Uitenhage, Port Elizabeth

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Eastern Cape Destinations

Uitenhage, Port Elizabeth

Uitenhage
Uitenhage's official flower, the Strelitzia

Lying on the Zwartkops River just 38 kilometres north west of Port Elizabeth, Uitenhage is also known as the Garden Town for its gorgeous position in the foothills of the Winterhoek Mountains, its many rambling parks and a climate that allows gardens to flourish with little input. Add to this already pretty picture the fact that the town's official flower, the Strelitzia, blooms just about everywhere, and you begin to see why Uitenhage might be a good place to stop.

It is also just 45 kilometres away from the Addo Elephant Park, so makes a gentle stopover en route from Port Elizabeth, with numerous view stops along the way. The town itself was founded in 1804 so has a rich history demonstrated in a number of old buildings maintained in excellent condition, like the Town Hall, the Drostdy and the Court House. Victorian and Settler architecture add to the town's historical attraction.

Uitenhage isn't a small town. Almost 300 000 people live here and a Volkswagen factory, which has just produced its 400 000 th Polo, is one of the main forms of employment for many who live here.

The Uitenhage Street Carnival, around for two decades and celebrated in late November, is well worthwhile. Uitenhage all but shuts down for the event, which turns on festive street lights and produces a street stage. There's a street parade, live entertainment on the big street stage, a street market with over 120 stalls, a play land for children and a Miss Carnival Queen pageant (who goes on to serve as a community environmental ambassador).

Any town with a slogan like 'Uit is the new in' deserves a once-over in my book!

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Uitenhage Reviews

average visitor rating: 2/5"Uitenhage is quiet, but there are some historical attractions there. VWSA has a very cool car museum that is worth a visit. ..." - Arlene Moody, Stellenbosch

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Featured Attractions in (or near) Uitenhage

Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve

This beautiful flower reserve lies just off the N2, roughly 35 kilometres west of Port Elizabeth. It might be smallish (600 hectares) but locals vote it one of the best spots to see flowering proteas in season, as well as other indigenous fynbos. You can snatch a great view of ... more information

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Things To Do in Uitenhage

Old Railway Station Museum

Where: Uitenhage
How much (per person): Donations appreciated

The Old Railway Station in Museum is an absolute must-see for locomotive enthusiasts. It is reputed to be one of the oldest railway stations ... more information

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Events and/or Festivals in Uitenhage

Afri-Save Marathon

Location: Uitenhage
Duration: 1 day

More Information

event starts: 28 September 2013
September

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South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. With eight world heritage sites, a multitude of game reserves and national parks, over 1350 ha of national botanical gardens, and exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture, South Africa offers the traveller a unique and inspiring experience. Enjoy your stay in Uitenhage!
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