Port Elizabeth Sights and Landmarks Guide, South Africa

Port Elizabeth is a charming city that attracts numerous tourists from all parts of the world. To cater to the varied tastes of tourists there are many types of tours available for them. Some of the tours are cultural and sightseeing tours, wildlife tours and shopping tours.

Some attractions

Bayworld: This is Port Elizabeth’s most popular destination. It consists of a multiple places like the Oceanarium, a museum and a snake park. One of the most interesting activities performed over here is the Bottlenose dolphin show. This show is enjoyed by numerous tourists every year. There is an aquarium tank that features an array of sealift including sharks, turtles and rays. The snake park is a thrilling experience as you can see different types of reptiles in their natural looking enclosures. The PE Museum displays exhibits of sailing ships and ancient costumes. You can also see replicas of giant dinosaurs.

Market Square: The Market Square features several historic buildings which will remind you of the architectural heritage of Port Elizabeth. In the heart of the Market Square stands the City hall that was built in 1858. The Hall has an interesting Clock Tower on the top. Next is the Diaz Cross that memorializes the first European to set foot in Algao Bay, Bartholomew Diaz, in 1482. Next to the City Hall is the Prester John Memorial. It is dedicated to the Portuguese explorers. The Public Library of the city is yet another historic building that was used as a court house and was built in 1835. Right in front of the library is the marble statue of Queen Victoria that was unveiled in 1903. A few meters ahead is the Campanile, which contains the biggest carillon of bells in the country.

Donkin Reserve: In the center of the city stands a pyramid monument with a lighthouse. This was a public space that was decreed in eternity by Sir Donkin Rufane, the acting British Governor of Cape in 1820. In the loving memory of his wife Elizabeth who had died in India, he constructed a pyramid. The lighthouse was built much later in 1861. Presently the lighthouse houses the city’s Tourist Information center.

St George’s Park: This park is the city’s well known recreational center with scenic gardens. The garden covers an area of 73 hectares and has been there for about 150 years. The garden features the famous Cricket Club and Edwardian Pearson Conservatory.

Sports activities

Port Elizabeth is famous for its sports entertainment. Sports like bungee jumping, diving, surfing etc. One of the most thrilling adventures is watching the white Sharks. Bayworld near the beachfront gives a glimpse of the dolphins and seals movements. The beaches of Port Elizabeth offer various activities like kite surfing and wind surfing. Golfing is yet another lovely sport that you can indulge in over here. There are several golf courses that match the international standards.

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