Things To Do
in Queenstown
Queenstown is a picturesque town situated in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers stunning scenery. The town is known for its rich history, with many historic buildings and sites to explore.
Queenstown also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and golfing for nature enthusiasts.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk around Queenstown to soak in the beautiful landscapes. Visit the nearby parks for some fresh air and photography opportunities.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local café and then take a drive to the historic sites around Queenstown. Explore the local history and culture through the various museums.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing evening at a local restaurant. Savor traditional South African dishes while enjoying live music.
Get your adrenaline pumping with a morning hike in the surrounding hills. The views from the top are breathtaking and worth the effort.
After hiking, treat yourself to a picnic lunch by the river. Spend the afternoon kayaking or fishing in the calm waters.
Return to the town for a cozy dinner at a grill house. Enjoy a barbecue feast under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with breathtaking landscapes and mountains.
- Rich historical significance and a vibrant cultural heritage.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and cycling are readily available.
- A close-knit community with friendly locals.
- Opportunities for wine tasting and local culinary experiences.
- Limited access to major urban amenities and services.
- Economic opportunities may be scarce, especially for young professionals.
- Potential for extreme weather conditions, including cold winters.
- Transportation options may be limited, making it hard to travel to nearby towns.
- Safety concerns regarding crime in certain areas.
Best Activities in Queenstown
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the thrill of freefalling while enjoying breathtaking views of the landscape.
Feel an adrenaline rush as you leap from the world's highest commercial bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge.
Explore the scenic trails of the Tsitsikamma National Park or the Robberg Nature Reserve.
Take on the waves at J-Bay, one of the world's most famous surfing spots.
Tours
Uncover the best of Queenstown with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Queenstown
Visit one of these nice places.
Great views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset shots.
Offers panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. Ideal for both day and night photography.
Provides stunning vistas of Queenstown, the lake, and the Remarkables. The 'Basket of Dreams' sculpture offers a unique photo opportunity.
Food in Queenstown
Queenstown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential South African barbecue dish featuring a variety of meats such as boerewors (sausage), steak, and lamb chops, seasoned with local spices. Best enjoyed at local social gatherings and braai stands.
Must-Try!
A popular street food consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with flavorful curry. Look for this tasty dish at local eateries and food stalls around town.
A slow-cooked stew prepared in a three-legged cast-iron pot, showcasing a delicious medley of meats, vegetables, and spices. Often savored at family gatherings or specialized restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of town, this vibrant market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Visitors can sample an assortment of treats while immersing themselves in the buzzing atmosphere.
A bustling hub for diverse street food delights, from delectable samoosas and vetkoek to traditional grilled meats. This market provides an authentic culinary experience with a range of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Queenstown, South Africa, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. This shows respect and friendliness.
Being polite and using formal titles when addressing people, especially elders, is highly valued in Queenstown's culture.
When visiting someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift such as flowers, a bottle of wine, or sweets as a gesture of appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Queenstown
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in South Africa, but it is customary to tip around 10% for good service in restaurants and for services such as tour guides and hotel staff.
Payment in Queenstown, South Africa is primarily done using cash or credit/debit cards. Many businesses accept major credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and in case of any technical issues with card machines.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in Queenstown with warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal precipitation. It's ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports. The town is bustling with events and festivals during this time.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change color. It's a great time for wine tasting, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures. The town is less crowded, offering a more serene experience.
Winter in Queenstown is chilly with occasional snowfall, especially in the surrounding mountains. It's perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The town has a cozy atmosphere with fireplace-lit cafes and warm hospitality.
Springtime brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The town comes alive with a sense of renewal, and it's a fantastic time for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Queenstown at Night
Hiking in Queenstown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and panoramic sea views, offering several hiking trails with diverse landscapes.
Home to scenic coastal trails that allow hikers to explore breathtaking views of the ocean and, during season, spot whales from the cliffs.
A beautiful trail that takes you through unique fynbos vegetation, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and plant species.
This reserve offers various hiking trails through pristine landscapes including marine reserves, with trails ranging from easy to moderate.
Located nearby, it features diverse hiking trails with vistas of the ocean, mountains, and plentiful flora and fauna.
Aiports
How to reach Queenstown by plane.
Located in Johannesburg, approximately 600 km from Queenstown, this is the largest international airport in South Africa.
Situated in Cape Town, around 800 km from Queenstown, it is the second largest international airport in South Africa.
Located in Durban, approximately 900 km away from Queenstown, this is another major international airport in the country.
Located in Port Elizabeth, roughly 400 km from Queenstown, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Queenstown, consisting of various ethnicities with a rich cultural heritage.
A significant demographic group that includes mixed-race individuals with diverse backgrounds.
This group primarily consists of individuals of European descent, contributing to the area's multicultural landscape.
A smaller demographic group with roots tracing back to the Indian subcontinent, involved in various local businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in Queenstown, with many local clubs and schools participating in leagues and tournaments.
Cricket holds a significant place in the community, with local cricket clubs and school teams actively competing.
Soccer is widely played and followed, with numerous teams representing the community in various competitions.
Netball is a popular sport among women in Queenstown, with many schools and clubs actively involved.
Athletics is encouraged in schools, and there are various local events that promote running and field sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Queenstown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Queenstown offer vegetarian and vegan choices, ranging from fresh salads and vegetable curries to plant-based burgers and wraps. Visitors with these dietary preferences will find ample options to satisfy their appetites.
Many dining establishments in Queenstown cater to gluten-free dietary needs, offering dishes such as grilled fish, rice bowls, and gluten-free pastas. It's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions to ensure a pleasurable dining experience.