Cruise Port Gqeberha: Things To Do in Port Elizabeth
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A visit to Gqeberha, Port Elizabeth South Africa, offers easy access to wildlife, city landmarks, and coastal scenery. Here’s what to know before arriving.
Gqeberha vs. Port Elizabeth
Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, is a major coastal city in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The name officially changed in 2021 as part of a national effort to replace colonial-era names with ones reflecting indigenous heritage. Gqeberha comes from the Xhosa language and is derived from the name of a local river, but many still refer to the city as Port Elizabeth, especially in tourism and business.
How to Get to the City Center from the Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Port
The cruise terminal is located near the Campanile in the city center, making it easy to access main attractions. Walking into the city center is possible, as it’s only about 1 km to key sites like the Donkin Reserve and Route 67. Uber and Bolt are the most convenient transportation options, as traditional taxis can be unreliable or require fare negotiation. Public buses are not well-suited for visitors, and minibus taxis are not recommended for those unfamiliar with the area. If heading further out, car rentals or guided tours are better options. The waterfront area near the port has some attractions, but most visitors will want to go inland for sightseeing.
Is Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Safe?
Gqeberha has mixed safety reviews. The main tourist areas, like Donkin Reserve and Boardwalk Casino, are generally safe. Avoid walking alone after dark and be aware of petty theft in crowded places. If you’re heading to wildlife reserves, tour operators prioritize safety. Using Uber or a pre-booked driver is recommended over walking or waiting for taxis on the street.
How to Get Around Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Walking is only practical in certain areas like the beachfront and Donkin Heritage Trail. For longer distances, Uber and Bolt are the most reliable options. Public minibusses are available but aren’t recommended for visitors unfamiliar with the routes. Some hotels offer shuttle services, and guided tours usually include transportation.
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What to See in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Donkin Reserve
Map: Google Maps
A hilltop landmark with a mix of history, public art, and city views. The 1861 Donkin Lighthouse stands next to a massive South African flag, making it one of the most recognizable spots in Gqeberha. The area is also home to Route 67, an outdoor art trail featuring sculptures and mosaics celebrating Nelson Mandela’s legacy (see next listing). It’s a key stop for understanding the city’s past and offers one of the best panoramic views in the area.
Route 67
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This public art trail connects historic and modern elements of South African culture, featuring 67 artworks representing Nelson Mandela’s years of public service. The route includes colorful mosaics, metal sculptures, and murals, each telling a piece of the country's history. A standout feature is the staircase lined with bright mosaics leading toward the Donkin Reserve. Artists from around the country contributed to the project, making it a showcase of South African creativity and storytelling. It’s a walkable attraction that blends history, art, and political symbolism in an open-air setting.
South End Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A small but impactful museum that documents the forced removals of the South End community during apartheid. Exhibits include old photographs, personal testimonies, and artifacts that tell the stories of families displaced by the government’s segregation policies. The museum highlights what the neighborhood once was—a diverse, multicultural community—before residents were forcibly relocated. Informational panels and video displays provide firsthand accounts of life before and after the removals. It’s a sobering but important stop for those interested in South Africa’s complex social history.
Boardwalk Mall & Entertainment World
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A commercial and entertainment complex with a casino, shops, and a mix of casual and upscale dining options. The man-made lake at the center of the property is surrounded by restaurants and bars, making it a popular nightlife spot. The casino offers slots and table games, while the entertainment venues occasionally host live performances and events. While the mall itself has a selection of retail stores, it’s more about the dining and leisure experience than serious shopping. Located near the beachfront, it’s one of the more developed areas for visitors looking for entertainment outside of nature and wildlife attractions.
Bayworld Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A combination of museum, small oceanarium, and reptile park with exhibits on local marine life, shipwrecks, and regional history. The museum houses artifacts from historical shipwrecks along the Eastern Cape coast, as well as exhibits on indigenous cultures and early European settlers. The snake park has a collection of reptiles native to the region, including puff adders and cobras. While some exhibits show their age, it’s one of the few places in the city covering both natural and cultural history in a single location. Note: The Oceanarium portion of the complex was recently closed and the area is slated for redevelopment. Be sure to do some up to date research before adding this to your itinerary.
Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Map: Google Maps
A coastal reserve with rocky shores, sandy beaches, and walking trails leading to the historic Cape Recife Lighthouse. The reserve is known for birdwatching, with species like African black oystercatchers and various seabirds frequenting the area. The trails offer a mix of beach and dune landscapes, with occasional views of dolphins offshore. The lighthouse, built in 1851, is still operational and serves as a landmark within the reserve. While the terrain can be rough in places, it’s a good choice for those looking to explore the coastline beyond the city beaches.
Sardinia Bay Beach
Map: Google Maps
A wide, undeveloped stretch of coastline known for its massive sand dunes and strong waves. While the currents make swimming dangerous, the area is popular for hiking, photography, and sandboarding. The dunes offer panoramic views of the ocean and are often used for sandboarding excursions. Access to the beach requires a short walk through the dunes, but the effort is rewarded with a quiet, unspoiled landscape. It’s a good spot for those looking to see a less commercialized part of the coastline.
Kragga Kamma Game Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A compact private reserve offering self-drive and guided tours with close-up views of white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs. The park is smaller than larger national reserves, meaning less driving between sightings and a higher chance of spotting wildlife quickly. Walkways allow visitors to observe cheetahs in a semi-natural habitat. The reserve focuses on conservation, particularly for endangered species like the white rhino. It’s a convenient option for those wanting a wildlife experience without the long drives of a full safari.
Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve
Map: Google Maps
A botanical reserve known for its fynbos vegetation, walking trails, and views over the Van Stadens River Gorge. The reserve is home to a variety of native plant species, including proteas, which attract sunbirds and other wildlife. Trails range from short, easy walks to more challenging routes that lead to scenic viewpoints. The gorge itself is a major feature, with steep cliffs and a river running through the bottom. It’s a good choice for those interested in South Africa’s plant life and landscapes outside the urban center.
SANCCOB Seabird Rehabilitation Centre
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A working rescue and rehabilitation facility for injured seabirds, including the endangered African penguin. Tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at how rescued birds are treated and prepared for release back into the wild. Visitors can see feeding sessions, learn about threats to seabird populations, and hear about the organization’s conservation efforts. Some penguins at the center are permanent residents due to injuries that prevent them from surviving in the wild. It’s a worthwhile visit for those interested in conservation and marine wildlife.
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A small museum showcasing South African art, with a focus on local and Xhosa artists. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, beadwork, and rotating exhibitions from national and international artists. The museum provides insight into South Africa’s artistic traditions and contemporary art scene. While not large, it offers a diverse range of styles and mediums, making it an interesting cultural stop. Admission is free, making it an easy addition to a city itinerary.
Horse Memorial
Map: Google Maps
A bronze statue commemorating the thousands of horses that died during the Anglo-Boer War. The monument features a soldier kneeling beside his horse, symbolizing the role of animals in wartime. Originally built in 1905, the statue has become one of the most well-known landmarks in the city. It has also been the focus of political debates and occasional vandalism, adding to its historical significance. While it’s a quick stop, it’s an interesting piece of military history in an unexpected form.
The Campanile
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A 53-meter-high bell tower built in 1923 to honor the 1820 British Settlers. Visitors can climb the 204 steps to the top for views over the city and harbor. The interior features historical displays, and a set of 23 bells chime at intervals throughout the day. A recent renovation added a digital carillon that plays local and international tunes. It’s one of the best spots for an overhead view of the city, though the climb is steep.
AutoPavilion at Volkswagen SA
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A car museum in nearby Uitenhage that showcases Volkswagen’s history in South Africa, including classic models, concept cars, and interactive exhibits. The museum covers the brand’s evolution, from early Beetles to modern electric vehicles. Factory tours are available for those who book in advance, offering a look at the manufacturing process. It’s a niche attraction but a must-see for automotive enthusiasts. The facility is modern and well-maintained, making it one of the better industrial museums in the country. Factory tours are free, but advance booking is required via phone number on their webpage (ages 8 and up).
Holmeleigh Farmyard
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A family-friendly attraction featuring farm animals, tractor rides, and demonstrations of local farming practices. Visitors can feed and interact with animals like goats, rabbits, and cows, making it popular with younger audiences. The farm also offers pony rides and an outdoor play area. While mainly targeted at families, it provides a glimpse into agricultural life in the Eastern Cape. It’s more of a hands-on experience than a traditional petting zoo.
