Although Port Elizabeth is a large urban city in South Africa, its location makes it an ideal destination for encounters with marine life and land animals. Here are some of the best places to view wildlife around Port Elizabeth.
Grey Rhebok(Tjeerd Wiersma/Flickr/Wikimedia Commons)
1. Groendal Wilderness Area
Groendal Wilderness Area features the Kwazunga River and is located near the Groot Winterhoek Mountains. Use hiking trails to catch a glimpse of grey rhebok and baboons that live nearby.
Shamwari Game Reserve(Shamwari.Com)
2. Shamwari Game Reserve
The private reserve offers numerous activities including photo safaris and kids programs that encourage conservation. Sitting just 40 miles outside of Port Elizabeth, the reserve also offers overnight accommodations for travelers.
Courtesy of Ian White/Flickr.com
3. Van de Kemp’s Kloof Trail
This easy to traverse trail overlooks the Swartkops Valley and features native plants as well as South African birds. Bring binoculars to catch the best views of nests that may be off the trail.
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3. Kragga Kamma Game Park
Giraffes and zebras are just some of the animals that can be found in the Kragga Kamma Game Park. Activities include game drives and forest walks through the grounds. Cheetah Tours are an especially popular option for visitors.
(Jackhynes/Wikimedia Commons)
4. Holmeleigh Farmyard
This Port Elizabeth attraction gives visitors the chance to learn about farm animals that live in South Africa. Kids will especially enjoy interacting with goats and geese. A playground is also onsite.
Hobie Beach(Nick Roux/(WT-shared) NJR ZA at wts wikivoyage)
5. Hobie Beach
Hobie Beach welcomes tourists who want to experience water sports, but its marine life is another great reason to visit the area. Venture out to coral reefs to view an abundance of fish as well as octopuses in their native habitat.
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6. Aloe Hiking Trail
Two walking trails are on hand for visitors. Each one offers its own views of wildlife while offering outstanding views of Amsterdamhoek. Birdwatching is a popular choice as many varieties come to the area looking for food.
Blue Duiker Antelope(Attis1979/KCZooFan/Flickr/Wikimedia Commons)
7. Island Nature Reserve
Island Nature Reserve sits only a few miles from Port Elizabeth. The four trails present up-close experiences with the indigenous birds as well as vervet monkeys and blue duiker antelopes.
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8. Bluewater Bay
This destination sits to the north of Port Elizabeth and is often a stop before entering Addo Elephant National Park. Visit the coastline to catch a glimpse of dolphins. Boat tours offer the best views.
Cape Recife(Suzi-k/Wikimedia Commons)
9. Cape Recife Nature Reserve
The trail features a range of attractions including a lighthouse and dunes. Venture out for a glimpse of local species as they go about their daily activities.
10. Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve
Scuba diving is encouraged for visitors seeking a better look at marine life. Guests who are looking for a land experience can walk along the coastline. Water birds who inhabit the area can be easily seen along the route.
Gannet(Simon_sees/Russavia/Flickr/Wikimedia Commons)
11. Sacramento Trail
The Sacramento Trail runs across an expanse of undisturbed land. Guests can expect a beautiful landscape that features great ocean views. Bring your binoculars to catch the best views of dolphins as well as gannets that live off the coast.
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12. Algoa Bay Island Nature Reserve
Birdwatchers will appreciate a visit to Algoa Bay Island Nature Reserve. African penguins live year round in the area but travelers can also see the African oystercatcher and kelp gull.
13. African Dawn Bird And Wildlife Sanctuary
The African Dawn Bird And Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of animals including cheetahs and crowded cranes. Visitors can learn more information about the programs while viewing the current inhabitants. Volunteer opportunities are also available and encouraged for participants.
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14. Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve
Travelers can easily reach Van Stadens Nature Reserve, located only a short drive from Port Elizabeth. Birds including the African crowned eagle and lanner falcon can be found among the grounds.
15. Seaview Predator Park
This sancutary features self-driven safaris through the park. Visitors have the opportunity to view daily feedings or volunteer in the care of all inhabitants.
