TRAVEL AND HOTEL

We are delighted to welcome you to the 2026 Natural Fibre Connect (NFC) Conference, hosted in the city of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa. This year’s event will be held at the Boardwalk Hotel Convention Centre on the 1st and 2nd of June 2026. Followed by Mill Tours in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) on 3rd June, as well farm visits at the Drostdy Hotel in Graaff Reinet, in the heart of the Karoo of South Africa on the 3rd, 4th and 5th of June 2026 .

Boardwalk Hotel & International Convention Centre
2nd Avenue, Summerstrand
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), 6001
Eastern Cape, South Africa

And

Drostdy Hotel
30 Church Street
Graaff-Reinet, 6280
Eastern Cape, South Africa

Conference participants will be responsible for booking and organising their travel to and from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) as well as their accommodation.
To assist with organising your journey to and from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), please find the following information on travel and hotel bookings. If you require any additional guidance or support, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@mohair.co.za

GETTING TO & AROUND PORT ELISABETH (GQEBERHA)

Port Elizabeth, now officially known as Gqeberha, is a friendly, compact coastal city that is easy to navigate for international visitors. The city is served by an international airport located just minutes from the main beachfront, hotels, and conference venues. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and private transfers are readily available, while most major hotels can assist with transport arrangements. With its relaxed pace, scenic coastline, and close proximity between key areas, getting in and around the city is convenient, safe, and efficient—allowing delegates to focus on enjoying their stay and the congress experience
The Boardwalk Convention Centre, situated 15 minutes from the airport, is easy to navigate between the conference venue, accommodation, and local attractions.

How to get into Port Elisabeth

Arriving in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) & Getting to the Boardwalk Convention Centre
Port Elizabeth, officially known as Gqeberha, is easily accessible via Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, located approximately 10 minutes from the city’s main beachfront and conference precinct. International delegates typically arrive via Johannesburg or Cape Town, with frequent daily connecting flights. (There are no direct international flights into Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). Upon landing, delegates can reach the Boardwalk Hotel & International Convention Centre by hotel shuttle, pre-arranged private transfer, or reputable ride-hailing services, all readily available at the airport. Taxis and transfers offer a quick, convenient journey directly to the beachfront, ensuring a smooth and welcoming start to your conference experience
We look forward to welcoming you to NFC 2026 in Port Elizabeth – safe travels!

ACCOMMODATION & HOTELS

 

Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. A selection of hotels and serviced apartments are conveniently located within walking distance or a short drive of the Boardwalk Hotel Convention Centre, making them ideal for congress delegates.
Preferred accommodation options close to the congress venue include:

Delegates are encouraged to book accommodation directly with their hotel of choice. Please quote “Natural Fibre Connect Congress” when booking, where applicable, to enquire about any special rates or congress-related arrangements.
Please note that hotel availability, rates, and cancellation policies are subject to change as the congress date approaches. Early booking is therefore recommended. A wide range of additional hotels and accommodation options are also available throughout the city should delegates wish to explore alternatives.
Should you require any assistance with accommodation or recommendations, please do not hesitate to contact the congress organisers at info@mohair.co.za

https://www.suninternational.com/boardwalk/conferencing/

https://www.thebeachhotel.co.za/

https://thecapital.co.za/boardwalk/

https://citylodgehotels.com/hotels/460/Courtyard-Hotel-Port-Elizabeth

https://citylodgehotels.com/hotels/160/city-lodge-hotel-gqeberha

VISA INFORMATION

Many international delegates do not require a visa to travel to South Africa for short-term conference attendance. South Africa offers visa-exempt entry for citizens of numerous countries for stays of up to 90 days.
Delegates are advised to check the specific visa requirements applicable to their nationality with their nearest South African embassy or consulate prior to travel, as entry conditions may vary. The congress organisers are happy to provide an official letter of invitation to support visa applications where required.
For visa related enquiries: https://www.dha.gov.za/consularservices/visa

