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Best Tourist Places to Visit in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Africa

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Africa

Port Elizabeth is one of the important cities of South Africa, situated on the southern coastline of the country, around 750 km east of Cape Town and 900 km southwest of the city of Durban. It is popularly called ‘The Friendly City’ for its healthy climate, upgraded infrastructure and winsome tourist attractions. Port Elizabeth is a blend of natural and manmade tourist attractions like enthralling beaches, museums and parks. Port Elizabeth is located at 33°57′29″ S 25°36′00″ E and spans over an area of 251.03 sq. km.

History of Port Elizabeth:

The recorded history of Port Elizabeth says the Portuguese explorer Bartholomew Dias was the first European to land in Algoa Bay or Port Elizabeth in 1488. The real history of Port Elizabeth begins with its foundation by the British settlers in the year 1820 as a town. Port Elizabeth was one of the places to host 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Getting Port Elizabeth:

The Port Elizabeth Airport is situated around 5 km away from the city centre, handling flights to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and many other South African cities.

By train, Port Elizabeth connects all the prominent South African cities like Cape Town, Kimberley, Pietermaritzburg, Durban, Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and East London.

Buses, taxis and rental cars are the options to get around Port Elizabeth and to hire car, visitors can contact CABS Car hire or First Car Rental.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Port Elizabeth:

Port Elizabeth is a city with many renowned museums showcasing the country’s culture and history such as Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum, Red Location Museum and No 7 Castle Hill Museum.

African Curios and Hides and Siyalcha Dolls are some purchasable items in Port Elizabeth. Some tourist favor restaurants in Port Elizabeth include:

Old Austria
Ginger Restaurant
Blue Waters Cafe
Fishmonger

Things to do in Port Elizabeth:

Scuba diving
Hiking
Beach exploration

What to see in Port Elizabeth?

Donkin Reserve:

The Donkin Reserve is one of the most famous historic tourist attractions in Port Elizabeth. It was built by the British army officer Sir Rufane Donkin in the memory of his wife Elizabeth in the beginning of the 19^th century.

South Africa Airforce Museum:

The South Africa Airforce Museum is a place where visitors can get the complete and interesting information on South African Air Force. It is open from 8AM to 3:30PM (Monday to Friday) and 10AM to 6PM (Sunday). No admission fee.

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum:

Situated at 1 Park Drive in the centre of Port Elizabeth, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum holds a great collection of South African artworks, mainly Eastern Cape artworks. It is allowed for visitors 9AM-5PM (Monday-Friday) and 2PM-5PM (Saturday and Sunday).

Kragga Kamma Game Park:

The Kragga Kamma Game Park is an amazing wildlife centre, home to a wide range of animals including White Rhino, Buffalo, Cheetah and Giraffes. Admission fee is R30.Worth a visit.

Beaches of Port Elizabeth:

Port Elizabeth encompasses many excellent beaches with opportunities of different water sport activities, including surfing and swimming. The most famous beaches are Humewood, Hobie, Kings and Wells Estate Beach.

List of other places of interest in Port Elizabeth includes:

Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Red Location Museum
Van Stadens Nature Reserve
South End Museum
St George’s Park
Seaview Lion Park
Donkin Heritage Trail
No 7 Castle Hill Museum
Prince Alfred’s Guard Memorial
The Cathedral Church of St Mary the Virgin
The Boardwalk Casino & Entertainment world
Kwantu Private Game Reserve
Shamwari Game Reserve

When to visit Port Elizabeth?

Throughout the year is best, especially from November to March is the ideal time to visit Port Elizabeth.

Where to stay in Port Elizabeth?

