Bayworld Museum
A historic Gqeberha museum with dinosaur exhibits and a reptile park, undergoing renovations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for kids
Bayworld Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for kids
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Gqeberha museum with dinosaur exhibits and a reptile park, undergoing renovations.
"A gem for kids and history lovers, despite needing renovations."
Check Aquarium Status
The aquarium is often closed for renovations. Confirm its status before your visit.
Embrace the Reptiles
The reptile park and snake shows are a major highlight for many visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Africa's Lost World
Museum Section
Explore prehistoric creatures, including a 15m whale skeleton and life-size dinosaur reconstructions.
Reptile Park & Snake Shows
Animal Enclosures
Marvel at the largest pythons and enjoy live snake shows where you can even touch a snake!
Historical Exhibits
Museum Sections
Discover unique displays on the history of Port Elizabeth, fashion, and early film.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Renovations
+1Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Aquarium Status
The aquarium is often closed for renovations. Confirm its status before your visit.
Embrace the Reptiles
The reptile park and snake shows are a major highlight for many visitors.
Bring Your Own Snacks
While staff may enforce no outside food, some visitors report seeing others eat.
Nostalgic Visit
Many locals revisit for a trip down memory lane, appreciating the history.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Aquarium Status
The aquarium is often closed for renovations. Confirm its status before your visit.
Embrace the Reptiles
The reptile park and snake shows are a major highlight for many visitors.
Bring Your Own Snacks
While staff may enforce no outside food, some visitors report seeing others eat.
Nostalgic Visit
Many locals revisit for a trip down memory lane, appreciating the history.
Focus on Dinosaurs
If the aquarium is closed, the dinosaur exhibits are a great alternative.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bayworld Museum in Gqeberha presents a mixed bag for visitors. While it holds nostalgic value and offers engaging exhibits like dinosaurs and reptiles, many reviews point to a significant need for maintenance and updates. The frequent closure of the aquarium due to renovations is a common drawback, leading to disappointment for some. Despite these issues, the affordable entry and unique historical and natural displays make it a worthwhile visit for many, especially families.
"Bayworld was once a treasured destination in Port Elizabeth. It held a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists, known for its engaging exhibits, vibrant marine life, and educational experiences. Families would visit with excitement, children wide-eyed as they watched dolphins leap through the air, or wandered through the museum filled with displays that brought the natural world to life. It was a place that inspired curiosity and created lasting memories. But those days feel like a distant dream.
Today, Bayworld is a heartbreaking sight. What once stood as a symbol of pride and learning has been reduced to a decaying, neglected space. The animal enclosures are in a dreadful state. Trash is scattered in and around them, with no effort made to keep the areas clean or safe. In some cases, there are even dead animals left in the enclosures, a truly disturbing sign of how far standards have fallen. It is difficult to understand how such a lack of care has been allowed to continue.
The entire facility feels forgotten. Dust clings to every surface, and windows are so dirty they block out the light. Once vibrant and informative displays have remained unchanged for over a decade, making the museum feel more like a time capsule than a living, educational space. Nothing has been updated, improved, or even maintained. The signs of decay are everywhere, from broken fixtures to faded posters and empty exhibit rooms. Visitors who remember Bayworld in its prime can only feel dismay at the contrast.
There is no sense of progress or rejuvenation. Instead, the space feels abandoned, not just physically but in spirit. The energy that once made Bayworld a place of joy and discovery has been completely lost. The sadness is made worse by the knowledge of what it used to be. It was a place that held potential to educate and inspire, a place that could have evolved and remained relevant. But that opportunity has been squandered.
Bayworld now serves as a grim reminder of what happens when a place is left to deteriorate without vision or care. The community deserves better. The animals deserve better. And the memories of what Bayworld used to be deserve more than this slow and painful decline. Until serious changes are made, it will remain not only a disappointment but a disgrace."
Xander de Klerk
"Went to bayworld the place is not too expensive but the ocean part was closed and we could only visit the dinosourus, meuseam and the reptiles. The gift shop was closed and years later it is still saying coming soon .
Some of the specimens was dry or broken.
Some of the displays was of or lights do not work. Some displayed objects was full of dust
The place really needs a revamp or maintenance as you will see the place is not getting maintenance on a regular basis.
Some people who work there is bias against some of the visitors as they will tell you no food and or drink allowed but when you walk up the stairs not only will you see the staff member munch on a burger you will also see other visitors eating and drinking.
