Fun Things to Do in Grahamstown | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Grahamstown Travel Guide
Quick overview of Grahamstown with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Grahamstown Travel Videos
- Plan Grahamstown Trip
- Things To Do In Grahamstown
- Tours And Activities In Grahamstown
- Best Time To Visit Grahamstown
- Flight Calendar For Grahamstown
- Best Areas To Stay In Grahamstown
- Hotels Map Of Grahamstown
- Transportation To Grahamstown
- Nearby Destinantion From Grahamstown
Welcome to Grahamstown! Located in the Eastern Cape province, this charming city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. As the home of Rhodes University, Grahamstown is a hub of intellectual and artistic activity, hosting the renowned National Arts Festival every year. Visitors can explore the city's fascinating colonial architecture, visit the iconic Cathedral of St Michael and St George, or take a stroll through the picturesque botanical gardens. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the nearby game reserves, where they can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. With its warm hospitality and diverse attractions, Grahamstown is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic South African experience.
Grahamstown Travel Videos
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Plan Grahamstown Trip
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Things To Do In Grahamstown
Grahamstown, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Grahamstown:
1. Explore the historic architecture of the city: Grahamstown is known for its well-preserved Victorian and Georgian buildings. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the beautiful facades and ornate details.
2. Visit the 1820 Settlers National Monument: This monument commemorates the arrival of the British settlers in South Africa. Climb to the top of the monument for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
3. Attend the National Arts Festival: Grahamstown is home to the largest arts festival in Africa. Held annually in July, the festival showcases a wide range of performing arts, including theater, music, and dance.
4. Explore the Rhodes University Campus: Take a guided tour of the prestigious university and learn about its history and academic achievements. The campus is known for its beautiful grounds and impressive architecture.
5. Visit the Observatory Museum: This museum is located in the oldest observatory in South Africa. Learn about the history of astronomy in the country and explore the exhibits on display.
6. Go on a game drive at a nearby game reserve: Grahamstown is surrounded by game reserves where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. Join a guided safari and experience the thrill of seeing these magnificent animals up close.
Tours And Activities In Grahamstown
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Best Time To Visit Grahamstown
The best time to visit Grahamstown is during the summer months of December to February. This is when the city experiences its warmest temperatures and lowest chance of rainfall. Additionally, this is also the time when the Grahamstown National Arts Festival takes place, which is a major cultural event in the city. However, it is important to note that Grahamstown can get quite crowded during this time, so it is advisable to book accommodations and tickets in advance.
Flight Calendar For Grahamstown
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Grahamstown.
Best Areas To Stay In Grahamstown
Grahamstown offers several great areas for accommodation.
1. Rhini: Rhini is a popular area for accommodation in Grahamstown. It is located close to the Rhodes University campus, making it an ideal choice for students and academics. Rhini offers a range of housing options, including apartments and houses, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to amenities such as shops and restaurants.
2. Oatlands: Oatlands is another sought-after area for accommodation in Grahamstown. It is known for its leafy streets and beautiful homes, making it a great choice for families and professionals. Oatlands offers a mix of spacious houses and townhouses, and is conveniently located near schools, parks, and the city center.
3. Sunset View: Sunset View is a newer residential area in Grahamstown that offers modern and stylish accommodation options. It is situated on the outskirts of the town, providing residents with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Sunset View offers a range of housing types, including apartments and townhouses, and is known for its peaceful and scenic environment.
4. Fingo Village: Fingo Village is a vibrant and culturally diverse area in Grahamstown. It offers affordable accommodation options, including flats and houses, making it a popular choice for students and young professionals. Fingo Village is located close to the city center and is known for its lively atmosphere, with various community events and markets taking place regularly.
5. West Hill: West Hill is a prestigious area in Grahamstown that offers luxurious accommodation options. It is known for its grand Victorian-style homes and well-maintained gardens. West Hill is a popular choice for families and professionals looking for a tranquil and upscale living environment. The area is conveniently located near schools, parks, and amenities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle.
Overall, Grahamstown offers a variety of areas for accommodation, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Whether you are a student, professional, or family, you are sure to find a suitable area that meets your needs and preferences.
Hotels Map Of Grahamstown
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Grahamstown.
Transportation To Grahamstown
There are several transportation options to get to Grahamstown.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Grahamstown is Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), which is approximately 130 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shuttle service to Grahamstown.
2. By Car: You can drive to Grahamstown from major cities in South Africa. The N2 highway connects Grahamstown to Port Elizabeth (approximately 130 kilometers) and East London (approximately 180 kilometers). The drive from Port Elizabeth takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, while the drive from East London takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
3. By Bus: Several bus companies operate routes to Grahamstown from major cities in South Africa. Companies like Intercape, Greyhound, and Translux offer regular bus services to Grahamstown. The duration of the bus journey depends on the departure location, but it typically takes around 2 to 4 hours.
4. By Train: Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Grahamstown. The nearest train station is in Port Elizabeth, and from there, you would need to take a bus or taxi to reach Grahamstown.
It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of transportation options before planning your trip to Grahamstown.
Nearby Destination From Grahamstown
1. Port Elizabeth: A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
2. East London: A charming coastal town with a rich history and stunning natural landscapes.
3. Makhanda: A historic town famous for its annual National Arts Festival and beautiful Victorian architecture.
4. Fort Beaufort: A small town surrounded by picturesque mountains and known for its historical significance during the Frontier Wars.
5. Alice: A quaint village home to the University of Fort Hare and the Steve Biko Garden of Remembrance.
6. King William's Town: A town with a rich Xhosa heritage and historical sites such as the Amathole Museum and the Bisho Massacre Memorial.
7. Peddie: A rural town known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
8. Bathurst: A charming village famous for its Big Pineapple landmark and annual Bathurst Agricultural Show.
9. Alexandria: A small farming town surrounded by lush greenery and known for its citrus orchards.
10. Kenton-on-Sea: A coastal resort town offering pristine beaches, wildlife reserves, and water sports activities.