The 11 Top Tours & Things To Do In Port Elizabeth: Which Is Best?

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The 11 Best Tours & Things To Do in Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth, known locally as Gqeberha, is a city with a surprising variety of experiences that go beyond its beaches. It’s a place where wildlife safaris, marine adventures, and cultural explorations all find a comfortable home.

Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic eager to see elephants and lions, a marine life enthusiast wishing to spot whales and penguins, or someone simply looking to relax with a good local meal, Port Elizabeth offers options that won’t disappoint.

Our favorite? The Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise—a slow-paced, eco-friendly adventure that gets you up close to the ocean’s giants, with a conservationist guide sharing insights along the way.

If you’re pressed for time, the Addo Elephant National Park safaris stand out for their chance to see Africa’s Big 7. For a taste of local flavor, the Addo safari with traditional BBQ combines wildlife with South African cuisine.

For those traveling with families or cruise ship schedules, options like the shore excursions make wildlife viewing accessible and memorable without fuss. With this variety, Port Elizabeth clearly deserves a spot on your South African itinerary.

Quick Overview

Our list includes marine wildlife cruises (Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise) that allow you to see whales, dolphins, and penguins from the comfort of smaller, eco-friendly boats.

For big game safaris, options range from full-day adventures (Addo Elephant National Park) that include game drives and lunches, to shorter morning safaris (Addo Elephant 5 hour Morning Safari) perfect for tight schedules.

Family-friendly options and cruise shore excursions (Port Elizabeth Shore Excursion) round out the list, making sure there’s something for all. Now, let’s dive into the details.

1. Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise

This 4-hour marine wildlife cruise is a favorite for anyone wanting a relaxed, eco-conscious way to see Algoa Bay’s marine life. Led by conservationist guides, the tour takes smaller groups on twin-engine catamarans, giving you plenty of time to ask questions and take photos.

From June to December, humpback whales pass through as part of their migration, and year-round, Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins are abundant. Endangered African penguins also make a charming appearance on St. Croix Island.

The boat’s slow pace and small size mean you’re more likely to get close-up views and learn about marine conservation efforts in the area. Reviewers love the knowledgeable crew and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and penguins all in one trip.

Bottom line: If marine wildlife interests you and you want a personal, eco-friendly experience, this cruise offers a rare chance to enjoy Algoa Bay’s natural spectacle.

2. Addo Elephant National Park All Inclusive Full-Day Safari

For around $148, this 9-hour full-day safari immerses you in Addo’s incredible biodiversity. The trip covers the Big 7—including elephants, lion, rhino, and even the great white shark and southern right whales—making it a standout. With all fees included, plus hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s designed for ease and value.

Your guide will share insights about the park’s unique ecosystem, which is Malaria-free and home to over 700 elephants. The small group size ensures your experience is intimate and personalized.

Highlights include spotting herds of elephants, lions lurking in the bushes, and possibly even seeing a rhino. Guests often comment on the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the sightings.

Bottom line: This tour suits wildlife lovers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free day in a park renowned for its dense elephant populations and big game.

3. Addo Elephant Full Day Safari with a Traditional South African Braai (BBQ) Lunch

For about $172, this full-day tour combines two game drives with a delicious South African braai lunch. Starting with morning and ending in the late afternoon, the small group is guided by experienced rangers who aim to find the Big 5, along with cheetahs and hyenas. The included lunch, beverages, and snacks make it a comfortable and immersive experience.

Reviewers highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and the quality of the sightings, especially elephants near waterholes and lions in the distance.

The tour is perfect for travelers wanting a more in-depth look at Addo’s wildlife, with flexible game drives that maximize your chances of seeing elusive animals.

Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a full, relaxed day in the park with authentic South African food to top it off.

4. Addo Elephant National Park Full Day Safari

This 9-hour safari is designed for travelers who prefer a comprehensive experience. Traveling in a small group with expert guides, you’ll explore the park’s diverse landscapes and encounter elephants, lions, and rhinos.

The tour includes a traditional braai lunch and all entrance fees, removing the guesswork and extra costs. Guests often mention the knowledgeable guide, the good animal sightings, and the convenience of door-to-door transfers.

It’s a popular pick for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded safari experience without the hassle of self-driving.

Bottom line: This tour offers tremendous value for wildlife enthusiasts who want to maximize their time and sightings in Addo.

5. Addo Elephant Park Safari & Shore Excursion from Port Elizabeth

Perfect for cruise passengers, this 8-hour guided tour combines convenience with wildlife discovery. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll visit the Addo Elephant National Park with a guide providing engaging commentary. Expect good chances to see elephants, buffalo, and maybe even a lion or two. Included is a light picnic lunch and round-trip pickup from the port.

Reviewers appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to see Africa’s Big 5 in a malaria-free environment. It’s a great way to fit a safari into a busy cruise schedule.

