A smaller coastal city near to adventurous back country trad and home to many moderate sport climbs.
Port Elizabeth (PE) is the nucleus of climbing in the Eastern Cape with surrounding areas boasting a variety of rock types and climbing styles. Those who venture here will find a quieter yet wilder experience. It is also near to those classic South African tourism spots such as Jeffries Bay surfing, The Garden Route and Addo Elephant Park.
The Mediterranean Climate means that from an adventure / climbing point of view the dominant considerations for us are avoiding the heat of summer and to a lesser degree the winter rain.
Dominated by the South-Easter (a gusty and low-level wind) PE can be climbed in summer though one should definitely aim to climb or hike in the shade of the day. Locals usually avoid climbing venues that are further inland as they are considered too hot.
Our preferred season for general climbing and adventuring. The days do start to get short but the wind and heat go away. The only real note is the saying: It always rains over the Easter Weekend.
Historically PE was known for its long periods of rain in the winter, however global weather change has caused a severe drought through recent years. Early winter (1st 2 weeks of June) often has some of the finest days of the year! Winter is not over until end September with September actually offering some of the worst as far as storms go. Winter is the season to take advantage of Alicedale, the countries second largest boulder venue.
We've given Spring a very short window primarily because of the late September winter storms and the arrival of the South Easter in late November. The difference between Spring and Autumn, from a climbing point of view, is related to the high water table / saturation after the winter rains which in extreme and rare cases impacts crag seepage. Other than that, a fine time of the year to adventure.
As with everywhere in South Africa, it is very difficult to rely on public transport to get to the crags (and hitchhiking carries its own risks). It is advisable to rent a car or meet up with some locals.
Many shopping malls and so forth cater very well to the shopping needs. Climbing gear stores are limited (due to South Africa's small climbing community), but the available range is remarkably wide and comprehensive. Visit our store here.
Port Elizabeth's one and only climbing gym is Valley Crag, where you meet many friendly faces some of whom may invite you to climb at their impressive home walls.
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