The Eastern Cape Province in South Africa is astoundingly diverse and, in parts, deliciously undeveloped. Inland, the rolling hills around Grahamstown are known as Settler Country, after the British migrants who settled these ancestral Xhosa lands in the early 19th century.
Map of Eastern Cape in South Africa
Travelers often overlook South African destinations like Grahamstown as they opt for larger cities throughout the country. However, Grahamstown has become famous as one of South African top cultural and educational destinations.
It is home to many of South Africa’s top academic, legal and religious institutions and has often been referred to as the ‘City of Scholars’ and the ‘City of Saints’ due to its many religious and educational facilities. With a good selection of restaurants and accommodation, Grahamstown is perhaps most famously known for playing host to two large festivals each year.
A Brief History of Grahamstown
Grahamstown was founded in 1812 by the British as part of their colonial expansion plan in South Africa. The years that followed saw increased tension between the local Xhosa tribe and the British Colonial Army. The following year saw the start of the 1820 Settlers program where British Settlers were encouraged to move to the Grahamstown area.
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People with an interest in British Colonial history will find this area of the Eastern Cape of great interest. The town was born in 1812 as a military outpost and grew as beleaguered settler families from Britain gave up trying to farm the hopelessly inadequate 40-hectare (100-acre) plots the government had given them in the hopes that farmers would secure the volatile frontier.
Despite its turbulent history, today Grahamstown is a vibrant cultural center thanks to Rhodes University and its many other educational institutions. Grahamstown is also often called the "city of saints," due to its many churches, which are said to number more than 40. The queen of them all is the splendid Cathedral of St. Michael and St.
Key Attractions in and around Grahamstown
If you don't have time for a tour, other attractions include the Observatory Museum, 10 Bathurst St.
The system of revolving lenses and mirrors projects a surprisingly detailed miniature moving image of the town on a flat viewing surface (the room is darkened). It has the only Victorian Camera Obscura in the Southern Hemisphere, in a small tower.
For more information on the town's accommodations and attractions, stop by the comprehensive Makana Tourism, 63 High St.
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Must-Visit Landmarks
- Church Square: Grand colonial edifices, university buildings, the 19th-century Anglican cathedral and colourful Victorian and Edwardian shopfronts all overlook this area.
- Birch’s Gentlemen’s Outfitters: It has a marvellously old-fashioned ‘slider’ (a pulley system that sends money. Birch’s is one of a number of historic shopfronts overlooking Church Sq.
- 1820 Settlers National Monument: This monument to the hardy British settlers and their contributions to South Africa has stupendous views of the surrounding countryside, and contains. This prominent monument was built to honor British accomplishments in South Africa. Take a walk though the beautiful gardens that surround it.
- Fort Selwyn: It was constructed to keep Grahamstown safe during the 1800s, but now presents an icon of the city’s history. Fort Selwyn sits on the ground of Rhodes University.
1820 Settlers National Monument
Museums and Cultural Institutions
- Albany Natural Science Museum: Covers a mishmash of subjects, from early human history to astronomy. The collection includes some impressive taxidermy and skeletons.
- National English Literary Museum: Features South African literary works, research and exhibits that detail the history of local authors.
- International Library of African Music: Look through the history of African music at this prominent library. Instruments are on display and visitors can listen to recordings from the most influential African artists.
- Albany Museum: Highlights the history of people from the Eastern Cape. Displays cover a wide range of historical subjects.
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity: Features areas for scientists and students. Its library highlights a collection of aquatic research on certain species.
Nature and Wildlife
Many nature reserves are found within a short drive of the city. In addition to these attractions, the Kwantu Elephant Sanctuary offers encounters many animals including kudu, baboons and leopards.
You find many places around the city to view local birds in their natural habitat. Take some time away from the city to enjoy the natural beauty along this hiking trail.
Local Experiences
- Shopping at Church Square: Try Church Square which features a shopping area as well as Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
- Makana Meadery: The Makana Meadery has several kinds of mead. Natural honey and candles are also made onsite.
- Festivals: Grahamstown features great festivals throughout the year. The Makana Freedom Festival promotes music and dance. Arts and crafts are on display at the National Arts Festival.
Nearby attractions:
- Amakhala Game Reserve
- Sibuya Game Reserve
- Kariega Game Reserve
- Pumba Private Game Reserve
- Big Pineapple
- Shamwari Game Reserve
Game Reserves Near Grahamstown:
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| Game Reserve | Description |
|---|---|
| Amakhala Game Reserve | Beautiful, tranquil, and easily accessible with a large diversity of fauna. |
| Sibuya Game Reserve | Wonderfully scenic place to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, white rhinos, elephants. |
| Kariega Game Reserve | Offers a chance to see the Big Five (although leopards are very. |
| Pumba Private Game Reserve | Home to the Big Five (including a pride of white lions - a rarity in Africa. |
| Shamwari Game Reserve | One of the most exclusive, luxurious and internationally renowned reserves. |
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