The Donkin Reserve: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Port Elizabeth
Active
1h - 1h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Port Elizabeth owes its existence to one major historical event: a decision by Britain’s House of Commons on 12 July 1819 to approve the expenditure of £50,000 on the Cape Emigration Scheme. This self-guided audio tour is about that emigration scheme and the establishment of a port and a community, who created a town with strong cultural links to the land of their birth. I’ll be showing you some of the more remarkable buildings and monuments that have sprung up over the past two centuries.
Along the way, you’ll see historic stone churches and a 52-metre-high tower, the Campanile, built to mark the 100th anniversary of the settlers’ arrival. You’ll see a stately City Hall built alongside a market square where for almost 100 years ox-wagons would congregate to sell ivory, animal hides and wool. You’ll see elaborate architectural gems, including a library whose terra cotta façade was manufactured in Britain and shipped out to Port Elizabeth.
Available options
The Donkin Reserve: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Port Elizabeth
What's included
VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
Parts of the tour take place within the Donkin Reserve.
2
The tour passes by The Donkin Lighthouse.
3
The tour passes by the Main Library.
4
The tour passes through the Vuyisile Mini Square.
5
The tour passes by the Port Elizabeth City Hall.
6
The tour passes by The Campanile.
7
The tour passes by the Old Post Office Building.
8
The tour passes by the Monument to Prester John.
9
The tour passes over the Baakens River.
10
The tour passes by the Tramways Building.
11
The tour passes by the St Mary's Cemetery.
12
The tour passes by the No 7 Castle Hill Museum.
13
The tour passes by the The Athenaeum.
14
The tour passes by the Fort Frederick.
15
The tour passes by The Hill Church Central.
What's not included
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
───
• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
───
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth, now officially known as Gqeberha, is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa's Eastern Cape province. Known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and friendly locals, it offers a unique blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. The city is also a gateway to the stunning Addo Elephant National Park and the scenic Garden Route.
Top Attractions
Addo Elephant National Park
One of the largest national parks in South Africa, known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
Nature/Adventure
Full day recommended
ZAR 160-200 per vehicle
Hobie Beach
A popular beach known for its water sports, including windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Donkin Heritage Trail
A self-guided walking trail that takes you through the historic sites and landmarks of Port Elizabeth.
Historical/Cultural
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, a popular South African street food.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and meat options available
Snoek Braai
Grilled snoek (a local fish) seasoned with spices and served with vegetables.
Dinner
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Surfing
Kiteboarding
Safaris
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Picnicking
Donkin Heritage Trail
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
November to February (summer)
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long days, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions
Port Elizabeth is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious in less populated areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxis and tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Port Elizabeth International Airport • 6 km from city center
By train
Port Elizabeth Station
By bus
Port Elizabeth Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and extensive bus network, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Central
Walmer
Summerstrand
Day trips
Addo Elephant National Park
45 km • Full day
A day trip to Addo Elephant National Park offers the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
Jeffreys Bay
70 km • Full day
Known as one of the world's best surfing spots, Jeffreys Bay offers beautiful beaches, surfing, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Kragga Kamma Game Park
10 km • Half day
A small game park located within the city limits, offering the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras.
Festivals
National Arts Festival • June/July
June Jazz Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Addo Elephant National Park for a unique wildlife experience
- Explore the Donkin Heritage Trail for a glimpse into the city's rich history
- Try local seafood dishes, particularly snoek and crayfish
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Use public transport or walk to explore the city and save on transport costs
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