There was also a meuseam tour but we were not given the opportunity to join the tour with the guide"
Bea
"We were welcomed by the friendly staff, they informed us that the aquarium is closed due to construction.
The museum is big, has a variety of things to look for. It was the first time I see fashion section in a museum. What was more interesting was a section that contains a list and things that happened first in PE.
The snake section is something else, saw the biggest python.
It was a nice experience, hope after the constructions the place will be maintained to standard."
Fredah Tabane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bayworld Museum is located in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). You can reach it by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or ride-sharing services is recommended. +1
Yes, Bayworld Museum is accessible by car and has parking facilities. It's a common stop for those exploring Gqeberha.
Bayworld Museum is situated in Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay. It's often mentioned alongside other local attractions like the Boardwalk Casino and Baywest Mall.
Ride-sharing apps are generally available in Gqeberha, making them a convenient option to reach Bayworld Museum.
Yes, Bayworld Museum is a known tourist attraction in Gqeberha, offering a mix of history and natural exhibits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees for Bayworld Museum are generally considered affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for families and individuals. Specific pricing can vary, so it's best to check their official website or inquire upon arrival.
While specific discount information isn't widely publicized, family packages or group rates might be available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the museum for any potential offers.
Bayworld Museum typically operates during standard daytime hours, but it's crucial to verify their current opening times, especially as renovations may affect schedules.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not readily available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets at the museum's entrance.
The aquarium at Bayworld Museum has been undergoing renovations and has been closed for extended periods. It's essential to check the latest status before your visit. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the 'Africa's Lost World' exhibition with dinosaur reconstructions, a reptile park with large pythons, and historical displays on Port Elizabeth. +1
Yes, Bayworld Museum often hosts live snake shows where visitors can learn about and even touch the reptiles.
This exhibit features fascinating prehistoric creatures, including a 15-meter whale skeleton and life-size dinosaur models.
Yes, Bayworld Museum is generally considered kid-friendly, with exhibits like dinosaurs and reptiles often a hit with younger visitors.
You can explore displays on the history of Port Elizabeth, fashion through the ages, and the development of film.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be a gift shop, dedicated dining facilities are not prominently mentioned. Some visitors note that outside food and drink policies can be inconsistently enforced.
The official policy may state no outside food or drinks, but some visitors have observed this rule not being strictly followed by all.
Bayworld Museum is located in Gqeberha, where various dining options are available. Nearby attractions like the Boardwalk Casino also offer food establishments.
Gqeberha offers a diverse culinary scene, from local South African cuisine to international flavors. Markets also provide various food stalls.
A gift shop is usually present at Bayworld Museum, though some reviews mention it being closed or having 'coming soon' signs for extended periods.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Bayworld Museum for personal use. However, it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions, especially around sensitive exhibits.
The dinosaur reconstructions in 'Africa's Lost World', the diverse reptiles in the park, and the historical displays offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, you can typically take photos during the snake shows, but be mindful of the presenter and avoid flash photography that might disturb the animals.
Drone usage is subject to national aviation regulations and local bylaws. It's unlikely to be permitted within the museum premises.
Expect photos of prehistoric creatures, various reptiles, historical artifacts, and potentially glimpses of the museum's architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
You can explore displays detailing the city's history, fashion through the ages, and even the evolution of film. While some displays may be dated, they provide a valuable glimpse into the region's heritage and the natural world that once inhabited it. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The State of Bayworld: Renovations and Reality
Some visitors report seeing parts of the museum in need of maintenance, with dust on displays and non-functional lights, leading to a feeling of neglect. Despite the challenges, key attractions continue to draw visitors. The 'Africa's Lost World' exhibition, featuring impressive dinosaur reconstructions and a significant whale skeleton, remains a highlight.
The reptile park, home to large pythons and offering live snake shows, is another popular draw, providing an interactive experience for all ages. Travelers are advised to manage their expectations, as the aquarium has been closed for extended periods due to construction.
Exploring Gqeberha's Attractions
Social media content highlights Gqeberha as a vibrant city with much to offer. Videos showcase local markets, often described as family-oriented with plenty of food options, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
When planning a trip to Bayworld, consider incorporating visits to other Gqeberha attractions to create a well-rounded itinerary. This approach allows visitors to experience the full spectrum of what the Nelson Mandela Bay area has to offer, from historical museums to modern entertainment venues and relaxing wellness retreats.
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