Grahamstown South Africa Map

Top Attractions

Grahamstown, also known as Makhanda, is a small town located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is home to several top attractions that are worth visiting. The first is the National Arts Festival, which takes place annually in June and July. The festival is the largest of its kind in Africa and is a celebration of art, music, dance, and theater. Another attraction is the 1820 Settlers National Monument, which commemorates the arrival of British settlers in the area in the early 19th century. The monument includes a museum and a library.

Hidden Gems

Thomas Baines Nature Reserve

If you are looking for a hidden gem in Grahamstown, head to the Thomas Baines Nature Reserve. This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The reserve also has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Fort Selwyn

Another hidden gem in Grahamstown is Fort Selwyn. This fort was built in the 1800s and was used during the Frontier Wars. Today, it is a national monument and a popular spot for picnics and walks.

Food Scene

Grahamstown has a vibrant food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. One of the top restaurants in town is The Rat and Parrot, which offers a variety of dishes, including burgers, pizzas, and salads. Another popular spot is Café D’vine, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are traveling to Grahamstown on a budget, there are several tips that can help you save money. First, consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse instead of a hotel. These options are often cheaper and offer a more authentic experience. Second, take advantage of the free activities in town, such as hiking and visiting the museums.

Outdoor Adventures

Grahamstown is surrounded by natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for outdoor adventures. One of the top activities is hiking in the nearby mountains, which offer stunning views of the landscape. Another popular activity is game drives, where you can see wildlife up close and personal.

Historical Landmarks

Grahamstown has a rich history, and there are several historical landmarks in town that are worth visiting. The first is the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, which was built in the early 1800s. Another landmark is the Provost Prison, which was used to house prisoners during the Frontier Wars.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you are traveling with children, there are several family-friendly activities in Grahamstown. The first is the Albany Museum, which has exhibits on natural history, cultural history, and art. Another activity is a visit to the Makana Botanical Gardens, which has a variety of plants and animals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Grahamstown, consider visiting the nearby towns of Alicedale and Riebeeck East. These towns offer a glimpse into rural South African life and are home to several historical landmarks.

Natural Wonders

Grahamstown is surrounded by natural wonders, including the Fish River Canyon and the Addo Elephant National Park. The Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world and is a popular spot for hiking. The Addo Elephant National Park is home to over 600 elephants and offers safari tours.

Vibrant Nightlife

Grahamstown has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs in town. One of the top spots is the Rat and Parrot, which offers live music and a variety of drinks. Another popular spot is the Red Cafe, which has a laid-back atmosphere.

Local Markets

If you are looking for local markets in Grahamstown, head to the Farmers Market. This market is held on Saturdays and offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

Grahamstown is located near several beaches and mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top beaches include Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred, which offer swimming, surfing, and other water sports. The nearby mountains offer hiking, camping, and mountain biking.

Cultural Immersion

Grahamstown is home to several cultural attractions, including the National Arts Festival and the Settler’s Monument. These attractions offer a glimpse into the town’s history and culture.

Art and Music Scene

Grahamstown has a thriving art and music scene, with several galleries and live music venues in town. One of the top galleries is the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, which has a collection of contemporary South African art. Another popular venue is the Rhodes Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

Walking Tours

If you want to explore Grahamstown on foot, consider taking a walking tour. These tours offer a guided experience of the town’s top attractions and hidden gems.

Architectural Marvels

Grahamstown is home to several architectural marvels, including the Cathedral of St Michael and St George and the Provost Prison. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the town’s history and architecture.

Historical Sites

Grahamstown has a rich history, and there are several historical sites in town that are worth visiting. The first is the 1820 Settlers National Monument, which commemorates the arrival of British settlers in the area in the early 19th century. Another site is the Provost Prison, which was used to house prisoners during the Frontier Wars.

Biking Routes

Grahamstown has several biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the top routes include the Fish River Canyon and the Addo Elephant National Park.

Wellness Retreats

If you are looking for a wellness retreat in Grahamstown, consider visiting the nearby town of Bathurst. This town offers several wellness retreats that focus on meditation, yoga, and other holistic practices.

Adventure Sports

Grahamstown is a great destination for adventure sports, including hiking, mountain biking, and game drives. The nearby mountains offer stunning views and challenging trails, while the game drives offer a chance to see wildlife up close and personal.

Overall, Grahamstown is a great destination for travelers who want to explore South Africa’s natural beauty and rich history. With its top attractions, hidden gems, vibrant food scene, and outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this small town.