What is the weather like in Port Alfred?

Summer lasts from mid-November to mid-March and is characterized by hot, sunny weather and thunderstorms that clear relatively quickly. The only exception is the Western Cape where due to the Mediterranean climate, the rain falls during the winter months.

Autumn lasts from mid-February to April and is characterized by little rain and warm weather which is ideal for travelling and sightseeing.

Winter lasts from May to July and is characterized by cold, crisp days and cold nights in the plateau region. Spring lasts from September to mid-October and the weather starts to get warmer.

Is it necessary to have a malaria vaccine before I arrive in South Africa?

No, it is not necessary to take tablets or get a vaccine. You will only need to have a vaccine if you plan to go to the Kruger National Park or higher up North.

What will be provided for me in my accommodation?

Students are provided with basic bedding and linen. Beach towels are not provided but can be purchased in South Africa. A laundry facility is available on campus for a nominal fee.

If I need to contact someone from Stenden South Africa urgently prior to my arrival, who should I contact?

Lindy Hulley of the Grand Tour Office should be your first point of contact.
Email: lindy.hulley@nhlstenden.com
Telephone:+27 46 604 2219

What is the safety and security like in Port Alfred?

Port Alfred is a very safe town, however, as in any place there is petty theft. It is advised that students walk in pairs during the day and in groups in the evenings. As is the case in any country, this is merely a precautionary measure. Students should put wallets, laptops and cell phones away from the windows and out of sight during the day to prevent temptation. Each student accommodation has a security guard patrolling the house at night and is there for the peace of mind of students.

What age do I need to be in order to rent a car?

In South Africa students need to be 23 in order to be eligible to rent a car. However, Stenden has an agreement with the rental company ‘Avis’ and Stenden students who are 18 years of age and in possession of an international drivers license, can rent a car from the Port Alfred, Grahamstown and Port Elizabeth branches.

I am bringing a surfboard/windsurfing equipment. Is it possible to have it transported to Port Alfred with Stenden transport?

Students bringing any sort of over-sized luggage need to contact Lindy Hulley (lindy.hulley@nhlstenden.com) from the Grand Tour Office prior to arrival to ensure that there is sufficient space. However, Port Alfred offers several outdoor activities that will provide students with the necessary surfboards, stand up paddles, canoes, and much more!

Do I need to bring my uniform?

All students are required to bring either their Stenden uniform or a smart suit with them. The IHM students need to bring their chef’s uniform as well. These are essential for site visits, presentations, functions and cooking practicals.

Is there a shopping mall in Port Alfred?

There are two shopping malls in Port Alfred where you can find clothing stores, pharmacies, surf shops and supermarkets, as well as a cinema.

Will I be picked up at the airport in Port Elizabeth?

Students who have notified Grand Tour Holland that they require an airport pick-up will be collected from Port Elizabeth airport between 12:00 and 15:00 on the Saturday and Sunday PRIOR to the commencement of the module. Students who arrive after 15:00 should book into the airport hotel for the night and be collected at 12:00 the following day. You will be met by a member of staff holding a Stenden South Africa sign and be taken to your accommodation in either Port Alfred or the Wildlife campus (Koffylaagte, Addo).

What if I have been travelling in South Africa for a week already and am making my own way to the campus?

Students making their own way to the campus can only check into their accommodation on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday prior to the module beginning. Students need to inform Grand Tour of their arrival day at campus and can only check into their accommodation between 15:00 and 17:00 on the Saturday and Sunday. Staff will be on campus until 17:00 on the Friday to assist with the check-in.

Will there be transport for my departure back home?

Yes, transport will be provided on the morning of your departure, back to the Port Elizabeth International airport. Students will need to provide your flight details to the Guest Relations Officer a week prior to your departure.