Port Elizabeth, situated in the Eastern Cape is South Africa’s
fifth largest city and one of the leading ports. The city is vibrant and
easy-going and national and international known as the “The Friendly City”.
The city was named in 1820 by the acting British Governor of
the Cape Colony, Sir Rufane Donkin, after his wife Elizabeth who died in 1818
in India. In 1820, the settlement was a small cluster of houses on the coast,
protected by Fort Frederick on top of a nearby hill. Since then the city has
grown to a city with a population of more than 700 000.
The good-natured environment, the warm atmosphere of its
lazy beaches and its warm, temperate climate all work together to make Port
Elizabeth an engaging tourist destination.
Port Elizabeth is ideally situated as base for coastal day
drives to beautiful places such as Bluewater Bay, Schoenmakerskop, Seaview, and
Van Staden’s River Mouth or inland to Groendal Wilderness Area, Addo Elephant
National Park or Uitenhage Nature Reserve.
There is no shortage of things to do in and around Port
Elizabeth. There is an abundance of historical sites, museums and monuments
dating back to the 15th century; you can visit the Oceanarium; climb the
Campanile; or snorkel and scuba in excellent diving spots.
There are also other sea-related sports - boating, yachting,
wind-surfing and angling. There are also interesting hiking trails through
historic parks and nature reserves.
Holiday accommodation is top-notch - from self-catering establishments
to luxurious hotels and lodges, at prices to suit everybody.
Do not forget the many shopping malls and several fine
restaurants. And, naturally the city has a good selection of wide, gently
sloping beaches that are safe for swimming.
Come experience the friendliness of the Friendly City!
