Port Elizabeth (also fondly referred to as “the windy city”), which is nestled in Algoa Bay, is a major port city that serves many travelers looking for a coastal escape, and also forms part of the Garden Route.
You’ve booked your cheap domestic flights to PE and now all that’s left to do is plan what you will do during your stay. Not sure where to start? We have some great ideas for you. If you have never traveled to PE before, you’re in for an absolute treat! Below are just 5 unusual things for you to do when visiting Port Elizabeth.
Head to the beach
Top beaches to visit in PE include the likes of Blue Horizon Bay, Beachview Beach, Sardinia Bay, Schoemakerskop Beach, Pollock Beach, Hobie Beach, Humewood Beach, Kings Beach, and Denville Beach.
Now you might be thinking that a beach day is not really considered a “path less traveled’’, but it can be if you choose one of Port Elizabeth’s secret beaches. One such beach that’s worth a visit is the deserted stretch that’s found at the MV Patti wreckage site (just past the Cape Receife shooting range).
The ship which was wrecked in 1976 is now home to colourful invertebrates and small fish. Some divers choose to dive and explore the site only when the tide is high and conditions are suitable. However, if you plan your visit to this beach during low tide, you can actually walk out to the site of the wreck with ease.
Get up close and personal with the Big Five at Addo Elephant Park
With the Addo Elephant National Park just 30 minutes away from the city center, it’s close enough to get to for a day trip. Here you can spend a wonderful day game driving, relaxing and discovering the plethora of wildlife on offer in the Eastern Cape.
The park is thriving with wildlife and it provides the opportunity of a lifetime to those who haven’t encountered Africa’s wild yet.
Soak in the colourful beauty of the Van Staden’s Flower Reserve
Just 40km outside of the city center lies the Van Staden’s Flower Reserve. The reserve protects rare plants and also hosts a traditional Xhosa homestead (umzi) which is definitely worth a visit too. Spend hours gazing out across the colourful landscape of flowers. Entrance to the reserve is absolutely free.
Spend a few festive hours on the Beer Route
This route requires a group of 4 or more travelers. The route starts at Dockside Brewery, heads on to Bridge Street Brewery and finishes at the Beer Yard. Beer tasters and snacks are included. It’s best to book the tour with a registered tour company that can arrange the activity for you.
Celebrate the country’s past by strolling Route 67 Art & Heritage Walk
This is both a cultural and historical activity. History and art lovers alike will be simply enthralled with this particular display. Route 67 includes 67 different pieces of art completed by 67 different local artists.
The walk is located in central PE and was created in 2011 to celebrate the 67 years that Mandela dedicated to public life and the struggle for freedom. Entrance is free and you will find yourself happy to spend a good few hours exploring the artworks.
Book cheap domestic flights & explore Port Elizabeth!
With a wealth of things to see and do in Port Elizabeth, it’s no wonder that it’s considered a popular travel destination for those looking for sun, sand, surf and a bit of culture and history too. The people of Port Elizabeth are friendly, welcoming and sure to make your stay one to be remembered.
If you’re ready to book your cheap domestic flights to Port Elizabeth, make sure that you don’t miss out on all that the city has to offer. Don’t be afraid to take the paths less traveled in PE, here you will find out just how truly beautiful and diverse the city really is.