GQEBERHA & MAKHANA
Gqeberha and Makhanda form the historical and coastal heart of the Eastern Cape. This region is a unique blend of vibrant urban life, stunning ocean views, and profound academic and settler heritage.
It is a land where South Africa’s history is etched in monuments and architecture. It offers a gateway to wildlife, golden beaches, and the lively cultural and arts scene of its two principal cities.
Most Popular Attractions
Gqeberha City Core & Seaside:
Donkin Reserve: A historical pyramid and lighthouse offering panoramic views. It is the start/end of the Donkin Heritage Trail, a walking route linking 51 places of historical interest.
The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment Complex: A seaside complex with shops, restaurants, a casino, and an outdoor amphitheater.
Route 67: An art and heritage route of 67 public art pieces celebrating the years Nelson Mandela devoted to public life.
Port Elizabeth Harbour: A bustling working port with scenic views and a maritime atmosphere.
The Campanile: A 52-meter high bell tower built in 1923 to commemorate the 1820 Settlers.
St George’s Park: The oldest park in the city, home to the St George’s Park Cricket Ground, one of the oldest test cricket venues in the world.
South End Museum: Dedicated to the forced removals and community life of the former mixed-race suburb of South End during the Apartheid era.
Kings Beach: A popular, long stretch of golden sand, known for its water sports and family-friendly facilities.
Shark Rock Pier (Hobie Beach): A scenic spot for walks and viewing dolphins and whales during the season.
Humewood: A charming coastal suburb known for its beachfront promenade and the Humewood Golf Club, one of the few true links courses in South Africa.
Makhanda Heritage & Academic Sites:
Albany Museum Complex: A collection of seven different museums, including the Natural Sciences Museum and the History Museum, documenting the region’s natural and social history.
Rhodes University: The historic and architecturally beautiful campus that forms the heart of the city and its academic identity.
Makhanda Cathedral (St Michael and St George): A prominent Anglican cathedral famous for its impressive spire, the tallest in the region.
Settlers Monument: A national monument and convention center dedicated to the 1820 Settlers, host to the annual National Arts Festival.
Observatory Museum: Features a fully restored 19th-century camera obscura and a history of the region’s scientific endeavors.
Old Gaol (Prison): A historic prison complex, now a national monument, offering insight into the region’s judicial past.
Fort Selwyn: A small, well-preserved fort on Gunfire Hill, offering excellent views of the city.
Drostdy Gate: A grand entrance to the original Drostdy (magistrate’s residence) area, now part of Rhodes University.
Surrounding Region & Nature:
Addo Elephant National Park (Close to Gqeberha): A premier “Big 7” national park, famous for its dense population of elephants.
Kariega Game Reserve (Close to Makhanda): A well-known private game reserve offering luxury safari experiences and Big 5 sightings.
Kragga Kamma Game Park (Close to Gqeberha): A smaller, easily accessible wildlife reserve known for its white rhinos and cheetahs.
Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve (Near Gqeberha): A beautiful reserve known for its diverse fynbos and scenic trails.
Port Alfred (Midway): A charming coastal town on the Kowie River, popular for boating and fishing.
Activities & Experiences
Go on a Big 7 Safari in Addo Elephant National Park: Drive or take a guided tour through South Africa’s third-largest national park, famous for having the “Big 7” (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, plus great white shark and southern right whale).
Walk the Donkin Heritage Trail in Gqeberha: Follow the footsteps of the city’s early settlers on this 5km trail, linking 51 places of historical interest, including the iconic lighthouse and pyramid.
Explore the Kowie River by Boat in Port Alfred: Take a scenic river cruise or rent a canoe to explore the beautiful Kowie River, which offers fantastic birdwatching and views of the coastal forests.
Attend the National Arts Festival in Makhanda: If visiting in late June/early July, immerse yourself in one of the world’s largest and most diverse arts festivals, featuring theatre, music, dance, and visual arts.
