Nicknamed “The Friendly City,” this South African coastal city serves as a gateway to Addo Elephant National Park and the malaria-free Garden Route safari region.

Why Visit Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

Port Elizabeth, officially renamed Gqeberha, combines a working harbor city with easy access to Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s malaria-free “Big Five” safari destinations. Its beaches and Route 67 public art trail add urban attractions alongside the nearby wildlife.

Top Experiences

  • Addo Elephant National Park: A malaria-free reserve home to elephants, lions, and the full Big Five, about an hour from the city.
  • Route 67 art trail: A public art walk of 67 artworks representing Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service.
  • Boardwalk beaches: A stretch of beaches along Humewood and Kings Beach, popular for swimming and surfing.
  • Donkin Reserve: A historic hilltop park with colonial-era monuments and city views.
Intro To Surfing at Jeffrey's Bay

Intro To Surfing at Jeffrey's Bay

★ 5.0 (26)
From USD 30.11

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Private Half-Day Addo Elephant National Park Safari

Private Half-Day Addo Elephant National Park Safari

★ 5.0 (22)
From USD 176.15

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Giraffe Tracking 4x4 Safaris

Giraffe Tracking 4×4 Safaris

★ 5.0 (12)
From USD 57.65

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

4 Day Addo to Karoo Safari

4 Day Addo to Karoo Safari

★ 5.0 (10)
From USD 1008.85

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Addo Elephant National Park Tours from Port Elizabeth

Addo Elephant National Park Tours from Port Elizabeth

★ 5.0 (9)
From USD 179.35

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Kragga Kamma Game Park from Port Elizabeth

Kragga Kamma Game Park from Port Elizabeth

★ 5.0 (9)
From USD 112.09

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Practical Tips

  • Addo Elephant National Park is malaria-free, making it a good option for travelers wanting a safari without antimalarial precautions.
  • Port Elizabeth has its own airport with domestic connections from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
  • Combine a Port Elizabeth stay with a drive along the Garden Route for a longer South African coastal itinerary.

FAQ

How far is Addo Elephant National Park from Port Elizabeth?
About an hour by car.

Is Addo malaria-free?
Yes, it’s one of South Africa’s malaria-free Big Five reserves.

What is Port Elizabeth known for?
Its beaches, the Route 67 art trail, and access to Addo Elephant National Park.