Dreaming of a destination that merges the peacefulness of the coastal life with a vibrant mix of cultural and natural wonders? Be whisked away on a virtual voyage as we dissect the allure of Port Elizabeth, the gateway to South Africa’s Eastern Cape. From the picturesque sandy shores to the roaring wildlife of its national parks, Port Elizabeth is a canvas of adventures waiting to unfold.
Port Elizabeth, fondly known as ‘The Friendly City,’ embodies the laid-back essence of coastal living. This gem of South Africa is fringed by the Indian Ocean and sheltered by the vast blue canvas of Algoa Bay. Expect pristine beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, an enviable marine life, and a refreshing subtropical climate that is the cherry on top of this paradise.
Our ATOL-approved flights offer the safest experience for your next journey. Ready to discover the wonders of Port Elizabeth? Pack your virtual bags as we set out for an unforgettable encounter with this coastal gem.
Explore Port Elizabeth with Woking Travel!
Flights To Port Elizabeth Guide
With dynamic travel options and an international airport directly linking to major cities, getting to Port Elizabeth is convenient. The Port Elizabeth International Airport is the primary gateway to the Eastern Cape and boasts a modern terminal and a range of facilities to kick-start your South African adventure.
Woking Travel’s ATOL-approved flights offer the safest experience for your next journey. Ready to discover the wonders of Port Elizabeth? Pack your bags as we set out for an unforgettable encounter with this coastal gem.
For travellers looking for transport to the airport or hotel, Woking Travel offers transportation services that make your journey an experience. It is a great help for all those unfamiliar with the area. To book your transfer, please visit Transfers-Woking Travel.
Port Elizabeth offers diverse accommodations, from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly lodges. We offer you the best hotel and holiday deals so you can enjoy your best. Here are a few top recommendations to ensure your stay is comfortable and memorable.
- The Boardwalk Hotel: A top-rated, luxurious hotel with easy access to the beach and entertainment complex.
- Singa Town Lodge: A boutique hotel in the leafy suburb of Summerstrand, offering an intimate and tranquil atmosphere for your stay.
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth: A 5-star hotel with stunning sea views and modern amenities.
- Beachwalk B&B: This charming bed and breakfast is on the beach, offering a cosy and convenient stay.
- Paxton Hotel: Known as the ‘Friendly City’ of South Africa, Port Elizabeth is home to the Paxton Hotel.With stunning views of Algoa Bay, the hotel is situated above the port.
- Isango Gate Boutique Hotel And Spa: The Isango Boutique Hotel and Spa is located near the beach in Summerstrand. They offer the greatest spa in Port Elizabeth, with highly skilled therapists waiting to provide you to the most luxurious spa experiences imaginable.
- The Boardwalk Hotel: The Boardwalk Hotel, Convention Centre, and Spa seamlessly blends every contemporary convenience with the elegance and refinement of Victorian architecture.
- Amakhala Game Reserve: The best location for your Big 5 Safari is Amakhala Game Reserve. This 7,500 hectare reserve is well known for its incredibly amazing terrain, which is the result of the Bushman’s River winding through it gently.
- The Russel Guesthouse: The Russel Guest House is only three minutes’ walk from the beach and is situated in the peaceful Summerstrand area. The facility features a garden with a swimming pool, free safe parking, and semi-luxurious accommodations.
- Amery House: Travellers have been the focus of our newly renovated Tuscan villa, which is located in the centre of Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth.
Moving around Port Elizabeth is convenient and well-organized, with options including public transport, rental cars, shuttles, and taxis.
- Buses: The local bus service is affordable for getting around the city and its outskirts.
- Taxis: Metered taxis are readily available and offer a reliable service within the city.
- Car Rentals: For those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace, car rentals are available at the airport and various locations in the city.
- The Boardwalk Entertainment Complex: The Boardwalk’s bustling entertainment hub offers a multifaceted experience—a delicate blend of retail therapy, a gaming arcade, world-class restaurants, and an air of festive charisma.
- Bayworld: Discover the marine and cultural history of the Eastern Cape, ideal for a family day out with its museum, oceanarium, and Snake Park. It is South Africa’s fifth oldest marine institute, making it both educational and intriguing.
- Kragga Kamma Game Park: This is where your wild adventure begins. Sprawling over 14.5 square kilometres, Kragga Kamma offers a safari experience, where visitors can spot white rhinos, buffalo, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras.
- Donkin Reserve: Step into a historical realm at Donkin Reserve, a public space fraught with the city’s heritage. The reserve is also home to the iconic Pyramid Art structure, which stands in memory of Sir Rufane Donkin.
- St. George’s Park: Dubbed as the city’s oldest and loveliest park, St. George’s Park is a green oasis perfect for a relaxing afternoon picnic or a stroll. It’s also home to the historic Cricket Club, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s sports culture.
- Addo Elephant National Park: Just an hour’s drive from the city, Addo Elephant National Park is a sanctuary for over 600 elephants, lions, and the city’s original residents—cadres of flightless dung beetles.
- Mandela Bay Stadium: A landmark in its own right, the Mandela Bay Stadium is a monument to architecture. It played a memorable role in the 2010 World Cup and continues to symbolise sportsmanship and culture.
- Route 67: Celebrate the life and times of Nelson Mandela on Route 67, which is lined with 67 public artworks that narrate the story of the anti-apartheid struggle leading up to the World Heritage site of the Campanile.
- Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve: For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve, especially during spring, is an absolute treat. The reserve is recognized for its unique flora, providing hikers and picnickers with a tranquil escape.