Hike the Alexandria Hiking Trail (Woody Cape Section): Challenge yourself on this two-day slackpacking trail through coastal forests and massive, protected dune fields, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Visit the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB) in Makhanda: A fascinating stop for those interested in aquatic science and marine conservation, often featuring public exhibits.
Dive or Snorkel in the Sardinia Bay Marine Protected Area (Gqeberha): Explore the rich underwater life, including reefs, kelp forests, and various fish species, in this protected coastal area.
Experience a Townships Tour and Local Cuisine: Take a guided tour of the city’s vibrant townships to learn about the history of the anti-apartheid struggle and enjoy an authentic South African shisa nyama (barbecue) meal.
Explore Makhanda’s Historic Cathedrals and Churches: Wander through the “City of Saints” and admire the impressive architecture of St. Michael and St. George Cathedral and other historical places of worship.
Kayak or Paddleboard on the Kromme River (St Francis Bay): Take a short drive to the scenic St Francis Bay area and enjoy water activities on the tranquil Kromme River.
Visit the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum (Gqeberha): View a diverse collection of South African, British, and international art, with a focus on Eastern Cape artists.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for the Region: To effectively link Gqeberha, Makhanda (about 130 km apart), the surrounding coastal towns, and Addo National Park, a rental car is highly recommended. Roads are generally well-maintained, but be mindful of occasional potholes on secondary roads.
Gqeberha Public Transport: The city has a limited public bus system (Algoa Bus) but is not widely used by tourists. Minibus Taxis are the most common form of public transport for locals; while cheap, they follow set, non-marked routes and can be confusing for visitors. Ride-sharing apps (like Uber/Bolt) and metered taxis are the safest and most reliable options within the city.
Parking in Makhanda: Makhanda is very walkable, but parking near the central High Street can be busy, especially during university terms and the National Arts Festival. Paid, street-side parking is usually available.
From the Airport: Gqeberha’s Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) is very close to the city center. A ride-sharing service or pre-booked shuttle/taxi is the quickest way to your accommodation. There is no rail link.
Safety & Security: As with any South African city, be situationally aware. Do not walk alone at night, especially in the city centers. Keep valuables out of sight, and secure your vehicle. It is generally advised to use ride-sharing or taxis after dark.
“The Windy City”: Gqeberha is famously known as ‘The Windy City’ due to its coastal breezes. Pack layers, even in summer, as the wind can make it feel cooler.
Loadshedding (Power Outages): South Africa experiences scheduled power outages (known as “loadshedding”). Check the daily schedule for the region. Many guesthouses and restaurants have generators, but it’s wise to carry a power bank and headlamp.
Dining Times: South Africans typically dine earlier than in Spain. Lunch is usually between 1 PM and 2 PM, and dinner often starts between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM. Bookings are often necessary for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
Makhanda – A City of Saints and Scholars: Makhanda is a historic university town (Rhodes University). Its atmosphere is very different from the coastal city of Gqeberha, being more academic and focused on history and the arts. Visit its many museums and art galleries.
Hidden Gems:
- The Campanile Memorial: Climb the 204 steps of this tower in Gqeberha for an excellent view of the city and port.
- Route 67 Public Art: A beautiful collection of 67 public art pieces celebrating the years Nelson Mandela devoted to public life, winding through the city center.
- Settlers National Monument (Makhanda): A grand monument commemorating the 1820 British Settlers, which also serves as a major venue during the Arts Festival.
- Richmond Hill (Gqeberha): A trendy area known for its collection of boutique shops, cozy cafés, and excellent restaurants.
Top Restaurants
Royal Delhi Restaurant [$10-$20] – A long-standing, family-run restaurant in Richmond Hill, famous for serving what many consider the best, authentic Indian curry in Gqeberha for over three decades.
Ntomb’OmXhosa Lounge [$10-$20] – Located just outside Makhanda, this venue offers an authentic taste of traditional African Xhosa cuisine, including dishes like Umcabosi and Ulusu (tripe), with optional traditional entertainment.
The Boma [$15-$25] – A country restaurant in the Seaview area of Gqeberha with a distinctly African look and feel, known for its hearty country food and atmosphere.
