Tours

Discover the Beauty of Gqeberha – Gateway to the Eastern Cape

Welcome to Gqeberha, a coastal gem known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of Algoa Bay, this vibrant city is the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm, offering something for every traveller.

As a delegate attending the SAPA National Conference, you have the unique opportunity to explore the best of Gqeberha through curated tours designed to showcase the heart and soul of the Eastern Cape. From scenic coastal drives and wildlife encounters to historic landmarks and local flavours, each experience is crafted to leave you inspired and invigorated.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Gqeberha – where the ocean meets adventure, and every corner tells a story. Join us and make your visit unforgettable!

Choose your adventure and start exploring today.

Available Tours

Tours can be booked when registering online. Just make sure to add a tour to your basket before checkout. Prices are inclusive of VAT.

Overview: Join us for a fascinating journey through aviation history at the South African Air Force Museum in Port Elizabeth. This unique experience starts at 09:00 AM and promises an insightful exploration of a rich collection that captures the spirit and heritage of South African aviation.

Tour Details: The South African Air Force Museum, located at the historical Forest Hill site, officially opened in 1991 and occupies the wartime infrastructure of 42 Air School. Here, you’ll discover an impressive array of exhibits that chronicle the evolution of military aviation in South Africa. From historic aircraft to rare artefacts, each piece tells a story of bravery, innovation, and progress.

Schedule: 09h00 – 12h30 (Approximately 3.5 hours)

Includes: Transportation to and from the museum; a knowledgeable guide providing expert commentary; and entrance fees to the Air Force Museum.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about the pivotal role of aviation in South Africa’s military history. Don’t miss this opportunity to step back in time and explore one of the most intriguing aspects of South Africa’s past.

Overview: Embark on a thrilling adventure into the wild at the Kragga Kamma Game Reserve. This guided tour offers an intimate glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of one of South Africa’s captivating game reserves, home to three of the Big 5—buffalo, lion, and rhino.

Tour Details: Set off at 09:00 AM in an open vehicle that brings you face-to-face with some of Africa’s most renowned wildlife. The Kragga Kamma Game Reserve is a sanctuary for a vast array of animal species, including a rich variety of antelopes and other native wildlife, all roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Schedule: 09h00 – 13h00 (Approximately 4 hours)

Includes: Round-trip transportation;  an expert guide leading the game drive; and entrance fees to Kragga Kamma Game Reserve.

Experience the beauty and the thrill of the African bush in this safe and serene reserve. As you travel through lush greenery and landscapes that host some of the continent’s most spectacular creatures, our knowledgeable guides will share insights into the lives and habits of the animals you encounter.

This tour is a must-do for nature lovers and those who seek a genuine African wildlife experience. Book your seat now and prepare for an unforgettable morning observing some of the most majestic animals on the planet at Kragga Kamma Game Reserve.

Overview: Step back in time with our City Heritage Tour, a half-day exploration that delves into the rich history of our vibrant city. Beginning at 09:00 AM, this tour takes you through the most storied sites, where the past comes alive with tales of yesteryears.

Tour Details: Your journey starts with a visit to the iconic Donkin Reserve, a landmark steeped in local lore and history. From there, you’ll explore The Fort, an enduring symbol of the city’s colonial past. Continue to No 7 Castle Hill Museum, a beautifully preserved settler cottage that offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. The tour meanders along Bird Street, winding around Park Drive, and culminates at the Horse Memorial, each site narrating its own part of the city’s historical tapestry.

Schedule: 09h00 – 13h00 (Approximately 4 hours)

Includes: Transportation throughout the city; a knowledgeable guide offering historical insights; and Entrance fees to No 7 Castle Hill Museum.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about the foundational events and figures that shaped the city. As you visit each landmark, our expert guide will share fascinating stories and facts that paint a vivid picture of the city’s heritage.

Overview: Embark on a captivating journey to the heart of marine conservation with our SANCCOB and Marine Drive Tour. Starting at 08:30 AM, this tour offers a unique opportunity to visit the SANCCOB Rehabilitation Centre, a crucial facility dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of the critically endangered African Penguins and other marine life.

