Graaff Reinet

Graaff Reinet Overview

Graaff Reinet may not be the busiest town, but what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in charm. There are about 22 farms in the town and its surrounds, and with the often harsh Karoo landscape broken up by the Camdeboo Park, the scenery is surprisingly lush and green. Accommodation options can be found across the town, with plenty of quaint bed and breakfasts and guest house type accommodation options that boast pretty gardens and beautifully restored features.

The town is home to a few restaurants, bars and taverns, along with shops and various facilities. While the nightlife is not quite on the scale of a larger town or city, an enjoyable evening can be spent sampling delicious meals and nursing an ice cold beer. Locals are always ready to welcome visitors and swap a story or two about the town’s history.
 

Highlights & Places in Graaff Reinet

Activities in Graaff Reinet range from safari tours all the way through to cultural excursions, with much to see and do in this charming town. The town’s proximity to Camdeboo National Park makes safaris easy to arrange. The park is home to a wealth of wildlife and birdlife, including species such as steenbok, springbok, blesbok, black wildebeest, bat-eared fox, meerkat, Red hartebeest, gemsbok and Cape mountain zebra. Safari tours include guided nature walks along with game drives through the park. Photographic opportunities abound, while bird watching is also excellent in this region. The Graaff Reinet Bird Club meet on a regular basis, and its members will be able to offer plenty of insight into the species found in the Karoo Heartlands.

Those who enjoy sightseeing and exploring have a number of options, from the wide range of monuments, to Reinet House – this monument is home to the world’s largest living grapevine, and also offers insight into the town founder’s history. The hamlet of Nieu-Bethesda is also worth a visit, while the Owl House is another fascinating glimpse into the diverse culture of the Karoo, boasting artwork and many interesting features.
 

Best Time to Visit Graaff Reinet

Graaff Reinet Weather

Graaff Reinet average temperatures range from 20°C to 40°C.

When to Go

Graaff Reinet weather is typical of Karoo climate. Summers are generally hot and dry, running from November to February. Autumn and spring bring mild weather, running from March to May and September to October. Winters can be cold – especially at night, running from June to August. Sunscreen is essential throughout the year, especially during the hot summers, when temperatures can reach the 40 degree Celsius mark. Warm jackets are also recommended, even during the summer months, as temperatures can drop at night. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Graaff Reinet

Graaff Reinet is about 250km from Port Elizabeth, and can be accessed via bus or car. International travellers will need to enter through Port Elizabeth Airport and transfer by road to Graaf Reinet. 

Getting Around Graaff Reinet

Getting around Graaff Reinet can be done by foot, car or cycle, with plenty of options to get to monuments, nature reserves and other attractions nearby. 

Graaff Reinet Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs/Currency/Money: as a small town, there are a few ATMs and banks in Graaff Reinet; however it is best to withdraw cash in Port Elizabeth before arriving in Graaff Reinet.

Internet Availability: some lodges and guest houses may have internet access, with an internet café or two in town.

Drinking Water: it is best to stick to bottled water, which is readily available at shops and cafes in town.

Hospitals & Medical: limited healthcare facilities are found – there are however hospitals and other facilities in Port Elizabeth.

Visa Requirements: most travellers do not require a visa to enter South Africa.

Graaff Reinet Map