Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Gqeberha combines relaxed beach life with history, public art and some of South Africa’s most accessible wildlife viewing.

• Addo Elephant National Park — Under an hour’s drive north, Addo is famous for its large elephant herds and also protects lions, buffalo and much more.
• Summerstrand and Hobie Beach — The city’s main beachfront has sandy bays, a promenade and water sports on sheltered Algoa Bay.
• Donkin Reserve — A hilltop park in the old town with a lighthouse, a stone pyramid memorial and views across the bay.
• Route 67 — A trail of public artworks and mosaics running up from the city centre to the Donkin Reserve.
• Red Location Museum — In New Brighton, this award-winning museum tells the story of the struggle against apartheid in the region.
• Algoa Bay boat trips — Cruises in the bay offer chances to see dolphins, seabirds and, in season, whales, with penguin colonies on the offshore islands.
• Sardinia Bay — A wide, wild beach and dune area on the city’s southern edge, popular for walks.

Gqeberha has a mild climate with rain spread fairly evenly through the year. Summers, from about November to March, are warm and sunny, ideal for beaches and water sports. Winters, from June to August, are cooler but often bright, and good for game viewing in Addo. The city is known as the “Windy City”, so expect breezy days in any season.

October to April is the best period for beach holidays, while the cooler months suit safaris and sightseeing. South African school holidays, especially in December and January, are the busiest times on the coast.

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, formerly Port Elizabeth International Airport, lies only a few kilometres south of the city centre, close to the beachfront suburbs. It is one of the most convenient city airports in South Africa.

Metered taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely used for the short trip into town or to Summerstrand. Many hotels offer shuttles, and car hire companies have desks at the terminal; a car is the easiest way to visit Addo and the wider Eastern Cape.

Most visitors stay near the sea, though there are good options inland too.

• Summerstrand — Beachfront hotels and guesthouses near the promenade; ideal for holidaymakers and families.
• Humewood — Close to the beaches and restaurants, with a mix of hotels and self-catering flats.
• Central and Richmond Hill — Historic streets near the Donkin Reserve with cafés and restaurants; suits travellers interested in heritage and food.
• Walmer — Leafy suburb near the airport with guesthouses; convenient for business trips.

• Money: Cards are widely accepted and cash machines are easy to find; keep a little cash for tips and small purchases.
• Getting around: Public transport is limited for visitors, so use ride-hailing apps, taxis or a hire car, especially for trips to Addo.
• Beach safety: Swim at lifeguarded beaches between the flags and watch for strong currents on open beaches.
• Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables out of sight in cars.
• Connectivity: Local SIM cards and eSIMs are easy to buy with your passport, and Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés.