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Welcome to Port Elizabeth


Conveniently set at the end of the glorious Garden Route, Port Elizabeth, or P.E for short, is a sleepy seaside city which bustles to life every summer. The fifth largest city in South Africa, Port Elizabeth easily lives up to its nicknames as either 'The Friendly City', or 'The Windy City'. It is a major sea port city, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa. This is thanks to a combination of world class yet comfortable and casual accommodation options, a bustling seaside atmosphere and a wonderful climate. These factors all contribute to an exceptional quality of life in Port Elizabeth.

Port Elizabeth is home to a plethora of historical attractions, including the Historic Donkin Heritage trail, a reminiscent walk in the footsteps of the 1820 settlers. Port Elizabeth is also known for its lush, malaria-free game reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, crystal clear beaches and friendly and hospitable locals.

Location:

Situated in the bustling province of the Eastern Cape, just 770 km from Cape Town and all her attractions, Port Elizabeth is the perfect compliment to the Garden Route. Boasting endless miles of glorious beaches with warm water and numerous game reserves, Port Elizabeth is a wonderfully laid back destination. While not as commercial as Cape Town, this is often part of the city's appeal. Here you will find less crowds and activity while still enjoying a relaxing, world class, and family friendly experience.
Port Elizabeth was founded by British settlers in 1820. 'Elizabeth' is the name of the wife of the Acting Governor of the Cape Colony at that time, Rufane Donkin. The city now forms part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and boasts a population of over one million.

Accommodation:

Accommodation is abundant in Port Elizabeth, and range from budget hostels and backpacker lodges to luxurious hotels and guest houses. Whatever your accommodation needs, they will be met in Port Elizabeth.

Budget - Port Elizabeth boasts numerous backpacker lodges which cater for the more budget conscious traveller. These lodges are either located in and around the city, close to the beaches, or even within a game reserve or wildlife area. At most lodges the staff will be more than happy to arrange safari trips on request.

Mid-range - Numerous guest houses, beach houses, B&Bs, and hotels are scattered throughout the city, offering guests a comfortable yet affordable stay in the city. Most of these accommodations feature excellent facilities and amenities, including ADSL, on site restaurants, swimming pools, and off street, secure parking facilities. Enjoy five star treatment without the price tag in Port Elizabeth.

Luxury - There are numerous star rated hotels and game lodges that offer luxury services and facilities and comfortable rooms. Most of these accommodations also offer spectacular bush or sea views.

Attractions and Activities:

Port Elizabeth is home to a wide range of activities, ideally suited to those interested in historical experience, for beach babies looking for a casual respite from the summer, or for families wanting a memorable experience.

Attractions:

  • Donkin Reserve - This reserve is named after Rufane Donkin, ex Acting Governor of the Cape Colony in the 1820s. The historic lighthouse which stands within the reserve was built in 1861 and is open to the public.
  • Nelson Mandela Bay City - Tour this area as it is home to the Town Hall, Feather Market Hall, the Old Post Office, Fort Frederick, Donkin Reserve, Settlers Park, and the Horse Memorial.
  • Township tours - Organised tours are offered through the townships of Port Elizabeth. An insightful journey through the lives of the less fortunate in South Africa.
  • Bayworld - A great place to spend the afternoon, here you can catch exceptional dolphin performances. Bayworld also houses a museum, oceanarium and snake park.

Activities:

Port Elizabeth is a wonderful start or finish to a Garden Route tour, and a wonderful game viewing destination. The Addo Elephant Park can be found here, as well as numerous other privately owned game reserves.

  • Wildlife sanctuary - The African Dawn Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife.
  • Beaches - Hobie, Humewood, Kings and Wells Estate Beach are the most popular swimming beaches, ideal for families. Humewood and Wells boast blue flag status.
  • Apple Express - A classic steam train which travels through a 100 km narrow gauge, with a stop on the Van Stadens River Bridge.
  • Kagga Kamma Game Park - Home to white rhino, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and other wildlife, stay overnight in camp sites or opt for a self drive excursion through the park.


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