Port Elizabeth

South Africa, Africa

Port Elizabeth, known as the "Friendly City," is famous for its beautiful beaches, adventure sports, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the stunning Addo Elephant National Park nearby, offering incredible wildlife experiences. The city's waterfront, filled with restaurants and shops, is perfect for evening strolls. The warm climate and diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Port Elizabeth

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Addo Elephant National Park

Experience wildlife up close in a stunning park.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Boardwalk

Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment by the beach.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Nelson Mandela Bay Art Museum

Admire local art in a vibrant cultural space.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Humewood Beach

Bask in the sun on a beautiful sandy beach.

No booking required
5

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cape Recife Nature Reserve

Explore stunning coastal landscapes and diverse wildlife.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Port Elizabeth Museum

Learn about the region's history and marine life.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a dolphin viewing cruise

See dolphins in their natural habitat on a boat.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through the Donkin Reserve

Explore a historic park with great views of the bay.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the South African Air Force Museum

Discover aviation history and military aircraft.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy the nightlife at Stanley Street

Experience vibrant bars and clubs in the city.

No booking required
11

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a trip to the Kragga Kamma Game Park

Spot wildlife in a safari-like environment.

No booking required
12

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go shark cage diving at Port St Francis

Get up close to sharks in a thrilling experience.

Booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bayworld Museum

Explore marine and cultural history in one spot.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

5 (#38 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Rand

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Zulu

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bobotie

Spiced minced meat baked with egg. (National dish)

Biltong

Cured, dried meat, often beef or game.

Braai/Shisa Nyama

Barbecued meat, often served with sides.

Bunny Chow

Curry in a hollowed-out bread loaf.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast-iron pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Zulu

Hello

Sawubona

(Sah-woo-boh-nah)

Yes/No

Yebo / Cha

(Yeh-boh / Chah)

Thank you

Ngiyabonga

(Ngee-ah-bon-gah)

Excuse me

Uxolo

(Oo-ksoh-loh)

How much?

Malini?

(Mah-lee-nee)