Being a world class tourist destination, Port Elizabeth houses dozens of top class accommodation centres like hotels, holiday rentals, BB and inns with amazing amenities. Here are some upgraded hotels in Port Elizabeth:

5th Avenue Beach House
The Boardwalk Hotel and Casino
Sir Roys At The Sea
African Pride Hacklewood Hill Country House
Protea Hotel Marine
Windermere Hotel
Courtyard Hotel Port Elizabeth
The Beach Hotel
Paxton Hotel
Town Lodge Port Elizabeth
Singa Lodge
Radisson Blu Hotel
Garden Court Kings Beach
Kings Beach Backpackers
City Lodge Hotel

Tourist Places to Visit in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, Africa

Tourist Places to Visit in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, Africa

Plettenberg Bay is a town situated in the municipality of Bitou in Western Cape Province of South Africa, geographically positioned at 34°03′ S 23°22′ E. It is located on the Garden Route of South Africa, around 200 km west of the city of Port Elizabeth and 600 km east of Cape Town, the parliamentary and legislative capital of South Africa.

Plettenberg Bay is one of the famous beach destinations in South Africa, drawing a large number of tourists during the summer months from all around the world. Plettenberg Bay generally experiences a temperate climate with less rainfall and sprawls over an area of 39.7 sq. km.

History of Plettenberg Bay:

The history of Plettenberg Bay goes back to Middle Stone Age, when it was possibly first inhabited, according the archeological findings found in excavations at Nelson Bay Cave and Matjies River Cave in nearby areas. Plettenberg Bay also came under the rule of many European powers in its long and grand history, including Dutch and British.

Connectivity to Plettenberg Bay:

George Airport is the nearest major airport to Plettenberg Bay, situated around 100 km east of the heart of Plettenberg Bay. This airport operates flights from/to Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.

The bus connection of Plettenberg Bay extends to all the major southern cities of the country, including Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, George and Knysna.

To move within the town, for airport travel and to reach tourist destinations, visitors can hire car from the local travel agency.

Food and Shopping in Plettenberg Bay:

Restaurants and shops are dozens in number in Plettenberg Bay, of which most are located on the beach line and in the downtown Plettenberg Bay. Mugg ‘n Bean is one of the recommended food corners in Plettenberg Bay.

What to do in Plettenberg Bay?

Scuba diving
Boating
Swimming
Day tours

What to see in Plettenberg Bay?

Robberg Nature and Marine Reserve:

Stretching a length of 4 km, the Robberg Nature and Marine Reserve is a peninsula, home to a large number of sea creatures. It is also renowned as a great whale watching spot on the South African coastline.

Goose Valley Golf Estate:

The Goose Valley Golf Estate is a nicely landscaped 18 hole golf course, situated at N2 Motoway Plett. This spectacular and well equipped golf course was designed by Gary Player.

Birds of Eden:

The Birds of Eden is the world’s largest encircled aviary, located at Monkeyland, around 16 km away from the centre of Plettenberg Bay. It is worth a trip.

Pro Dive:

Pro Dive is a top class scuba diving facility, housed at Beacon Isle Resort in Plettenberg Bay. This 5 Star National Geographic Dive Centre also offers diving training for beginners. It is open on all days of the week for visitors.

Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre:

The Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre is a great site to know on South African animal and bird species. It is situated on Forest Hall Road of The Crags in Plettenberg Bay. Guided tour is helpful to interact with wild animals.

Other interesting places in and around Plettenberg Bay include:

Radical Raptors
Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary
Plett Puzzle Park
Lawnwood Snake Park
Old Timber Shed
Elephant Sanctuary
Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary
Harkerville Mountain Bike Trails
Van Plettenberg Beacon
Plettenberg Bay Country Club
Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
St Peters Anglican Church
Adventure Land Water Slides and Play Park

When to visit Plettenberg Bay?

Plettenberg Bay is a year round destination, however, the tour of Plettenberg Bay can be experienced best between November and March.