- South End Museum: Gain an understanding of South Africa’s past and its fight against apartheid at the South End Museum. The museum chronicles the history of South End, a district that was destroyed in the apartheid era.
- Muse Restaurant: It is located in Richmond Hill. Muse offers modern comfort food with a creative twist. It features dishes like beef short rib and smoked pork belly.
- Sticky Fingers Wood fire Kitchen: This steakhouse and barbecue joint is celebrated for its quality steaks and cosy ambiance. It is perfect for a casual dining experience with friends and family.
- SUKI Sushi & Asian Cuisine: It is known for its selection of sushi and Asian dishes. SUKI is a popular spot for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts.
- De Kelder: It is situated in Summerstrand. De Kelder provides an airy, ocean-themed setting with a varied menu focusing on seafood and steaks, complemented by a fine selection of wines.
- Charlie’s Pizza & Pasta: Charlie’s offers delicious thin-crust pizzas, pasta, and stunning ocean views. This makes it ideal for both casual and special occasions.
- Ginger The Restaurant: It is located at the Beach Hotel. Ginger specialises in seafood and international cuisine. Its stylish decor and prime waterfront location make it a popular choice for fine dining.
- TORO Sushi, Teppanyaki & Seafood: This Japanese restaurant combines sushi, teppanyaki, and seafood in a lively setting with an interactive dining experience.
- Shanna’s Portuguese Restaurant: They are offering a delightful mix of Portuguese and European dishes. Shanna’s is known for its prawns, buttery steaks, and excellent service.
- The Kindred Kitchen: It is best for vegan and vegetarian options, The Kindred Kitchen in Richmond Hill serves innovative dishes like buckwheat-and-beetroot pancakes and zoodles with bean balls.
- The Coachman Restaurant: It is known for its European cuisine, The Coachman offers a diverse menu in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a hearty meal.
Prepare for a sensory overload as we unveil the top 10 must-dos in Port Elizabeth. Each experience is unique and memorable, promising to etch stories in your travel journal.
- Addo Elephant National Park: This park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see over 600 elephants, along with lions, buffalo, and a variety of other species in their natural habitat.
- Storms River Bridge: Known for its stunning views and as part of the Garden Route, this bridge is a marvel of engineering and offers opportunities for adventure activities like bungee jumping and canopy tours.
- Shamwari Private Game Reserve: Located about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, this reserve is famous for its luxury lodges and conservation efforts, including the iconic Big Five.
- Seaview Predator Park: Visit this wildlife park to see big cats like lions and tigers, as well as other predators in a natural setting. It’s a great spot for animal lovers and families.
- Bayworld: This complex includes a museum, oceanarium, and snake park. It’s a great place to learn about the cultural and natural history of the area and see marine life up close.
- Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve: This nature reserve offers beautiful hiking trails and picnic spots, showcasing a variety of indigenous flowers and plants.
- Cape Recife Nature Reserve: Explore this 366-hectare reserve for great hiking, beachcombing, and bird watching. The reserve is also home to the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, where you can see rescued marine birds.
- South African Air Force Museum: Situated near the airport, this museum features a collection of aircraft and memorabilia related to the history of the South African Air Force.
- Sundays River Cruise and Sandboarding: Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Sundays River followed by an exciting sandboarding experience on the Alexandria Dune Field.
- South End Museum: This museum documents the history of the forced removals during apartheid, offering a poignant glimpse into the past of Port Elizabeth’s South End suburb.
Port Elizabeth enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for travellers at any time. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- Summer (December to February): Daytime temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F). Nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15°C (59°F).
- Autumn (March to May): Daytime temperatures range between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F), and evening temperatures can drop as low as 10°C (50°F).
- Winter (June to August): Day temperatures are usually between 14°C (57°F) and 18°C (64°F), with night temperatures dropping to 7°C (45°F) to 10°C (50°F).
- Spring (September to November): Daytime temperatures range from 16°C (61°F) to 21°C (70°F), with evenings cooling down to between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F).
Keep these ranges in mind to pack appropriately for your visit, ensuring a comfortable stay in Port Elizabeth. You can get more weather updates here.
- GMT: Port Elizabeth operates on South African Standard Time, which is GMT+2.
- BST: During BST (British Summer Time), it is one hour ahead.
Currency:
The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). ATMs are widely available throughout Port Elizabeth. Moreover, cash remains prevalent, particularly in smaller outlets, though card payments are gaining ground in larger establishments.
Language:
English is widely spoken in Port Elizabeth and throughout South Africa, along with Afrikaans and isiXhosa also being commonly used.
Local Customs:
Port Elizabethans are generally friendly and welcoming. It’s customary to meet people with a warm smile and a firm handshake. While South Africa has a varied culture, respecting local traditions and being considerate of cultural differences is always regarded.
Local Laws:
Stay informed about local laws and customs to ensure a respectful and safe visit. Follow travel advisories and take necessary precautions to safeguard your trip.
For additional details and to plan your trip safely, consider referencing the following resources:
Port Elizabeth promises an escape to a world harmoniously defined by tranquillity and adventure. From the lush vistas of its game reserves to the sparkling coastline of Algoa Bay, the city unites diverse experiences seamlessly.
Our expert guides and booking services are tailored to ensure that every moment of your trip aligns with your expectations of a perfect vacation. As you yearn for a serene hiatus or an exhilarating escapade, trust Port Elizabeth to leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.
Book your flight with Woking Travel today and prepare for an odyssey of discovery, merriment, and introspection against the backdrop of South Africa’s coastal jewel.