friendly city, is located on the sea in the Eastern Cape Province. It is home to 3 beautiful beaches that all have blue flag status and are all great for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Port Elizabeth is one of South Africa’s key destinations for wildlife encounters, game drives and safaris as it is home to South Africa’s Big 7: Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, Lion, Rhino, Southern Right Whale and the Great White Shark.

TOP FIVE ATTRACTIONS WE RECOMMEND IN PORT ELIZABETH

The Donkin heritage trail

This 5-kilometre trail is named after the leader of the settlers, Sir Rufane Donkin, who founded Port Elizabeth along with 4000 British settlers who in 1820 arrived on the shores of Algoa Bay. Follow the footsteps of the settlers to visit 51 places of historical interest and learn about the fascinating history of the city. The trail includes the Donkin reserve, lighthouse and stone pyramid which he dedicated to his beloved wife Elizabeth, who he also named the city after, after she passed away.

The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment Complex

The boardwalk casino and entertainment complex brings an extra dimension of leisure activities and entertainment to the city. Here you can let your hair down and enjoy the games available for both the young and the young-at-heart. The complex contains a cinema, casino, games arcade and plenty of shopping so here fun can be had by the whole family.

Route 67

This is a journey made up of 67 public artworks that pay homage to Nelson Mandela and the 67 years he dedicated to fighting for South Africa’s freedom. Some of the most popular artworks include the 67 steps leading to South Africa’s second largest flag and the voting line which symbolises the country’s first democratic election. Route 67 tells a colourful story of how Nelson Mandela helped change South Africa.

Addo Elephant National Park

Whilst there are over 600 elephants roaming free in Addo Elephant National park, there is plenty more to see than just these beautiful creatures. This national park is the only park in the world to be home to all South Africa’s Big 7 after it recently acquired an offshore marine reserve. Addo Elephant National Park is the third largest park in South Africa and is split into many sections where a variety of different game can be seen. For the best experience, head out on a game drive and visit a watering hole where the elephants love to hang out. – Don’t forget your camera!

Cape Recife Nature Reserve

This 366-acre nature reserve offers some of the best beaches and views in Port Elizabeth. At the entrance there is a nine-kilometre scenic walk offering views of stunning unspoilt beaches and one of the best opportunities for bird spotting in the city. This spot is also home to the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) and is a great attraction to get up close to many endangered African penguins.