Accommodation options in Plettenberg Bay:

Like most cities and towns of South Africa, Plettenberg Bay also owns a grand hospitality industry, with a mix of budget, mid range and star rated hotels and resorts with superior amenities. Some nice hotels in Plettenberg Bay include:

The Plettenberg Hotel
The Robberg Beach Lodge
Tsala Treetop Lodge
Beacon Island Resort
Grand Cafe and Rooms
NH Plettenberg Bay
Crescent Country House
Three Cities Plettenberg Park Hotel & Spa
Plett River Lodge
Lodge On The Bay
Whalesong Hotel & Hydro
Anlin Beach House
Keurbooms River Hotel
Aquavit Guest House
Bosavern Guest House

Tourist Places to Visit in Paarl, South Africa, Africa

Tourist Places to Visit in Paarl, South Africa, Africa

Paarl is a town belonging to the province of Western Cape in the southwestern part of the country, located around 60 km northwest of the Cape Town, one of the three capitals of South Africa, other two being Pretoria and Bloemfontein. It is Cape Winelands region’s largest town, well known for picturesque sites and agriculture activities, especially for fruit production.

Paarl had once gained international attention as Nelson Mandela got emancipation from Victor Verster Correctional Centre (Drakenstein Correctional Centre) in Paarl on 11 February 1990 during the last period of his 27 years of imprisonment. Paarl covers an area of 64.61 sq. km, while its geographical coordinates are 33°43′27″ S 18°57′21″ E.

History of Paarl:

Paarl is considered as the Republic of South Africa’s 3^rd oldest European settlement, following Cape Town and Stellenbosch. Archeological evidences found in and around Paarl have shown that Khoikhoi and San people were the original inhabitants of Paarl.

How to get Paarl?

Paarl is catered by Cape Town International Airport, situated around 60 km away. This airport covers many global destinations, including Mauritius, London, Singapore, Istanbul, Durban, and Johannesburg. Buses regularly ply between Paarl and the airport and visitors can also use airport taxi or rental car for better airport travel. Due to its position near Cape Town, Paarl has got good connectivity by bus to all around the country.

Food and Shopping in Paarl:

Afrikaans Language Museum is a renowned cultural centre in Paarl, showcasing the importance of Afrikaans Language.

Some typical shopping options in Paarl include:

Ikhaya
Red Hot Glass Studio
Fairview Cheese

Here are some mid-range restaurants in Paarl:

Terra Mare Restaurant
De Leeuwen Jagt Restaurant
Taal Monument Restaurant

Things to do in Paarl:

Visiting nature reserves and museums
Walking
Traditional shopping

What to see in Paarl?

Afrikaans Language Museum:

The Afrikaans Language Museum is concentrated on exploring the origin of the Afrikaans language with different multimedia exhibitions. It is open from 9AM-4PM (Monday-Friday) and entrance fee is R10 adults.

Taalmonument:

Taalmonument is a distinct monument featuring a 57 meter column and many other small columns, domes and walls that symbolize the Afrikaans language and the contribution of European and other native languages to it. Admission fee is R10.

Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve:

The Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve is highlighted by huge rounded granite rock structures. The reserve is situated on the Jan Phillips Mountain Drive and is open for visitors from 7AM-6PM every day.

Die Vonds Snake Park:

Located at 104 Main Street Wellington, the Die Vonds Snake Park is home to a wide range of tortoises, snakes, monitors and many other bird and animal species. It is allowed for visitors from 9:30AM-5:30PM (Monday-Saturday).

Strooidak Church:

Being South Africa’s one of the oldest and historic churches, the Strooidak Church is one of the identities of Paarl. It is frequented by both devotees and tourists year round.

List of other places of interest in and around Paarl includes:

Paarl Bird Sanctuary
S. Smit & Co
The Paarl Rock
Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate
Groot Drakenstein Prison
Paarl Golf Club
De Poort Heritage Village
Polo Club

When to visit Paarl?

Probably from October to May is the best time to visit Paarl, when the weather remains dry and supportive for outdoor activities.

Where to stay in Paarl?

