Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth (now officially Gqeberha) sits on Algoa Bay in South Africa's Eastern Cape. The city has long sandy beaches along the coast and a boardwalk connecting the main beach areas. The port is about 3km from the city centre. The Donkin Reserve, on a hill above the city, has good views and a lighthouse. Addo Elephant National Park, about 70km north, is the main excursion and home to over 600 elephants along with lions, buffalo, and other wildlife. Game drives run through the park. Closer to town, SAMREC (the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) rehabilitates African penguins and other seabirds. The food is South African: try potjiekos (a slow-cooked stew) or a braai (barbecue). Biltong (dried meat) is good to snack on. The South African Rand is the currency, and English is widely spoken.