EXPLORE EDINBURGH

Following the main conference days on 1 and 2 June, from the 3rd of June we will be hosting mill tours and excursions in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and Graaff Reinet, visiting various local South African manufacturers, farms, and cultural experiences relevant to natural fibres. This is a separate ticket to the main conference days and will include transportation to and from a central location near the conference venue, as well as lunch for ticket holders. Be sure to purchase your mill tour and excursion tickets so as not to miss out! More details coming soon! Additionally, conference attendees may wish to make the most of their visit to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), either before or after the event, as there is much to explore in the city & surrounds. Some notable historical and cultural attractions are listed below. Please note that ticket charges for visiting these sites may apply, so ensure to check when planning your trip.

Make the Most of Your Visit to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), offers international delegates the opportunity to extend their stay and experience some of South Africa’s most diverse natural and cultural attractions—all within easy reach of the city.

Make the Most of Your Visit to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

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Wildlife & Safari Experiences

Addo Elephant National Park – Just under an hour from the city, Addo is one of South Africa’s most celebrated national parks and home to over 600 elephants, as well as lions, buffalo, and a wide range of wildlife. Ideal for half-day or full-day safaris. Schotia Safaris Private Game Reserve – A popular option for delegates with limited time, Schotia offers close-up game viewing and guided safari experiences, including afternoon and evening drives with traditional dinner options. Shamwari Private Game Reserve – A world-renowned luxury safari destination, Shamwari is perfect for delegates wishing to indulge in a premium wildlife experience, combining conservation, luxury lodges, and exceptional game viewing.

Wildlife & Safari Experiences

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Coastal & City Experiences

Enjoy Port Elizabeth’s Blue Flag beaches, beachfront promenades, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Explore local restaurants, craft markets, and waterfront cafés along the city’s scenic coastline. Visit nearby heritage and cultural sites, offering insight into the Eastern Cape’s rich history.

Coastal & City Experiences

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Recommended Tour Guides Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

Tony’s Tours https://tonystours.co.za Gary Koekemoer https://www.intotours.co.za

Coastal & City Experiences

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Easy Extensions

Many safari reserves and attractions can be visited as day trips or overnight stays, making it easy to combine business with leisure. Conference organisers and hotels can assist with tour recommendations and transport arrangements. Whether you choose a Big Five safari, a coastal escape, or a cultural experience, Port Elizabeth offers unforgettable ways to enhance your conference journey.

Easy Extensions

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Recommended Tour Guides Graaff Reinet:

Tour Guide David http://www.karooconnections.co.za Karoo360 / Toerboer tours https://www.karoo360.co.za

Easy Extensions

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EXPLORE GRAFF-REINET AFTER CONFERENCE

Graaff-Reinet, known as the “Gem of the Karoo,” is one of South Africa’s most historic and scenic towns, offering delegates a perfect opportunity to explore history, culture, and wildlife.

Valley of Desolation

Located within Camdeboo National Park, this striking geological formation offers panoramic views and is ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

Valley of Desolation

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Historic Town Walks

Discover Graaff-Reinet’s charming streets filled with Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture, museums, and art galleries.

The Royal Mile & Grassmarket

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Karoo Wildlife & Nature

Visit nearby Camdeboo National Park or enjoy a full-day safari at Samara Private Game Reserve, a luxury conservation reserve home to the Big Five, providing an unforgettable Karoo wildlife experience.

Karoo Wildlife & Nature

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Bookings, transfers, and guided experiences.

Whether you seek dramatic landscapes, heritage charm, or a luxury safari adventure, Graaff-Reinet and Samara Private Game Reserve  offer experiences that will make your conference visit truly memorable.

bookings, transfers, and guided experiences.

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Local Culture & Cuisine

Sample traditional Karoo flavors at local restaurants and cafés, or explore craft shops and artisan markets. Many of these experiences can be enjoyed as half-day or full-day excursions, making it easy to combine conference participation with leisure. Conference organisers and local accommodation providers can assist delegates with tour

National Museum of Scotland

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