Port Elizabeth’s Best Day Hikes

Hey there! If you’re in Port Elizabeth, aka The Windy City, and you want to go for a hike without spending a single cent, you’re in luck! This place has a bunch of awesome reserves with easy-to-follow trails. Let me tell you about six of the best ones.

The Humpback Dolphin Trail

Now, I don’t know about you, but I think it’s practically a requirement to take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront when you’re in a coastal city. Port Elizabeth’s beachfront promenade, stretching all the way from King’s Beach to Pollok Beach, is the perfect place to do just that. And guess what? They’ve recently added a brand new raised walkway made from recycled plastic. This walkway, known as the Humpback Dolphin Trail, is 2.3 kilometers long and is great for both walking and cycling. Oh, and it’s even illuminated at night!

The Lower Guinea Fowl Hiking Trail

If you find yourself in the heart of the city, there’s a fantastic 7.5-kilometre trail that you can explore. It all begins at Glen Hurd Drive, then winds its way alongside the Baakens River flood plain. From there, it takes you through a picturesque valley and leads you to Settler’s Park. What makes this trail special is that it’s right in the midst of the city, but it feels like you’re stepping into a magical wilderness.

The trail is best enjoyed with a group of friends or fellow explorers. As you make your way along the path, you’ll be surrounded by lush wooded areas that will make you forget about the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the perfect escape from the concrete jungle.

For nature lovers, this trail is a haven. You can spend your time bird-watching and marveling at the various species that call this area home. You might even come across some adorable small animals during your hike. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature and experience a sense of serenity.

Experience the Roseate Tern Hiking Trail

I absolutely love going for walks on the beach, and one of my all-time favorite trails is located in Cape Recife Nature Reserve. It’s known for being an excellent spot for bird-watching, especially if you want to catch a glimpse of the rare Roseate tern. This trail has it all – untouched beaches, rockpools, and a nine-kilometer loop that takes you through stunning dune vegetation and beautiful fynbos. Along the way, you’ll also come across shipwrecks, the oldest lighthouse in the Eastern Cape, and a bird hide.

When you start your journey at the SAMREC penguin rehabilitation center, which is where the trail begins, you’ll have the opportunity to take a tour of the facility. It’s definitely worth checking out! Keep in mind that there is a small fee of R25 for the trail, but it includes the tour of SAMREC. If you decide to park outside of the reserve, you won’t have to pay an entrance fee, but be prepared for a bit of a walk to get to the starting point of the trail.

So, if you’re looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, the Cape Recife Nature Reserve and its amazing beach trail should be at the top of your list. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this hidden gem and connect with nature in a truly special way.

Hey there! Let me tell you about this awesome circular walk through Schoenmakerskop-Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve. It’s really cool! So, the adventure starts at this super old bronze cannon in Schoenmakerskop. It’s so ancient that it even points towards the Sacramento, which was a big ship that sank way back in 1647. Can you believe that?

Now, get ready for some breathtaking views! The trail takes you down to the shore and along the coast. You’ll pass by the Sacramento Monument, which is like a tribute to the ship and its story. Then, things get even more exciting as you enter the Sardinia Bay Marine Reserve.

Oh boy, this place is a real treasure trove! Picture this: hidden gullies filled with all sorts of fish and anemones. It’s like an underwater paradise right between those rocky cliffs. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins and gannets as you make your way back to where you started.

To wrap it all up, the final leg of the walk takes you along a ridge covered in fynbos. It’s just the cherry on top of an amazing adventure. So, what do you say? Are you ready to dive into nature and explore all the wonders of Schoenmakerskop-Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve? Let’s go!

Van der Kemps Trail

Are you ready for an exciting adventure? Join me on a journey along the beautiful trail that starts in Bethelsdorp, the historical first missionary settlement in Port Elizabeth. This trail will captivate both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Get ready to be mesmerized by the wonders of nature and the rich historical landmarks that await you!

As we embark on this trail, we will be following the meandering path of the Little Zwartkops River through the breathtaking Van der Kemp’s Kloof. This picturesque kloof offers a unique blend of natural beauty and fascinating history. Get ready to be awe-struck!

One of the highlights of this trail is the striking Van der Kemp’s Church, a magnificent piece of architecture that stands as a testament to the past. As you stand in its presence, you can’t help but feel the weight of history on your shoulders.

But that’s not all! As we venture further along the trail, we will be treated to a captivating display of nature’s beauty. Imagine walking through slopes adorned with vibrant aloe plants, their leaves glistening in the sunlight. The colors and textures of the plants will leave you spellbound.

And let’s not forget the breathtaking views over Algoa Bay. As we reach the vantage points, we will be rewarded with panoramic vistas that will take your breath away. The vastness of the ocean and the distant horizon will ignite a sense of wonder in your heart.

But there’s something even more special about this place. It is the home of the rushleaved strelitzia, a rare and indigenous plant species. Can you believe that there are only a few small populations of these magnificent plants in this area? Witnessing their beauty up close is truly a privilege.

Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve

I want to share with you about this special place called Van Staden’s Nature Reserve. It’s located just 35 kilometers west of the city and its main purpose is to protect and preserve the unique plants that grow there. When you visit, you’ll be amazed by the diverse fynbos and succulents that can be found. There are different trails you can explore, like the Fynbos Ramble, which is a shorter trail that starts at the information center. Or if you want a longer walk, you can try the 3.5-kilometer River Walk, which takes you along the edge of the stunning Van Staden’s Gorge.

If you need more information about these trails, you can contact Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism at 041-582-2575 or send them an email at [email protected] You can also visit their website at www.nmbt.co.za.

I hope you enjoy your time at Van Staden’s Nature Reserve and get to experience the beauty of nature firsthand. Don’t forget to take your camera with you to capture the incredible sights!