Port Alfred Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Port Alfred, South Africa with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit places, activities, accommodations, and tips to make the most of your journey.


Welcome to Port Alfred, a charming seaside town located in the Sunshine Coast in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. This picturesque town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a delightful food scene. Here is a comprehensive travel guide to Port Alfred, featuring essential tips, must-visit places, and activities to make the most out of your journey to this beautiful coastal destination.

Introduction to Port Alfred

Port Alfred, also known as the ‘Kowie’ by the locals, was founded in the early 1800s as an important British port. It was named after Prince Alfred, the second son of Queen Victoria, who visited the town in 1860. Over the years, Port Alfred has become a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a relaxing seaside vacation with plenty of adventure activities to keep them busy.

List of Places to Visit in Port Alfred

Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or want to try your hand at some adventure sports, Port Alfred has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit places to add to your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Heritage Centre Museum: This museum showcases the history of Port Alfred, from the early migration of the San people to the present day. It has a range of exhibits, including fossils, photographs, and artifacts from the town’s history.

  • 1820 Settlers Monument: This monument commemorates the arrival of British Settlers in the Eastern Cape, including Port Alfred’s founding father, Thomas Baines.

Natural Attractions of Port Alfred: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Kowie River: The Kowie River offers a range of water activities, including kayaking, fishing, and river cruises. It is also an ideal spot for bird watching.

  • Beaches: Port Alfred has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Eastern Cape, including Kelly’s Beach, West Beach, and East Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Port Alfred

  • Royal Alfred Trail: This 10km easy hike takes you along the Kowie River and through the indigenous forest. You will encounter various bird species and wildlife during the hike.

Best Things to Do in Port Alfred: Activities and Tours

  • Big 5 game drives: You can take a day trip to one of the nearby game reserves to spot some of the Big 5 animals, including lions, elephants, and rhinos.

  • Boat trips: You can take a boat trip to explore the Kowie River and discover the hidden coves and estuaries. You might even spot some dolphins and whales.

Week-Long Itinerary for Port Alfred

Day 1: Visit the Heritage Centre Museum and the 1820 Settlers Monument.

Day 2: Try your hand at some water sports, including kayaking and river cruises.

Day 3: Explore the Royal Alfred Trail and have a picnic in the indigenous forest.

Day 4: Take a day trip to one of the nearby game reserves and encounter the Big 5 animals.

Day 5: Enjoy some downtime on the beaches of Port Alfred.

Day 6: Take a boat trip to explore the Kowie River and estuaries.

Day 7: Try some of the local dishes and beverages recommended by the locals.

Food and Drink Scene of Port Alfred

Port Alfred has a vibrant food scene influenced by the cultural and historical influences of its people. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your food itinerary.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bunny Chow: A hollowed-out bread filled with Indian-style curry, a popular and delicious street food.

  • Biltong: A traditional South African snack made by air-drying salted meat.

Local Beverages

  • Rooibos Tea: A caffeine-free tea made from the Rooibos plant and grown in the Western Cape region of South Africa. It is rich in antioxidants and has many health benefits.

  • Wine: South Africa is famous for its wine, and Port Alfred is no exception. You can visit one of the nearby wineries to sample some of the best wines in the region.

Where to Stay in Port Alfred: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Port Alfred has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Here are some of the best places to stay in Port Alfred.

  • Royal St Andrews Hotel: A five-star hotel located in the heart of Port Alfred, offering a luxurious stay with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

  • Rosehill Mall Accommodation: A budget-friendly option located in the Rosehill Mall, offering basic, homely accommodation at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Port Alfred: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring back some souvenirs and local products from Port Alfred, here are some of the best places to shop.

  • Port Alfred Market: A popular market that sells handmade crafts, clothing, and jewelry made by local artisans

  • Kenton-on-Sea: A small town just 20 km from Port Alfred, it is home to some of the best art galleries and craft shops in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Port Alfred

The people of Port Alfred are friendly and welcoming, and the town has a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the local customs and traditions you might encounter during your stay in Port Alfred.

  • Greeting: South Africans often greet each other with ‘Hi’ or ‘Hello.’

  • Languages: The most widely spoken language in Port Alfred is English, followed by Afrikaans and Xhosa.

Best Time to Visit Port Alfred

The best time to visit Port Alfred is from February to April when the humidity levels are low, and the temperatures are mild. The town experiences warm temperatures throughout the year, but December to February can be extremely hot and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Port Alfred

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting public places

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages

  • Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables unattended

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions

  • Swim in the ocean after dark

Safety and Health

Safety in Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a relatively safe town, but it is always advisable to take the necessary precautions when travelling. Here are some of the safety tips to keep in mind during your stay in Port Alfred.

  • Keep your valuables locked away in a safe place

  • Be aware of your surroundings

  • Do not walk alone at night

Health in Port Alfred

Port Alfred has a local hospital and medical center, and it is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage when travelling to Port Alfred.

Getting to Port Alfred: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Port Alfred

The nearest airport to Port Alfred is Port Elizabeth Airport, which is approximately 140 km away.

Bus Stations Near Port Alfred

The closest bus station to Port Alfred is located in Port Elizabeth, which has a range of bus services that connect to other cities in South Africa.

Other Options

Car rentals are widely available at the airports and in the town center, making it easy to explore the town and the surrounding areas at your leisure.

How to Get Around in Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. If you want to explore the surrounding areas, the easiest way to get around is by car or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Port Alfred: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kenton-on-Sea: A small seaside town located just 20 km from Port Alfred, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and beach activities.

  • Addo Elephant National Park: A short drive from Port Alfred, this national park is home to a large herd of elephants and other wildlife species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Port Alfred has plenty to offer for tourists who are looking for a beachside vacation with plenty of adventure activities and cultural experiences. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are now equipped with all the information you need to plan your trip to Port Alfred and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Bridge over the Kowie River Bridge over the Kowie River