Grahamstown Airport

Historic frontier town blending academia, culture, and natural beauty.

Grahamstown, recently officially renamed Makhanda, sits in the Eastern Cape at the edge of the Great Karoo and Settler Country. Founded as a British military post in 1812, it grew into a hub of colonial history, missionary activity, and education, home to Rhodes University and some of South Africa's finest schools.

The city is internationally renowned for hosting the National Arts Festival every July, one of the largest arts festivals on the African continent, drawing performers and visitors from around the world. Outside festival season, Makhanda offers a quieter, walkable charm defined by Victorian architecture, excellent museums, and proximity to malaria-free game reserves.

Despite its cultural prestige, the city faces significant socioeconomic challenges including persistent water supply issues, so visitors should come prepared and remain sensitive to the local context.

• •Albany Museum Complex — a network of natural history, settler history, and science museums in the heart of town.
• •1820 Settlers Monument — hilltop arts venue and memorial honoring British settler heritage with sweeping city views.
• •Provost Prison — well-preserved 1838 blockhouse offering a glimpse into frontier-era colonial justice.
• •Cathedral of St Michael and St George — striking Gothic Revival Anglican cathedral dominating the city center.
• •Grahamstown Botanical Garden — small, peaceful garden ideal for birdwatching and a quiet afternoon stroll.
• •Kwantu Private Game Reserve — nearby malaria-free reserve offering Big Five game drives within easy day-trip distance.

Getting around: There is no passenger rail service to Makhanda. Intercape and other long-distance buses connect the city to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), roughly 130 km away, which is the nearest major transport hub. Within town, shared minibus taxis are the primary public transport option and are affordable but can be confusing for first-time visitors. The compact city center is easily walkable, and local guesthouses can typically arrange car hire or trusted taxi drivers for day trips.

Best time: July is the most exciting time to visit for the National Arts Festival, while spring months of September and October offer mild weather and green landscapes ideal for exploring the outdoors.

Local food: Try a traditional South African braai at a local guesthouse, look for umngqusho (samp and beans) at community eateries, and sample the excellent coffee and baked goods at the cafes surrounding Rhodes University campus.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.