The Coachman on the Bay [$15-$30] – A family-owned and run pioneer of the Gqeberha seafood scene, serving fresh fish, juicy steaks, and Greek dishes with a warm, hands-on ambiance right on the bay.
Something Good Roadhouse [$10-$20] – A classic, must-visit American diner-style roadhouse on the beachfront in Summerstrand, famous for its juicy burgers, crispy fried chicken, and decadent milkshakes.
LaVish Exclusive [$10-$20] – A Gqeberha spot specializing in African home-inspired dishes such as Ulusu (trotters), tripe, and Idombolo (dumplings), reflecting the region’s strong local flavors.
Penda Pendu at Isango Gate [$20-$35] – Located in a serene setting in Summerstrand, this restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on South African cuisine, sushi, and a generous buffet, in a tranquil, contemporary atmosphere.
Barn and Barrel [$10-$20] – A popular spot in Walmer Heights (Gqeberha) that specializes in satisfying pub meals, grills, and a selection of tapas, perfect for a casual, lively outing.
Barney’s Tavern [$15-$25] – Located at the Boardwalk, this lively tavern offers a classic pub atmosphere with a menu featuring steakhouse cuts, seafood, and a strong focus on South African favorites.
Hussar Grill – Walmer [$20-$40] – A South African premier grill room known for its perfectly aged, succulent steaks and delectable house specialities, offering a sophisticated, classic steakhouse experience.
Savages [$15-$30] – Located in Park Drive (Gqeberha), this fine dining spot also features a bakery and a focus on organic breakfast options, in an elegant setting near St George’s Park.
Elephant Walk Restaurant [$15-$25] – A well-known country restaurant in the Colleen Glen area of Gqeberha, providing a relaxing, farm-style dining experience away from the city bustle.
Slipperfields Farm Kitchen [$10-$20] – A charming farm kitchen located near Lady Slipper (Gqeberha), offering simple, hearty meals in a beautiful country setting.
Major Fraser’s [$10-$20] – A popular craft bar and eatery in Makhanda, providing a relaxed atmosphere with a quality food menu alongside their selection of craft drinks.
Olde 65 [$10-$20] – A popular neighbourhood bar in Makhanda that offers a selection of food, craft beers, and cocktails in a friendly, vibey setting.
Muse Restaurant [$15-$30] – A contemporary dining spot in Richmond Hill, Gqeberha, known for its modern take on South African and vegetarian cuisine in a chic, inviting setting.
Off The Menu Food Emporium [$15-$35] – Located in Walmer, Gqeberha, this gourmet spot offers a creative menu of tapas, fine dining, and French/Mediterranean-inspired dishes, often with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients.
Haricots Deli & Bistro [$10-$20] – A beloved Makhanda eatery with a farm-to-table culture, focusing on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients for a healthy, contemporary bistro experience.
Izakaya Arata [$15-$30] – A chic and stylish restaurant in Richmond Hill, Gqeberha, serving delicious Japanese-inspired cuisine, from sushi rolls to ramen, in a relaxed, modern setting.
This Is Eat [$10-$25] – A vibrant and eclectic restaurant in Gqeberha Central, known for its mix of dishes from around the world, including some of the best calamari in the area, offering a great vibe and experience.
Ginger The Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located on the Gqeberha beachfront, this sophisticated restaurant offers a modern interpretation of South African and international cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and an award-winning wine list.
The Wax Cafe [$10-$20] – A casual restaurant and bar near Gqeberha, serving wholesome organic meals with a trendy, relaxed atmosphere, popular for its food and cocktail menu.
Charlie’s Pizza & Pasta [$10-$20] – A family-favorite in Summerstrand (Gqeberha) known for its homemade pastas and pizzas hot from the wood-fired oven, including unique options like a lamb shank pizza.
La Kouzina Cocktail Bar & Restaurant [$15-$30] – A vibrant spot in Humewood (Gqeberha) offering a mix of Greek, Italian, Seafood, and Sushi, in a lively location at Brookes on the Bay.
Black Impala Restaurant [$15-$30] – Situated on the Dom Pedro Jetty in Gqeberha Harbour, this stylish restaurant offers delicious South African cuisine with beautiful views of the water.
Fushin [$20-$40] – A trendy sushi bar in Richmond Hill (Gqeberha) often ranked as one of the best in the city, highly praised for its exceptional sushi and quality Japanese dishes.
Bridge Street Brewery [$10-$20] – A passionate local microbrewery in Gqeberha’s South End, popular for its range of hand-selected beers and excellent pub grub, including cold and hot tapas, salads, and pizzas.
Dulce Cafe – Greenacres [$5-$15] – A local cafe chain in Gqeberha, perfect for world-class coffee, smoothies, confectionery, and light culinary meals in a relaxed setting.
El Greco [$15-$30] – A Gqeberha favourite known for its extensive menu of great international food, superb wine, and exceptional service, specializing in steaks, seafood, and chicken dishes.
Wicker Woods [$15-$30] – A highly-regarded Italian restaurant in Gqeberha, focusing on everything being homemade and using only the freshest ingredients for their pasta and other Italian classics.
KOK Asian Café [$10-$25] – A trendy eatery in Walmer (Gqeberha) offering a wide range of Asian-inspired dishes, from sushi rolls to dim sum, perfect for an authentic Asian fix.
Vovo Telo Bakery & Café [$10-$20] – A favourite Gqeberha spot known for its artisanal breads, freshly brewed coffee, and hearty traditional breakfasts, offering a great family-friendly atmosphere.
The Hussar Grill – Walmer [$20-$40] – While primarily a steakhouse, it offers a diverse menu that includes game, making it a unique stop for those looking to try different South African meats in a fine-dining setting.
Hacklewood Hill Country House [$30-$50] – A fine dining experience in Walmer (Gqeberha), offering high-tea and sophisticated international and South African cuisine in a luxurious, historical country house setting.
De Kelder Restaurant – Port Elizabeth [$25-$45] – Known for its unique and delicious starters, including daring options like a trio of warthog, springbok, and crocodile carpaccio, offering a high-quality dining experience.
Contained [$20-$35] – A modern Gqeberha restaurant often praised for its high-quality gastronomy and fine dining experience, focusing on seasonal ingredients and contemporary presentation.
Ginger The Restaurant [$20-$40] – Known for its sophisticated dining experience by the sea, the menu is crafted with a modern interpretation of fresh and familiar flavors, supported by an impressive wine list.
The Fat Fish [$25-$45] – While located in Plettenberg Bay (near the region), it is a highly-rated Eastern Cape culinary destination offering a mouthwatering menu with ocean views, specializing in seafood and quality produce.
Cattle Baron Addo Grill and Bistro [$20-$35] – Located just outside the primary area in the Addo Elephant National Park, this restaurant provides a modern yet relaxed dining ambiance with a menu featuring popular Cattle Baron specialties and game.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Cosmos Cocktail Bar & Eatery: A top pick for cocktail enthusiasts, this spot in Gqeberha offers expertly mixed drinks, a friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a casual night out or a special occasion.
Nineteen33 Speakeasy Bar & Venue: For an upscale, sophisticated experience, this speakeasy in Gqeberha features a classy atmosphere, great music, and innovative cocktails. Reservations are highly recommended for this hidden gem.
White Tiger Bar + Cafe: Located in Gqeberha’s Humewood area, this crowd-favourite is known for its lively ambiance, great music, and excellent service, making it a reliable choice for delicious cocktails.
The Taste Room: Situated in Gqeberha’s vibrant Walmer district, this venue is ideal for adventurous drinkers, offering a selection of unique drinks and cocktails alongside South African wine and gourmet pairings.
Bohemia Art Gallery & Wine Bar: Found in Gqeberha, this stylish spot blends art and fine drinks to create a memorable, intimate setting for cocktail lovers and those seeking a cultural touch to their night.
Ziggy’s R&R Bar: This bar in Summerstrand, Gqeberha, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and a vibrant coastal atmosphere, with reasonably priced drinks and a good food menu.
Banana Beach Bar and Kitchen: A great blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant nightlife in Gqeberha, this bar is known for its amazing cocktails and mouthwatering food.
Infinity Cocktail Bar & Eatery: An upscale eatery, coffee shop, and cocktail bar in Gqeberha’s Central area, offering an elegant environment to enjoy a fabulous cocktail or cold beer.
Barn & Barrel: Located in Gqeberha, this establishment boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere and offers a selection of cocktails alongside its extensive wine list and exquisite cuisine.
Barney’s Tavern: A beloved landmark situated right on the beachfront at The Boardwalk in Summerstrand, Gqeberha, offering a relaxed beach bar atmosphere with stunning ocean views, craft gins, delightful cocktails, and live music.
BeerShack: Also nestled along the stunning beachfront of Summerstrand, Gqeberha, this vibrant spot offers more than just craft beers; it’s a go-to for immaculate vibes and divine cocktails in a laid-back setting.
The Club at 12 Bird Street: Found in Central, Gqeberha, this historic club offers a refined bar with wood panelling and a cosy, Victorian-era ambiance, perfect for a relaxed pre-dinner drink.
The Music Kitchen: Located in Gqeberha, this venue is primarily known for hosting live music, but it also serves a variety of delightful drinks, making it a great spot for a cocktail with a show.
Liquid Lounge: While a prominent disco club in Gqeberha Central, it also features a diverse menu and encourages guests to try its signature cocktails to complement their dining and dancing experience.
The Old Central Hotel – Home of The Guv’nor Pub: Located in Gqeberha Central, this spot provides a classic pub environment which also serves a selection of drinks, acting as a great pre-clubbing location.
qua Nightclub: Found in the heart of Gqeberha, this spot is considered the zeitgeist of the city’s nightlife, known for its thumping musical beats and featuring international artists and bands. A great place for cocktail experimentation.
Liquid Lounge: A top destination for the ultimate nightlife experience in Gqeberha Central on Parliament Street, this popular disco club has a spacious dance floor, state-of-the-art sound systems, and a high-energy ambiance.
Candy’s Gentlemen’s Club: Gqeberha’s premier gentlemen’s club offers a refined and comfortable setting near the city centre, with VIP lounges and entertainment. (Note: This is a strip/revue club).
The Music Kitchen: A vibrant and bustling live music venue in Gqeberha that often hosts parties, bands, and late-night events, creating a club-like atmosphere depending on the night.
37onNew: A dynamic pub nestled in the heart of Makhanda, this venue captures the essence of the city’s nightlife. It’s known for its live music, diverse selection of drinks, and a spacious dance floor, popular with the university crowd.
Illusion Sports Bar & Nightclub: Located in Gqeberha, this venue combines a sports bar atmosphere with a nightclub experience, offering a mix of entertainment for a late-night crowd.
Funni Girls Night Club (at The Old Central Hotel): Situated in Gqeberha Central, this is a specific late-night venue within the historic hotel complex that caters to a crowd looking for a traditional nightclub experience.
Champs Action Bar: Makhanda’s unofficial nightlife headquarters, found on Scott’s Ave in the heart of the town. While a bar, it transitions into a lively nightlife spot with pool, drink specials, and popular karaoke nights.
The Boardwalk Complex (Nightclubs): The greater complex on Marine Drive, Summerstrand, Gqeberha, often hosts various pop-up or resident nightclubs, offering different dance floors and music genres for party-goers looking to dance late.
Neighbourhood Bar & Grill: A popular and lively establishment in Gqeberha that often turns into a club-like environment with thumping music, perfect for an evening of immersion into the port’s local culture.
The Rat & Parrot: A classic student pub in Makhanda on New Street that, while primarily a pub, is a major social hub and often hosts lively events like pub quizzes that keep the energy high late into the evening.