Port Elizabeth

CityEastern Cape, South Africa

Port Elizabeth is a CITY in Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Port Elizabeth, affectionately known as 'The Friendly City,' is a coastal gem in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, the city offers a mix of outdoor adventures and urban charm. Key attractions include the Donkin Heritage Trail, which showcases colonial landmarks, and the Addo Elephant National Park, a short drive away. The city is also a hub for water sports, with Hobie Beach being a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Port Elizabeth's cultural scene thrives with local art galleries, museums, and the annual Splash Festival. Its warm hospitality and laid-back atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.

Best time to visit Port Elizabeth

The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities. Avoid peak holiday periods in December if you prefer fewer crowds.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Mostly clear
Temperature
14°
Feels like
14°
Humidity
91%
Wind
7 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 20-27°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Good for beach and safari

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

PLZ

Port Elizabeth International Airport

International

5 km away

Getting around

"Public transport includes buses and minibus taxis, but renting a car is recommended for flexibility. Metered taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also available."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

27

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty crime is the main concern; violent crime is less common in tourist areas.

Night safety

7/10

Petty crime is the main concern; violent crime is less common in tourist areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid displaying valuables. Use reputable taxi services and be cautious when using ATMs. Beach safety is important—swim only in designated areas."

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is generally safe to drink. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Malaria is not a concern in Port Elizabeth, but mosquito repellent is advised for comfort."

Culture

Local customs

"Tipping is customary (10-15% in restaurants). Greetings are important—a handshake is common. Respect local traditions, especially in townships, and always ask before taking photos of people."
EnglishAfrikaansXhosa

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Mid-range dining $10-15 per person.

Timezone

Africa/Johannesburg +02:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1.3 million

Area

251 km²

Government

Metropolitan Municipality

ISO code

PLZ

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: გებეჰა, ポートエリザベス, പോർട്ട് എലിസബത്ത്, Гцгебеха, พอร์ตเอลิซาเบท, पोर्ट एलिझाबेथ, 吉科巴哈, پورٹ الزبتھ, iBhayi, Гебеха, פורט אליזבת, Ibhayi, بورت إليزابيث, போர்ட் எலிசபெத், Port Elizabeth, Portus Elisabethae, Portelizabeta, Порт-Елізабет, කෙබේහා, Порт-Элізабет, Γκεμπέχα, Gqeberha, Порт Елизабет, ፖርት ኤልሳቤጥ, पोर्ट एलिज़ाबेथ, پورت الیزابت, Baye, Port-Elizabet, 포트엘리자베스, Պորտ Էլիզաբեթ, গকেবেরহা

BeachHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingWildlife