Summary
Morning in Port Elizabeth
After spending our final morning in Port Elizabeth at the Red Location township, we returned to the city for a brief sightseeing excursion, which was the only activity we hadn’t yet undertaken up to that moment.
Exploring Route 67
We passed the stadium, which World Cup enthusiasts might recognize, and traversed through Port Elizabeth’s picturesque residential areas towards the commencement of Route 67.
Route 67 serves as a pedestrian pathway through Port Elizabeth, crafted by a multitude of artists to commemorate Nelson Mandela and to mark the arrival of a new era in South Africa.
Artwork and History
The rain clouds, which had loomed ominously all morning, finally unleashed their downpour. Fortunately, this was a fleeting event as the optimal way to experience Route 67 is on foot.
The rain resulted in the flag needing to be lowered prematurely, which consequently led to a mini-parade while we awaited clearer weather, during which I observed the most colossal flag I have ever seen descend from its mast. Although not particularly riveting, I was genuinely astounded by its size.
Addo National Park Excursion
When we resumed our walk following the rain, we occasionally halted to appreciate the artwork encapsulating South Africa’s history. An example is the depiction of an elderly black woman casting her vote for the very first time in her life. Lacking mobility aids, she was determined to vote, and her neighbor transported her to the polling stations in his wheelbarrow. Upon gaining the crowd’s attention, her heartfelt story led her to the front of the line, inspiring many throughout the nation.
Final Thoughts and Reflections
Our journey eventually led us to the city center, ultimately taking us to Nando’s, as it originates from South Africa, thereby offering a legitimate dining option.
Somehow, our plans for an outdoor barbecue were abandoned due to inclement weather—a prudent decision. As a result, we visited Addo National Park (again).
This return visit provided an excellent opportunity to witness some animal species that we had previously overlooked, such as spotting cheetahs resting in the distance post-feeding—although they were too far for us to capture photographs of. This further underscores why opting for a private safari experience proves advantageous, as it allows access to off-road areas.
The scenery at Addo National Park was utterly breathtaking.
Seemingly out of nowhere, we had the chance to check off another big five animal from our list—lions!
As evening approached, we made our way toward the park’s exit, only to be halted momentarily by an ornery male elephant. For several minutes, car traffic was stalled, and it became apparent that a confrontation was unfolding between the male elephant and another hidden in the foliage. Soon enough, the rival presented itself, and the ensuing confrontation was equally exhilarating and intimidating.
The last notable sighting before our departure was the fourth of the big five and the rarest one—a black rhino! Unfortunately, it maintained a distance, but, nevertheless, a sighting is still a sighting, and quite a commendable one to conclude our park experience.
As the following day dawned, our intentions were focused on maintaining minimal plans; however, we did intend to indulge in a mid-afternoon massage before embarking on our return journey to London.
Spa day today… ?☀️? #RollingInRands with @visitsouthafrica_uk #Travel #Pool #SouthAfrica
A photo posted by GoTravelDaily (@GoTravelDaily) on Mar 26, 2016 at 9:27am PDT
The city sparkles at sunrise!
Indeed, the scenery serves as ample evidence of the exquisite beauty one can discover on this journey.
