Things To Do
in Queenstown
Queenstown, South Africa sits in the Eastern Cape’s rolling landscapes, offering a gateway to rural scenery and friendly local culture. The town blends colonial charm with vibrant Xhosa and Afrikaans influences, visible in markets, craft shops, and eateries. Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, scenic vistas, and opportunities for outdoor adventures just beyond town.
The climate and rural setting make it a rewarding base for exploring the region's farmland, rivers, and mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes in the historic center of Queenstown. Wander through the streets, taking in the well-preserved Victorian architecture that tells the story of the town's rich history. Don’t miss a visit to the Queenstown Museum to learn about the region's heritage and its significance in the Eastern Cape.
After lunch, take a guided walking tour to delve deeper into Queenstown's past, visiting notable landmarks like the Old Post Office and the iconic Queenstown Railway Station. Enjoy some shopping at local craft markets, where you can find unique handmade goods and souvenirs. Spend some time at the picturesque Queen's Park, relaxing amidst its beautiful gardens and scenery.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor traditional South African cuisine, perhaps trying a delicious bobotie or braai. After dinner, stroll through the town center where you might catch a live music performance or an art exhibition. End your evening with a nightcap at a local pub, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Queenstown.
Begin your morning with an energizing breakfast before heading out to Longhill Nature Reserve, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend the morning hiking along scenic trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the reserve is home to various species of birds and small mammals.
After a packed morning, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty of the reserve, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon engaging in thrilling activities such as mountain biking or rock climbing, both of which are available in this stunning setting. Capture the breathtaking landscapes with your camera to preserve these memories.
Return to Queenstown as the day winds down and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local eatery. Savor regional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients while sharing stories of your adventures. If time allows, consider visiting a local tavern to enjoy some traditional music and connect with the friendly community.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at midrange cafe | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $35-60 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and rich cultural heritage
- Access to scenic rural landscapes and hiking opportunities
- Affordability relative to major coastal cities
- Compact town center with easy accessibility
- Limited direct international flight options
- Public transport can be less frequent outside town center
- Certain safety concerns after dark in isolated areas
- "Molo" - Hello (one person)
- "Molweni" - Hello (everyone)
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Enkosi" - Thank you
- "Ndiyabulela" - I am grateful / thank you
Places to Visit in Queenstown
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular high-point offering panoramic views of the town, farmland, and distant ridges—especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.
Colorful storefronts and market stalls provide vibrant street photography opportunities with locals and vendors in action.
Historic buildings and architectural details along the main streets create compelling composition and texture.
Calm water reflections and nature along the riverbanks, ideal for tranquil landscape or candid shots.
Food in Queenstown
Queenstown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal porridge (pap) served with meat (vleis); a staple combination found in many local eateries and homes.
Must-Try!
Samp and beans stew cooked slowly with aromatics; a comforting, traditional dish often served with braai or grilled meat.
Spicy vegetable relish used as a side or topping for mains, adding heat and brightness.
Slow-cooked meat and vegetables in a thick stew prepared in a cast-iron pot over coals; a social, communal dish.
Dried cured meat snack, widely available in markets and shops; great for a quick bite on the go.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, braai ingredients, baked goods, and crafts; a good place to sample snacks and chat with vendors.
Street stalls along main lanes offering quick bites like fat cakes, vetkoek, and grilled skewers—great for tasting regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or verbal greeting is common; addressing people with respect is appreciated. If engaging with locals, a warm “Hello” and “Thank you” goes a long way.
Respect for Xhosa and Afrikaans customs, especially during local events and ceremonies; ask before taking photos of people or private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Queenstown
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, typically 5-10% in restaurants if no service charge is included; small tips for taxi drivers or guides are common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places now support tap-to-pay. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; afternoons can be sunny with comfortable temperatures. Ideal for outdoor markets, hill walks, and long evenings outdoors.
Milder days with cooler nights; frost and chilly mornings can occur. Layered clothing recommended for outdoor activities and market strolls.
Fresh greenery and budding wildlife; pleasant daytime temperatures with occasional showers. Great for photography and strolling through markets.
Moderate temperatures and colorful foliage in surrounding hills; excellent light for landscapes and city photography.
Queenstown at Night
Hiking in Queenstown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular 3- to 4-hour hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding farmland.
Scenic river valley hike with wildlife watching and picnic spots along the route.
Moderate day hike showcasing rolling foothills and distant viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Queenstown by plane.
Regional airport serving the Eastern Cape with domestic connections; about a 2–3 hour drive from Queenstown depending on route.
Major regional hub with international and domestic flights; typically serves as a gateway for longer trips in the region.
Smaller regional airport serving local routes; consider for more remote or multi-destination itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong historical presence with cultural and linguistic influence in businesses and communities.
Significant local population with rich cultural traditions and languages evident in daily life.
Widely understood and used in tourism, commerce, and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant sport in the region with local clubs and community support.
Seasonal sport with local leagues and matches; often played in parks and grounds during the summer.
Widely followed and played; local leagues and friendly matches are common weekend activities.
Several scenic courses in the broader region suitable for visitors and locals alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Queenstown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many venues offer vegetarian options such as pap with veggie stews, chakalaka, salads, and vegetable curries; ask for plant-based alternatives or side dishes like mieliepap and morogo.