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Stays in Grahamstown
Grahamstown, known since 2018 as Makhanda, is a historic city in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It was founded in 1812 as a military outpost and later became a centre for education and culture. The city is home to Rhodes University, one of the country's oldest universities, and hosts the National…
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About Grahamstown
Where to stay in Grahamstown
Central Grahamstown. The city centre offers convenient access to historic sites, restaurants, and the university, with a mix of hotels and guesthouses.
West Hill. A leafy, upscale neighbourhood close to the cathedral and schools, featuring many guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts.
Sunnyside. A quieter residential area within walking distance of the centre, with several self-catering cottages and small hotels.
Oatlands. Located near the university and the 1820 Settlers Monument, this area has a selection of guesthouses popular with festival visitors.
Getting there and around
Grahamstown is accessible by road, approximately 130 kilometres from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and about 900 kilometres from Cape Town. The nearest major airport is in Port Elizabeth, which has domestic flights; from there, you can rent a car or take a bus. Intercity bus services connect Grahamstown with major cities. Within the city, walking is feasible in the centre, but a car is useful for exploring surrounding areas. Local taxis and ride-hailing services are available, though less frequent than in larger cities.
When to go
The best time to visit Grahamstown is during the dry winter months from May to September, when days are mild and sunny. However, the National Arts Festival in late June and early July draws large crowds, so book accommodation well in advance. Summer (October to March) can be hot, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer visitors.
Questions, answered
What is Grahamstown known for?
Grahamstown is known for its rich history, Rhodes University, and the annual National Arts Festival. It also has a high concentration of historic buildings and schools.
Is Grahamstown the same as Makhanda?
Yes, in 2018 the city was officially renamed Makhanda. Both names are used, though Grahamstown remains common in tourism and among locals.
How do I get to Grahamstown from Cape Town?
The drive from Cape Town takes about 10 to 12 hours. Alternatively, you can fly to Port Elizabeth and drive or take a bus to Grahamstown, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
What is the National Arts Festival?
It is an annual multi-arts festival held in Grahamstown, typically in June and July. It features theatre, music, dance, and visual arts, attracting performers and audiences from across Africa and beyond.
Are there game reserves near Grahamstown?
Yes, several private game reserves are located in the surrounding Eastern Cape region, offering wildlife safaris and accommodation. Shamwari is one of the well-known reserves in the area.
What is the climate like in Grahamstown?
Grahamstown has a mild climate with warm summers and cool winters. Rainfall occurs mainly in summer, and winter nights can be chilly.