The 10 things to do in Port Elizabeth

Would you like to visit South Africa? So discover the essential things to do or see in Port Elizabeth!

Located in the province of Cap-Oriental, Port Elizabeth stretches for about 16 kilometres along the Algoa Bay. Known as the city of friendship, it marks the end of the Garden Road, a coastal road known for its pristine beaches and beautiful landscapes. Visit Port Elizabeth in South Africa will be an opportunity to enjoy the joys of the beach and to embrace breathtaking views, to discover a magnificent heritage, as well as beautiful natural reserves! So what to do in Port Elizabeth during your stay? What must you absolutely see or discover?

To help you experience a memorable journey, we have listed the 10 things you need and more to visit in Port Elizabeth!

1. Donkin Heritage Trail

What about Port Elizabeth? Discovering the historical heritage of the city should be the first activity to do in this charming port city. The Donkin Heritage Trail takes place in the historic centre. To visit Port Elizabeth, this 5-kilometre self-guided journey is perfect: it connects the main historical monuments of the South African city. Thus, you can admire along your walk of the famous buildings of the city like Campanile, a tower that celebrates the first British settlers who arrived in 1820, the Fort Frederick or Victorian-style houses!

2. St. George’s Park

To complete your visit to the historic centre, why not walk in the oldest garden in the city? More than a park, the St. George’s Park There are many sports facilities, such as a cricket stadium, as well as superb greenhouses where rare orchids are located. Because it also hosts the Victorian Pearson Conservatory, built in 1882 to cultivate exotic plants!

3. The beaches of Port Elizabeth

If you're visiting Port Elizabeth, then don't miss discovering the many beautiful beaches around the city! Blue Flag Beach is the best beaches in the Eastern Cap region. This label guarantees respect for the environment, water quality and the safety of the beach. There are three around Port Elizabeth: Kings Beach, Hobie Beach and Humewood Beach . On each of these beautiful shores, you can work your complexion, swim or try one of the national sports: surfing!

4. SANCCOB Penguin Rescue Station

Located in the wild and beautiful Cape Recife Nature Reserve, south of the city, SANCCOB is a protected bird search and rescue centre. So if you’re wondering what to do in Port Elizabeth, especially do not hesitate to visit this superb centre to learn more about penguins and other protected species that save and rehabilitate the SANCCOB!

5. Bayworld Oceanarium

This is a must-see in Port Elizabeth! The Bayworld Oceanarium is a natural history museum dedicated to marine species and reptiles. Thus, it has an oceanographic room with whale skeletons, reduced boat models, as well as geological and historical exhibitions! In the museum there is also a park of snakes, crocodiles and alligators and an oceanarium where different marine animals are presented!

6. Sardinia Bay

Located south of the city, the shores of the Sardinia Bay are to be discovered absolutely when you go to Port Elizabeth! This wild space, part of which forms a natural reserve, is perfect for scuba diving, kite-surfing sessions, romantic walks or equestrian hikes.

Along the desert white sandy beaches, you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of one of the most beautiful places in South Africa. No doubt that during your walks you will discover breathtaking scenes and shows.

7. Settler’s Park

Located in the city of Port Elizabeth, not far from the historic centre, the natural reserve of Settler’s Park is absolutely worth visiting! During your walk in this reserve, you can admire the many species of antelopes that live there.

8. Valley Market

If you have planned to visit Port Elizbath, then you have to go to Valley Market ! Located not far from the historic centre, it is known for its vibrant and vibrant Saturday market. To discover local crafts and gastronomy, this place is a must. During your holidays in the Valley Market, you can taste the local street food offered at small stalls or buy a burger or a delicious ice to accompany your walk!

9. Kragga Kamma Game Park

What to do in Port Elizabeth? Admire more protected animals and species! Of course! After sea birds and animals, why not discover the terrestrial fauna and flora? Located east of the city, the Kragga Kamma Game Park is home to many African species, such as rhinoceros, cheetahs, giraffes or ostriches. The park is not a simple zoo: you can discover the different species in their natural environment during a car park visit. It is even possible to enjoy a guided tour with a park professional to learn more about the various animals you will encounter during your visit!

10. Addo Elephant National Park

Are you still wondering what to do in Port Elizabeth? So you must absolutely discover the famous Parc National des Éléphants d’Addo located 72 kilometers from the port city! As with the Kragga Kamma Game Park, you can admire beautiful animals in their natural environment, and in particular, beautiful elephants, as the name of this National Park indicates! We especially recommend you to take a tour to discover this exceptional place a few kilometers from Port Elizabeth.

How to get to Port Elizabeth?

To visit Port Elizabeth, several means of transport are possible: the plane, train, bus or car. To reach the harbour city by plane, you will have to count at least one to two ports of call. From Paris you will find many flights to , a mandatory stopover to Port Elizabeth. To discover the best prices and connections, please visit our partner’s website Ulysses .

It is also possible to reach Port Elizabeth by train, bus or car if you opt for the vehicle rental on arrival from another South African destination, as Cape For example, walking through the beautiful Garden Road!

Where to stay in Port Elizabeth?

If you would like to visit Elizabeth, you should know that there are many housing opportunities. There are charming people neighborhoods where to stay in Port Elizabeth , like the historic center or the surroundings of the city! For your accommodation, you will have no trouble finding your happiness, regardless of your budget.