Donkin Reserve

The basics

You don't need a ticket to visit the Donkin Reserve—Sir Rufane wanted it to be free for everyone, forever. But you will need to visit the tourism office in the reserve (or join an organized tour) to get access to the lighthouse. Its romantic history and sweeping views make the Donkin Reserve a popular stop on Port Elizabeth city tours, whether shore excursions, walking tours, or chauffeur-driven sightseeing trips, but it’s also easy to explore independently.

Things to know before you go

• The Donkin Reserve is a good choice for history buffs, romantics, and photographers.

• Views are best from the top of the lighthouse: Allow 20–30 minutes to visit the park, see the pyramid, and climb the lighthouse.

• Wear practical shoes if the lighthouse is on your itinerary. The stairs are steep.

• The Donkin Reserve is wheelchair-accessible, but the lighthouse is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

How to get there

The Donkin Reserve sits in the heart of Port Elizabeth, close to the Opera House and St. Augustine’s Cathedral, and a 10-minute walk from the Intercape intercity bus station. Most travelers walk, join a tour, or self-drive: There’s free street parking for a limited time.

When to get there

The Donkin Reserve is open 24/7/365 but the lighthouse is only accessible 8am–4:30pm Monday to Friday and 9am–3:30pm on Saturdays. It’s rarely crowded so visit at a time that suits you. Note that soldiers raise and lower the giant flag at the start and end of each day.

Route 67 public artworks

Port Elizabeth, now formally known as Gqeberha, sits on Nelson Mandela Bay, and in honor of his 67 years of work for South Africa, the city created a series of 67 public artworks. You can pick up a leaflet at the tourist office to follow Route 67 to all 67 pieces, but you’ll see key highlights in the Donkin Reserve: the giant flag, the fish-bird sculpture, and the 5,060-square-foot (470-square-meter) mosaic that represents both Port Elizabeth and the Eastern Cape.