Paarl is a city with numerous top class hotels that are spread up all around the city with tourist favor facilities like TV, air conditioning, swimming pool, food on request and vehicle arrangement services. Most hotels in the city offer advance booking facility for tourists’ convenience. The prominent hotels in Paarl include:

Perle-du-Cap Private Suite Estate
De Leeuwenhof Hotel
Cascade Manor
Ridgeback House
Goedemoed Country Inn
Zomerlust Guesthouse
Grande Roche Hotel
Sante Hotel, Resort & Spa
De Wingerd Wijnland Lodge
Ambiance Suites
Pontac Manor Hotel
De Oude Paarl Boutique Hotel
Paarl Boutique Hotel
Palmiet Valley Wine Estate & Boutique Hotel
The Light House Boutique Suites

Places to Visit in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, South Africa, Africa

Places to Visit in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, South Africa, Africa

Nelspruit is a South African city, functioning as the capital of the Mpumalanga province. It is situated on the Crocodile River in the northeastern part of the country, around 350 km east of the country’s largest city, Johannesburg. Nelspruit is mainly famous as an agricultural centre of northeastern South Africa, well known for the productions of oranges, mangoes and bananas. Nelspruit is also renowned as a tourist destination, especially for its casino, Emnotweni Casino Complex and annual agricultural shows, including the Lowveld Agri show and the Innibos Arts festival. Kruger National Park is a gateway to the large and popular nature reserve, Kruger National Park.

History of Nelspruit:

The documented history of Nelspruit is focused on the three brothers of the Nel family were the founder of Nelspruit in 1895 who initially involved themselves in grazing their cattle around what is today’s Nelspruit. For a short period, Nelspruit had once served as the administrative centre of the South African Republic during the Boer War.

How to reach Nelspruit?

The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is the airport serving Nelspruit with scheduled flights from and to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Livingstone and Vilankulo. The distance of 25 km from the airport to the city centre of Nelspruit can be crossed by an airport taxi or bus or rental car.

Nelspruit can be reached by train from Johannesburg, Komatipoort, Witbank and Pretoria. Buses are the primary option to get around Nelspruit and visitors can refer First Car Rental for comfort and convenient local travel.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Nelspruit:

Nelspruit is well known for traditional events like the Lowveld Agri show, the Innibos Arts festival and the Lowveld show. Nelspruit houses three large shopping malls, including Riverside Mall.

List of the prominent restaurants in Nelspruit include:

Orange Restaurant
Saffron Restaurant
Edelweiss Restaurant
The Farm Stall Coffee Shop

What to do in Nelspruit?

Visiting casino
Shopping
Visiting nearby national park

What to see in Nelspruit?

Mbombela Stadium:

The Mbombela Stadium is one of the landmark sites of Nelspruit, built for 2010 FIFA World Cup matches. It is currently used for both rugby and soccer matches and has a capacity of 43,500 spectators.

Kruger National Park:

Situated around 30 km east of Nelspruit, the Kruger National Park spans over an area of 19,633 square kilometers, making it Africa’s one of the largest game reserves. Covering around 19,633 square kilometers area, the park is rich in floral and faunal species, and also houses dozens of accommodation options.

Lowveld National Botanical Gardens:

The Lowveld National Botanical Gardens is situated on the road leading to Emnotweni Casino complex, housing diverse attractions like bridges, waterfalls and loop walks. Entry is with small fee.

Emnotweni Casino Complex:

The Emnotweni Casino complex is the most famous tourist attraction within Nelspruit, featuring different facilities like shops, food courts and options for different games in addition to casino.

Riverside Mall:

The Riverside Mall is a huge shopping mall in Nelspruit, generally open from 9AM-6PM. This large entertainment centre is famous among both locals and visitors for its striking interior and exterior designs, branded shopping outlets, restaurants and recreational options.

Other places of interest in Nelspruit:

Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Eden Sanctuary
Sudwala Caves
Mankele Mountain BIke Park
Ilanga Mall
Blue Moon
Alkmaar Raceway

Best time to visit Nelspruit:

Nelspruit experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The ideal time to visit Nelspruit is from April to August.

Where to stay in Nelspruit?

There are plenty of tourist favor hotels in Nelspruit with all sorts of modernized amenities to provide utmost comfort to visitors coming to the city year round. Some upgraded hotels in Nelspruit are as follows: