Tourism in Port Elizabeth: South Africa
On the Eastern Cape, Port Elizabeth, called “PE” by the locals, is South
Africa’s third largest port and boasts some of the country’s cleanest city
beaches. With more than 40 kilometers of coastline lapped by the clear waters
of beautiful Algoa Bay, water sports run the gamut here, from surfing, sailing,
swimming, and fishing to windsurfing, kiteboarding, and Scuba diving. But Port
Elizabeth is not all about the sea.
Top Places to Visit in Port Elizabeth
Addo Elephant National Park
South Africa’s third biggest national park,
Addo Elephant National Park lies 72 kilometers north of Port Elizabeth and
offers nature lovers the taste of a true African safari. The park encompasses
more than 444,000 acres extending from the Karoo, in the north, over the
Zuurberg range to the coast. The park was established in 1931 to preserve the last eleven South African bush
elephants from extinction. The ride to this national park is
well arranged by a South Africa Tour Operator.
The Donkin Reserve
In the city’s historic hub, the
Donkin Reserve is a small park
established in 1820 by Sir Rufane Donkin, Port Elizabeth’s
founder. A highlight of the park is the poignant pyramid-shaped memorial to Sir
Donkin’s wife, Elizabeth, inscribed with the words: “To the memory of one of
the most perfect of human beings who has given her name to the town below.” The
nearby lighthouse, dating from 1861, houses the tourism office. The Donkin
Reserve is also the start of Route 67, the city’s popular art and heritage
trail with a South Africa Travel Agent.
Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve
About 40 kilometers west of Port
Elizabeth, Van Stadens Nature Reserve is the perfect place for a hike and a picnic. The well-maintained paths are easy to
follow and the walks vary in difficulty, from gentle paths through old-growth
native trees to more challenging hikes through thick forests and along rushing
streams. Those who walk to the Van Stadens Bridge will be rewarded with
beautiful views over the steep ravine and fantastic opportunities for
photography. At reception, a flower house displays a startling array of blooms,
including many species of proteas. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and pack a
picnic.
Beaches
Port Elizabeth boasts some of the
tidiest and safest city beaches in South Africa. More than 40 kilometers of
sun-splashed sand rims the coast along Algoa Bay. The best picks for a swim are
Wells Estate Beach with a paddling pool and water slides; well-shaded Humewood
Beach; and popular Kings Beach, with kiosks, restaurants, a skate park, and
other entertainment facilities close by. Near the Boardwalk entertainment
complex, Hobie Beach offers sheltered rock pools and is well suited for
swimming and windsurfing. To explore all the beaches of this beautiful city
plan a trip with a South Africa Travel Agency.
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