Port Elizabeth: Sandboarding with Short Boat Trip

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor activity that combines a splash of adrenaline with stunning landscapes, the sandboarding tour at Alexandria Dune field near Port Elizabeth is worth considering. Offered by Sundays River Adventures, this experience packs a punch for adventure lovers and curious travelers alike.

It’s not just about sliding down dunes — it’s about enjoying the peaceful river views, learning a new skill, and soaking in some of South Africa’s most impressive natural scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the combination of a boat trip and sandboarding offers a relaxed, multi-layered experience. Second, the guides’ enthusiasm and professionalism shine through, making it especially appealing for those new to sandboarding. That said, the activity isn’t suited for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues.

Perfect for active travelers, families, or anyone eager to try something different, this tour provides excellent value at an accessible price point.

One potential consideration is the timing and physical demands — while the tour is beginner-friendly, it still requires comfortable footwear and a readiness to be outdoors in the sun. But with a flexible 2 or 3-hour option, you can tailor the experience to your comfort level. Overall, if you’re after an authentic, fun-filled day outside of the usual sightseeing, this tour has a lot to offer.

This experience made our article of We Rank Gqeberha’s 16 Top Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• Unique combination of a boat cruise and sandboarding adventure.
• Accessible for beginners, with guided lessons and options for sitting or belly-boarding.
• Impressive scenery of the Alexandria Dune field and Sundays River.
• Affordable price offering good value for the experience.
• Professional guides are passionate and knowledgeable, enhancing the fun.
• Flexible duration options (2 or 3 hours) for different schedules and energy levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic, Well-Rounded Adventure

We loved the way this tour mixes scenic relaxation with adrenaline-pumping activity. Traveling from the lively town of Port Elizabeth, you’ll head out to the picturesque Sundays River, which sets the stage for a peaceful boat ride. This short cruise offers lovely views of the river, providing a perfect backdrop before the real fun begins at the dunes. It’s a quiet, scenic moment that helps you settle in and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Once at the Alexandria Dune field, the real excitement kicks in. This is the largest dune field in South Africa, known for its massive, sweeping sand formations that stretch as far as the eye can see. Sandboarding here is accessible for all skill levels, from absolute beginners to those with some experience. The guides are great at making everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re trying to stand up or prefer a sit-down ride. According to many reviews, “very fun activity, suitable for all levels” and “you’ll love the views and the guides’ passion.”

The lesson portion is well-structured. Guides show you how to master standing on the board, but if you’re hesitant, you can opt for a sit-down or belly-boarding approach, which still offers plenty of fun and a great sense of accomplishment. The dunes are so impressive — towering, undulating, and constantly changing with the wind — that even just watching others surf down makes for exciting viewing.

The Boat Ride: Scenic and Relaxing

The boat component is a simple yet important part of the experience. It’s a short trip across the Sundays River, giving you a chance to enjoy some serenity and take in the sweeping views of the landscape. Many travelers have remarked on how peaceful and beautiful the river cruise is, and how it offers a perfect transition from land to dune.

Travelers appreciate that the boat ride is included in the price, adding good value to the overall experience. It’s a gentle, scenic cruise and a welcome break from the physical activity, especially for those who prefer a slower pace. The boat ride also helps to set apart this tour from more typical land-based activities, making it feel more special and memorable.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For just $37 per person, the package offers all necessary sandboarding equipment — both stand-up and flat boards — along with lessons tailored to your comfort level. This means you don’t need to bring your own gear or worry about technical details. The guides are quite experienced and enthusiastic, making the learning process accessible and fun.

However, travelers should consider bringing comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain, sunglasses, a sunhat, and sun protection. Since the tour is outdoors, staying protected from the sun is essential. It’s also wise to bring food and drinks, especially if you plan to stay longer or combine the tour with other activities.

The tour does not include food or photography equipment, so if you’d like to snap photos, bring a camera or smartphone with you. Keep in mind that luggage or large bags are not allowed, mainly for safety reasons and ease of movement.

Meeting and Ending the Tour

The tour begins at the A Taste of Africa Restaurant in Port Elizabeth. It’s a short 200-meter walk from the restaurant to the boat, making the meeting very convenient. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes early, giving enough time to check in, meet the guides, and settle in.

It ends back at the original meeting point, making it a straightforward, hassle-free outing. This simplicity is appreciated, especially if you’re combining it with other activities or exploring the city afterward.

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Practical Details and Considerations

This experience is conducted in English, which is helpful for clarity and safety instructions. Since it’s designed to be beginner-friendly, most people will find it accessible — but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals with mobility issues.

The flexible duration options allow you to choose a 2-hour or 3-hour tour, depending on how much time you want to spend sliding down dunes and enjoying the river scenery. The longer option provides extra time to practice and explore at a relaxed pace.

Cancellation is straightforward — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

What Reviewers Say

The overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 50 reviews speaks volumes about the quality of this tour. Travelers frequently highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the guides, describing them as “fantastic” and “full of passion.” Many mention the stunning landscape, with comments like “beautiful scenery” and “impressive dunes,” which truly set this experience apart.

One traveler said, “Richtig cool, wir hatten sehr viel Spaß! Sehr zu empfehlen,” which translates to “Really cool, we had a lot of fun! Highly recommended.” Others highlighted the accessibility of the activity, noting it’s “suitable for all levels,” making it clear that even beginners can enjoy it without worry.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This sandboarding and boat trip combo offers a genuinely fun, scenic, and affordable way to experience South Africa’s natural beauty. It’s particularly well-suited for those who love outdoor activities, want a break from traditional sightseeing, or are eager to try something new. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning landscape make it a memorable outing for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for adventure.

If you’re seeking a light-hearted, active experience that combines scenic views with the thrill of sliding down dunes, this tour hits the mark. It’s not overly commercialized, and the inclusion of the boat cruise adds an extra dimension of serenity and visual delight. Just remember to prepare for some sun exposure, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early to start your adventure on the right foot.

In all, this tour offers great value for the price, and the overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect its reputation as a highlight for many travelers visiting Port Elizabeth.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is the sandboarding activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all skill levels. Guides provide lessons, and you can opt for sitting or belly-boarding if standing feels daunting.

What is included in the price?
All sandboarding equipment, lesson from the guide, and the short boat trip across the river are included.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose between a 2-hour or 3-hour tour, depending on how much time you’d like to spend sliding and exploring.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at the A Taste of Africa Restaurant in Port Elizabeth, about 200 meters from the starting point, with instructions to arrive 30 minutes early.

Is food and drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring your own.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Photos are not included in the package, but you may want to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenery and fun moments.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Yes, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sun protection, and snacks or drinks if desired.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This experience offers an authentic taste of outdoor adventure in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply craving a scenic escape, the sandboarding tour at Alexandria Dune field hits just the right note.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby