Solo Female Travel in Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth, fondly known as "The Friendly City," is a vibrant coastal city situated at the eastern cape of South Africa. Known for its sun-soaked beaches like Hobie Beach and King's Beach, it offers travellers a perfect blend of leisure, adventure, and wildlife encounters. It is home to the insightful Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum and the richly biodiverse Donkin Heritage Trail. As the gateway to the renowned Garden Route, it also provides easy access to an incredibly scenic stretch of the southeastern coast of South Africa. Wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to the city for its close proximity to impressive game reserves such as Shamwari and Addo Elephant National Park, making Port Elizabeth a prized destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Travel rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

Travel index

Safety:Moderate

Port Elizabeth, also known as the friendly city, is relatively safe during the day, particularly in well-traveled areas. However, precautions should be taken, especially during the night. As in many places, petty theft and muggings can occur particularly in quiet or isolated areas. It is advisable to stay connected with local information and act accordingly. Stick to busy and well-lit areas, avoid traveling alone at night, and always be aware of your belongings and surroundings.

Transport:Moderate

Getting around Port Elizabeth may present a medium level of difficulty. The city is relatively small, and main attractions are in close proximity; however, there may be some challenges like lack of well-structured public transportation systems. Depending on your level of comfort and familiarity with navigating foreign cities, you may want to consider hiring a local guide or using taxis in lieu of figuring out local bus routes.

Things to do:Interesting

Port Elizabeth, known as the 'Friendly City', has a variety of activities. The city offers stunning beaches for relaxation and water sports, safari tours for wildlife spotting, and historical sites such as the Donkin Heritage Trail. It boasts an array of exquisite cuisines in local restaurants. However, its nightlife is a bit quiet which might not appeal to everyone.

Food:Above average

Port Elizabeth offers a satisfyingly diverse range of food options. From authentic South African cuisine that will entice you with its unforgettable flavors, to offerings from Indian, Italian, and sea food dishes, there's plenty to explore for a foodie. While the street food can be hit or miss, the local food markets serve fresh and delicious homegrown fare. Overall, you're likely to find something that suits your palate, though more adventurous food seekers may wish for more.

Budget:Moderate

Port Elizabeth offers a fairly budget-friendly travel experience. Accommodation, eating out, and public transportation costs are relatively low compared to Western countries. However, certain activities like safaris can be quite expensive. Overall, careful budgeting and planning can allow for a cost-effective trip.

Is Port Elizabeth worth visiting?

Explore South Africa