Things To Do
in Grahamstown
Grahamstown, officially known as Makhanda, is a historic town in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is renowned for its annual National Arts Festival, which attracts visitors from around the country and the world. The town is home to Rhodes University, a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence.
Grahamstown features a mix of colonial architecture, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking history, arts, and outdoor adventures.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the renowned Albany Museum, discovering the rich natural and cultural history of the region. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café afterward.
Stroll down the historic streets and admire the Victorian architecture. Visit the Settlers’ Monument for a panoramic view of the city and learn about its significance.
Dine at a cozy restaurant, sampling traditional South African cuisine. End the evening with a walk in the nearby parks under the starlit sky.
Visit the 1820 Settlers National Monument to understand the history behind the settlers. Engage with the interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.
Head to the local artisan markets for unique crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a café and soak in the local atmosphere.
Catch a play or live music performance at the Makana Arts and Culture Centre. Experience the vibrant arts scene that Grahamstown is famous for.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
- Home to Rhodes University, providing a vibrant academic atmosphere.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including hills and rivers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- A laid-back lifestyle with a close-knit community feel.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in South Africa.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for graduates outside of education.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in major urban centers.
- Infrastructure can be lacking in certain areas, such as public transport.
- Some crime-related safety concerns, typical of many South African towns.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with hot summers and chilly winters.
Best Activities in Grahamstown
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or hike through the beautiful gardens and take in the diverse plant life and scenic views.
Visit the local stone artisan village to see skilled craftsmen creating unique sculptures and learn about the art of stone carving.
Pack a picnic and spend a relaxing day by the Settlers Dam, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Grahamstown with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Grahamstown
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Grahamstown and surrounding landscape
Beautiful campus with picturesque spots for photo opportunities
Historic site with stunning views of the city and surroundings
Scenic viewpoint overlooking Grahamstown
Food in Grahamstown
Grahamstown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try South African snack made from dried and seasoned meat, available at local butcheries like Lucas Meats and the Village Green Grocer.
Must-Try!
A fragrant and spicy minced meat dish topped with an egg-based layer, commonly found at restaurants such as The Rat and Parrot or Red Café.
A traditional slow-cooked stew prepared in a three-legged cast iron pot, often served at events and gatherings, and occasionally at the Victoria Mxenge Hall market on selected days.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Grahamstown better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of street food options, from traditional South African meals to international delicacies. Look out for the Bunny Chow stand for a taste of Durban's famous curry-filled bread.
A charming market where you can savor freshly prepared local street food like vetkoek (deep-fried dough filled with savory mince) and koeksisters (sweet, syrupy fried dough).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Grahamstown, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.
It is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
Showing respect for local traditions and customs, such as participating in traditional ceremonies or rituals with humility and openness, is highly valued in Grahamstown.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Grahamstown with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Grahamstown
Ensure a smooth experience
In Grahamstown, South Africa, tipping is generally practiced in restaurants, bars, and for services such as tour guides and taxi drivers. A 10% to 15% gratuity is customary in these establishments, although it is always best to check if a service charge has already been included in the bill.
Payment in Grahamstown, South Africa, is primarily done using South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, and ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Grahamstown.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is one of the best times to visit Grahamstown, as the weather is pleasant with blooming flowers and greenery. The famous National Arts Festival is held in July, making it an exciting time to experience the city's vibrant arts scene.
Summers in Grahamstown are warm and dry, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the nearby beaches. However, it's important to be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures and exploring the surrounding natural attractions.
Winters in Grahamstown are cool and crisp, with occasional frost. It's a great time for experiencing the local culture and history, as well as enjoying cozy indoor activities.
Grahamstown at Night
Hiking in Grahamstown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This nature reserve features a range of hiking trails with stunning views over the landscape and a variety of flora and fauna.
A collection of well-marked trails around Grahamstown offering both short and long hikes suitable for all skill levels.
A popular spot for locals, this hill offers hiking paths that lead to a viewpoint overlooking the town, ideal for both hiking and picnicking.
Although primarily a game reserve, it has hiking opportunities with the chance to see wildlife and beautiful scenery.
Located a short drive from Grahamstown, these coastal trails provide both beach and forest hiking experiences.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Grahamstown through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Grahamstown by plane.
Located approximately 80 kilometers from Grahamstown, this airport serves the city of Port Elizabeth and offers domestic flights as well as limited international services.
Situated about 125 kilometers away from Grahamstown, East London Airport provides domestic flights and is the nearest airport to East London.
Located around 600 kilometers from Grahamstown, King Shaka International Airport serves Durban and is a major international gateway in the region.
Approximately 800 kilometers from Grahamstown, Cape Town International Airport is the primary international airport in Cape Town and one of the busiest in Africa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily Xhosa-speaking individuals, constituting the majority of the population in Grahamstown.
This group includes people of mixed ancestry, reflecting a blend of Indigenous, African, and European influences.
This group includes individuals of European descent, primarily Afrikaners and English speakers.
A smaller demographic group, consisting mainly of individuals of Indian descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
The Soul of Grahamstown
Discover the essence of Grahamstown through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Grahamstown, with a strong local following and several clubs participating in regional competitions.
Cricket enjoys great popularity in Grahamstown, with various teams and community leagues contributing to the sport's vibrancy.
Soccer is widely played and supported in Grahamstown, featuring local teams and enthusiastic fans, particularly among the youth.
Athletics has a dedicated following in Grahamstown, with events organized for schools and clubs throughout the year.
Netball is popular among women in Grahamstown, with schools and local leagues facilitating competitive play.
Field hockey is also a favored sport in Grahamstown, with various clubs and tournaments actively promoting the game.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Grahamstown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Grahamstown have diverse vegetarian and vegan offerings. Notable options include the vegan-friendly dishes at The Rat and Parrot and the delightful vegetarian platters at The Rat and Parrot.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary requirements will find accommodating menus at places like Red Café, where gluten-free pasta and bread are readily available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Grahamstown with these cultural adventures.
