From your serene sanctuary at Isla Riverside Lodge, a world of adventure, nature, and city excitement awaits. Nestled on the Swartkops River, you are perfectly positioned to enjoy riverside tranquility and the vibrant energy of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Whether you are an angler, a hiker, a beach-lover, or a wildlife enthusiast, your perfect day is just moments away.
You don’t need to travel far to find adventure. The tranquil waters of the Swartkops River Estuary are the heart of Amsterdamhoek and offer activities for everyone.
Fishing: The estuary is a renowned fishing hotspot for locals. Cast a line from the banks or a boat and try your luck catching species like cob, grunter, and steenbras. Kayak fishing is also extremely popular in the calm, protected waters.
Boating & Paddling: This is a paddler’s paradise. Launch your canoe or kayak and explore the winding river channels. The waters are generally calm, making it ideal for a relaxing boat trip to soak in the scenery.
World-Class Birdwatching: The Swartkops Estuary is a globally recognised Important Bird Area (IBA). It is a vital habitat for over 200 species of birds, with numbers exceeding 10,000 in summer. From the lodge, you can spot Greater and Lesser Flamingos, Goliath Herons, Pied Avocets, Caspian Terns, and a vast array of waders and local birds.
Just up the road from the lodge, in the Swartkops Valley Nature Reserve, you’ll find the start of the famous Aloe Trail (beginning at Tippers Creek Road). This trail offers breathtaking views over the estuary and Amsterdamhoek. Choose from a shorter 2km (yellow) trail or the more robust 5-7km (red) loop. The trail is famous for its dense thickets of aloes, which bloom spectacularly in winter (June-July), attracting flocks of sunbirds. You may also spot small wildlife like grysbok, blue duiker, and bushpig.
A Friendly Safety Reminder: For your safety, it is strongly recommended to walk the Aloe Trail in a group and not alone.
You are just a short drive from some of the Eastern Cape’s best beaches.
Bluewater Bay Beach: The closest beach to the lodge, perfect for a quick swim, a long walk, or soaking up the sun.
Gqeberha’s Main Beaches: A 15-20 minute drive will take you to the city’s main beachfront, which includes King’s Beach (family-friendly, golden sand), Humewood Beach (one of South Africa’s oldest Blue Flag beaches), and Hobie Beach (popular for sailing, windsurfing, and watersports).
As a major city, Gqeberha offers a full range of attractions, dining, and entertainment.
Shopping & Entertainment: The Bluewater Bay Shopping Centre has all your daily essentials. For a full retail, dining, and cinema experience, the Baywest Mall and Greenacres Shopping Centre are popular choices. The Boardwalk complex also offers a casino, numerous restaurants, an arcade, and a cinema.
History & Culture: Explore the city’s rich heritage by visiting the Donkin Reserve, climbing The Campanile for 360° views, or exploring the powerful Route 67 art installation.
A “Big 5” safari is a must-do, and Isla Riverside Lodge is the perfect base. The main gate of the world-famous Addo Elephant National Park is only about an hour’s drive away. Home to one of the densest populations of African elephants on earth, the park also features lions, buffalo, rhino, hyenas, and the unique Addo flightless dung beetle.
Pro Travel Tip: When driving to Addo, SANParks (South African National Parks) advises using the N2 highway route via the N10, which is the safest and most reliable route from Gqeberha.