Port Alfred

Port Alfred is located between Port Elizabeth and East London along South Africa‘s “Sunshine Coast.”  The town has a marina, stretching beaches and the Kowie River which flows through town and offers great birding.  There are plenty of water activities to take part in including great diving, swimming, fishing, canoeing through the marina canals, kite surfing and water skiing.  The Gary Player designed golf course, Fish River Sun, is close by if you want to take a crack at one of the native South African’s many creations.  Nearby malaria-free game reserves make it easy to get your safari thirst quenched. 

If you want a taste of vibrant South African culture, the nearby town of Grahamstown hosts the exciting annual National Arts Festival for performing arts which showcases theater, dance, live music, stand-up comedy, visual art exhibits, films, talks and workshops.  It is the largest festival in Africa.  During this time there is also a children’s art festival and the National Youth Jazz Festival.  The event runs for 11 days from the end of June to the beginning of July, depending on the year.