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Best Cruise Ship Shore Excursions at the Port of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Addo Elephant National Park Full-Day Safari
This guided safari takes you through one of South Africa’s top wildlife reserves, home to over 600 elephants along with lions, buffalo, zebras, and antelope. The open-air game drive offers excellent chances to see animals up close, with knowledgeable guides providing insight into their behavior and the park’s conservation efforts. Since this is a full-day tour, expect a mix of driving and animal sightings with a stop for lunch. The terrain is varied, ranging from open plains to dense bush, increasing the odds of spotting different species. It’s a solid option for those who want a serious safari experience without traveling too far from the port.
Sundays River Canoe Trip
Paddle through the calm waters of the Sundays River, an area known for its birdlife and sand dunes lining the shore. This guided excursion is a slower-paced way to experience local wildlife, with possible sightings of kingfishers, fish eagles, and water monitors. The route is easy to navigate, making it accessible for both beginners and those with paddling experience. Expect to see shifting landscapes as you move along, from forested riverbanks to open sandbanks that stretch toward the Indian Ocean. It’s a different perspective on the region’s natural environment, best suited for those interested in wildlife and water-based activities.
Kragga Kamma Game Park Half-Day Tour
For a shorter wildlife experience, this tour takes you to Kragga Kamma, a compact but well-stocked reserve with rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, and various antelope species. The park’s smaller size means less time spent searching for animals and more time actually seeing them. Guides provide commentary about the conservation efforts, particularly for species like the white rhino, which is under threat from poaching. The reserve also has an elevated walkway for closer encounters with cheetahs in their large enclosure. It’s a convenient alternative to longer safaris while still offering big-game sightings.
City Highlights & Donkin Reserve Tour
This tour covers key landmarks in Gqeberha, including Route 67, an outdoor art trail celebrating South African history and culture. The Donkin Reserve, with its pyramid monument and lighthouse, provides panoramic city views and is a central stop on the tour. Expect a mix of colonial and modern influences, with stops at significant sites that highlight the city’s past and present. Guides explain the stories behind the murals, sculptures, and historic buildings, adding context to the walk. It’s a good introduction to the city’s cultural and political history without requiring extensive travel.
Beach Horseback Riding
Ride along the shoreline on a guided horseback tour, with options for beginners and more experienced riders. The terrain varies from firm, wet sand near the water to softer dunes further inland, giving riders a mix of riding conditions. Guides match horses to skill levels, ensuring that both first-timers and advanced riders have a suitable experience. Depending on the tour, there may be opportunities to pick up speed on open stretches or take a more controlled ride through changing scenery. It’s a unique way to cover more ground along the coast while experiencing the area from a different perspective.
Cape Recife Nature Reserve & Lighthouse Tour
This tour explores Cape Recife’s rugged coastline, stopping at the historic lighthouse that has been guiding ships since the 1800s. The reserve is home to diverse birdlife, including African black oystercatchers and terns, making it an interesting stop for those into birdwatching. The route includes rocky shores, sandy beaches, and old military installations from World War II. Guides provide background on the area’s maritime history and its role in local conservation efforts. While not as wildlife-heavy as a safari, this tour offers a mix of history, coastal scenery, and ecological significance.
Sardinia Bay Sandboarding
This excursion takes you to the massive dunes of Sardinia Bay, where you’ll be equipped with a sandboard for fast descents. After a short hike to the top, you’ll get instructions on technique before trying different slopes, ranging from beginner-friendly to steeper, faster runs. The soft sand makes falls easy to handle, and the activity doesn’t require previous experience. The location also offers wide, uninterrupted views of the coastline between runs. It’s an active, high-energy option for those looking for something beyond traditional sightseeing.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in South Africa!
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Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Cruise Port Map
Map: Google Maps
Port Authority Map: Transnet
Best Things to Do in Port of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa:
Donkin Reserve
Route 67
South End Museum
Boardwalk Mall & Entertainment World
Bayworld Museum & Oceanarium
Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Sardinia Bay Beach
Kragga Kamma Game Park
Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve
SANCCOB Seabird Rehabilitation Centre
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
Horse Memorial
The Campanile
AutoPavilion at Volkswagen SA
Holmeleigh Farmyard
