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Port Elizabeth South Africa Cruise Port Guide
Location:
The ships dock at Port Elizabeth. The hilly town center can be reached via a short taxi ride. Walking to town is not recommended.
Printable map to take along.
Cruise calendar for this port.
Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers
Monthly Climate Averages for Port Elizabeth South Africa
Port Elizabeth is the third largest port and the fifth largest city in South Africa. The center is spread over steep hills overlooking Algoa Bay. Except for some interesting historical architecture, 21st-century Port Elizabeth, or PE as it is commonly known, has few attractions of note. To compensate, the town is surrounded by charming countryside; it bills itself as the Friendly City.
Port Elizabeth's sights are split between the areas of the old port, the sea front and the beaches.
Port Elizabeth Museum Complex The complex includes the Museum, the Oceanarium with trained dolphins, seals and penguins, a Snake Park and Tropical House. The museum's exhibits relate to the history of the town from the early settlement in 1820. A maritime hall is dedicated to shipwrecks and their treasures. The Tropical House is popular for its brightly colored birds. The Campanile This tower rises above the port area. It was built in 1920 as a monument to honor the early settlers.
Tours Excursions Transportation:
Visit the Donkin Heritage Trail: This self-guided trail covers 5 kilometers and includes 47 historical sites in the central part of the city. Highlights include the Donkin Reserve, a public park with a pyramid monument and a lighthouse offering panoramic views.
It pays to compare your cruise line excursions:
Tours etc. offered by GetYourGuide and by Viator.
Nearby Places:
The main attractions lie inland, including the game reserves. The Addo Elephant National Park is the most famous and popular destination for visitors to Port Elizabeth.
Shopping and Food
Currency:
The currency is the Rand (ZAR) Automated teller machines (ATMs), linked to all major international networks, are available throughout the country. It is best to use only ATMs that are inside a mall or other building. Always be careful to make sure no one is watching you enter your PIN, and be vigilant about scams (e.g. machines that seem to eat your card and won't give it back after you enter the PIN).
Most retail stores accept credit cards.
Communication:
South Africa has 11 official languages. Most people other than rural black Africans speak English, although not many as a first language. Afrikaans is also widely-spoken, especially by the white and colored population.
Opening Hours and Holidays:
Shopping hours Mon-Fri 0900-1700, Sat 0900-1400, although there is an increasing trend to open later and all weekend in major tourist spots. Shopping malls often stay open til' 9PM.
Holidays in South Africa
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