Port Alfred, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Port Alfred, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Port Alfred, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Port Alfred, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Port Alfred, South Africa, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Port Alfred, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Port Alfred, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Port Alfred, South Africa by month

January

Traveling to Port Alfred in January, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Port Alfred in February, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you are traveling to Port Alfred in March, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you go to Port Alfred in May, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Port Alfred in July, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

Traveling to Port Alfred in August, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you are traveling to Port Alfred in September, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you go to Port Alfred in October, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

Traveling to Port Alfred in December, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    South Africa has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Port Alfred may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Kowie Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Port Alfred, South Africa

Port Alfred is a stunningly beautiful coastal town situated on the eastern Cape of South Africa. The town is surrounded by lush vegetation, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waterways. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa due to its numerous attractions that cater to families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Port Alfred.

1. Kelly's Beach: Kelly's Beach is one of the most renowned beaches in Port Alfred. It is a pristine, white-sand beach, surrounded by imposing sand dunes, and has been awarded the Blue Flag status for hygiene, safety, and environmental standards. It is an ideal beach for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

2. Kowie River: The Kowie River runs through Port Alfred, and boat trips along this river are incredibly popular with tourists. The river is home to various species of freshwater and marine life and is well-known for its scenic beauty. Along the river, visitors will also encounter charming little fishing villages and scenic landscapes.

3. Fish River Sun Golf Course: The Fish River Sun Golf Course is a world-renowned golf course situated in Port Alfred. The course is set amongst magnificent scenery, with rolling hills, lush vegetation, and pristine lakes. The golf course is known for its long fairways and tricky greens, making it a favorite among golfing enthusiasts.

4. Great Fish River Nature Reserve: The Great Fish River Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers. With over 45,000 hectares of protected land, the reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, including various species of antelope, buffalo, zebras, and giraffes. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by car and are sure to encounter some incredible wildlife sightings.

5. Adventure Activities: For those looking for a bit of adventure, Port Alfred offers numerous activities to get the adrenaline pumping. From kite surfing, skydiving, and zip-lining to horseback riding, quad biking, and 4x4 tours, there's something for everyone.

Port Alfred is a captivating and vibrant town that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a nature-inspired adventure or a round of golf, Port Alfred has it all. With its exceptional beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Port Alfred is a top-rated tourist destination in South Africa that should be on everyone's travel bucket list.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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