Tour Details: Your tour begins with a visit to the SANCCOB Rehabilitation Centre, where you’ll learn about the efforts to save the African Penguin, which breeds in the nearby St Croix and Bird Islands of Algoa Bay—home to the world’s largest breeding colony of these charming creatures. The centre plays a vital role in rehabilitating various marine species, preparing them for release back into their natural habitat.

Continue your tour with a visit to the historic Cape Recife Lighthouse, established in 1851, and marvel at its enduring presence and the role it plays in maritime navigation. The journey then takes you along the scenic Marine Drive, offering sweeping views of the coastline, leading you to the site of the historical Sacramento shipwreck. Here, you’ll hear the dramatic tales of the survivors and the ship’s ill-fated voyage.

Schedule: 08h30 – 13h00 (Approximately 4.5 hours)

Includes: Transportation throughout the tour; a knowledgeable guide providing insightful commentary; and entrance fees to the SANCCOB Rehabilitation Centre.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and anyone interested in maritime history and coastal preservation. Join us for a morning of education and inspiration, exploring the natural beauty and conservation efforts that define our coastal heritage.

Overview: The Algoa Bay Island Cruise is a 3.5 to 4-hour journey exploring the vibrant marine life around St Croix and Brenton Islands. You’ll encounter African penguins, dolphins, whales, and more in their natural habitat. Please note the time commitment, as the duration may vary depending on sightings.

Tour Details:

The cruise departs at 8:00 am from the grass area near the Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club in Port Elizabeth Harbour. Departure times may change to accommodate guests, and any updates will be communicated. The cruise typically ends around 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm, though the return may be slightly delayed if guests are enjoying the experience. We start with a harbour cruise and safety briefing before heading to the islands. Fresh croissants and spring water are provided. You may bring your own snacks (no alcohol allowed), but please avoid single-use plastic that could blow into the ocean. Safety note: There is a maximum passenger weight limit of 120 kg.

Schedule: 08h00 – 12h30 (Approximately 3.5 – 4 hours). 

Highlights: The cruise visits St Croix Island, home to around 3,000 African penguins, and Brenton Island. St Croix is a key breeding site within a Marine Protected Area. All wildlife viewing is from the boat as disembarkation is not permitted. Wildlife sightings may include bottlenose dolphins (Algoa Bay is known as the bottlenose capital of the world), common dolphins, humpback dolphins, Bryde’s whales, minke whales, humpback whales (June to December), Southern right whales (July to September), Cape fur seals, sharks, Cape gannets, and various pelagic birds like terns, petrels, skuas, shearwaters, and albatrosses. Our team is committed to providing a memorable and informative experience, sharing insights into the marine environment throughout the journey.

Overview: The Oyster Bay Cruise offers a unique 2-hour experience, combining a scenic boat ride with an informative tour of the Zwembesi Oyster Farm. Limited to 12 guests per trip, the cruise provides an intimate and engaging exploration of oyster cultivation and tasting.

Tour Details:

Guests are picked up and transferred to the harbour, where they board the catamaran for departure. The cruise exits Port Elizabeth Harbour and heads to the Zwembesi Oyster Farm, located in the calm waters north of the harbour. A brief guided tour of the oyster farm follows, covering fascinating insights into oyster cultivation and the specific practices of the Zwembesi Farm.

During the cruise, each guest will have the opportunity to taste six oysters, either fresh or grilled. Additional snacks are available, and liquid refreshments are provided. After the oyster tasting, guests can relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery as the boat makes its way back to the harbour.

Schedule:

The boat will do two trips: 

TRIP 1

Pickup: 06:30
Departure: 07:00
Return: Approx. 09:00
Drop-off: 09:30

TRIP 2

Pickup: 09:30
Departure: 10:00
Return: Approx. 12:00
Drop-off: 12:30

Includes:

  • Transport to and from the harbour
  • Guided cruise with insights into oyster farming
  • Six oysters per guest (fresh or grilled)
  • Additional snacks and refreshments

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate fresh seafood and are curious about oyster cultivation. The friendly crew ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience, blending culinary delight with scenic beauty.

Enjoy a nostalgic day of entertainment with a classic movie screening at NuMetro, Boardwalk Mall, Gqeberha. Relax in the comfort of a state-of-the-art cinema while enjoying timeless cinema magic. The experience includes a complimentary serving of popcorn and a refreshing drink to complete the perfect outing.

Join us and Lead the Change

Register now from just ZAR 7200