Bottom line: Best suited for cruise travelers wanting a straightforward, enjoyable wildlife encounter with minimal planning.

6. Addo Elephant 5 Hour Morning Safari

This shorter, 5-hour morning safari is perfect if your schedule is tight but you still want to see elephants and other big game. Starting at 8:30 am, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, a picnic brunch, and a focus on the park’s most active animals in the morning. Guests rave about the close-up elephant sightings and the knowledgeable guides.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick but rich safari experience without sacrificing quality. The small group size makes for a more personalized outing.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for those seeking a morning adventure with good sightings and local expertise.

7. Addo Elephant National Park from Port Elizabeth – FD01

This full-day tour takes you into the park with a focus on wildlife observation and education. With expert guides, you’ll see elephants, lions, zebras, and more. The itinerary includes 2-way transfers, all park entry fees, and a delicious lunch.

Visitors praise the guide’s knowledge and the park’s abundant animals, especially the elephants and antelope. The tour is well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts who want a guided experience without the hassle of self-drive.

Bottom line: A reliable, well-organized option for travelers wanting a comprehensive day in Addo.

8. Port Elizabeth Shore Excursion: Addo Elephant Full Day Safari & Braai Lunch

For $172, this shore excursion offers a full day of game viewing combined with South African barbecue (braai). Travel in a small group, with pickups from the cruise terminal included, making it hassle-free. The tour emphasizes seeing Africa’s Big 5, along with the chance for close-up elephant sightings. Reviewers love the authentic South African barbecue and the personalized attention from guides.

The park’s dune landscapes and wildlife make this an ideal outing for cruise passengers wanting a rich safari experience in a limited timeframe.

Bottom line: Perfect for cruise visitors wanting convenience, good wildlife sightings, and local cuisine.

9. Addo Elephant National Park Tour – Full day of Wildlife Wonders

This 7-hour tour is all about close encounters with Africa’s giants in a Malaria-free environment. The guided safari includes lunch and covers the Big 5, with a focus on elephants and rhinos. Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and the ease of logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off.

It’s a flexible option suited for travelers wanting a balanced mix of wildlife viewing and comfort. The park’s varied landscapes make each drive different, keeping the experience fresh.

Bottom line: Best for wildlife lovers who want a complete but manageable safari experience with expert guidance.

10. One-Way Hop-on Hop-off Bus from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town

This unique 1-to-365-day bus pass offers the freedom to explore South Africa at your own pace. Travel comfortably with a semi-luxury bus, hopping at over 200 locations between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Ideal for flexible travelers, it allows you to stop at scenic spots like Jeffreys Bay and Tsitsikamma National Park along the way.

Reviews mention the reliability and convenience of door-to-door service, making it a practical choice for those who prefer self-guided adventure.

Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers who want flexibility and a scenic route between two iconic cities.

11. Intro To Surfing at Jeffrey’s Bay

If trying surfing is on your bucket list, this 2-hour beginner lesson at Jeffrey’s Bay is a must. With top-quality boards and wetsuits provided, you’ll learn the basics from a friendly instructor in a small group. Perfect for first-timers, the lesson emphasizes fun over competition and offers plenty of time to ask questions.

Reviewers highlight how confident they felt riding their first waves after just one session. The location is famous for its surf breaks, making it an ideal setting to learn.

Bottom line: An excellent intro for beginners looking to experience South Africa’s renowned surf culture without prior experience.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

Choosing between these options depends on your schedule, interests, and budget. If marine wildlife captivates you, the Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise (link) offers a relaxed, eco-conscious way to see the ocean’s giants. For big game safaris, the Addo full-day safaris (link) are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want comprehensive, guided encounters with the Big 5.

Budget travelers might prefer shorter safaris like the Addo Elephant 5 hour Morning Safari (link), perfect for a quick yet rich experience.

Cruise passengers should consider the shore excursions (link) for their simplicity and convenience, while independent travelers can enjoy self-guided options like the Hop-on Hop-off bus (link) or intro surfing lessons (link). Think about your interests—wildlife, marine life, culture, or adventure—and your available time.

Final Thoughts

Port Elizabeth offers a broad spectrum of tours and activities, from marine wildlife cruises to intensive safaris, and even self-guided travel options. For wildlife lovers, the Addo safaris are a clear standout, especially the full-day safaris that combine sightings with great value.

For those eager to see the ocean’s creatures, the Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise promises memorable moments. And if you’re visiting via cruise, the shore excursions are hard to beat for convenience and quality.

No matter your style, booking early is wise—popular tours tend to fill up, especially in peak season. With this curated list, you’re well on your way to making the most of your time in Port Elizabeth. Whether you’re chasing elephants, whales, or waves, there’s a perfect experience just waiting for you.