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There are two good reasons to visit Grahamstown South Africa on vacation: history and art. The city is situated 60 km (37 miles) East of Alicedale and 120 km (75 miles) northeast of Port Elizabeth. It can pass for an English country town was not there for the burgeoning of poor townships that are shanty so much part of the urban South Africa. But these townships make their own cultural contribution to this historic community. The central area is small enough to be explored on foot, but for the rest of it, you will need a car. The quality of the roads range from good to poor.

British Garrison City

Visitors to South Africa holidays with a taste for history will be interested to know that Grahamstown was founded by the British in the early 19th century as a garrison town to keep what they regarded as bordering on the Cape. Battle of Grahamstown, which took place here in 1819, was one of the events that landmark in South African history. Xhosa-leader tried to push the British Makana, but was defeated. He capitulated and was sent to Robben Iceland. Later he drowned in an escape attempt.

A company that Grahamstown tour lets you relive the battle from the Xhosa historian. Full day and half day tours take you to local forts and guides explaining what happened during the battle. You will be visiting the Valley of Ancient voices, which is rich in ancient rock art. You'll also have the option to purchase locally made arts and crafts. Drostdy Arch, built in 1841, was the original entrance to the military parade ground. Statue of the winged Angel of peace celebrates dead in Boer War, now called the South African war.

A Centre for education and culture

Grahamstown is home from Rhodes University and some of South Africa's other leading schools. Many people think it is the country's seat of culture and learning. One of the main attractions for visitors to South Africa holidays is the Cathedral of St. Michael and George, which dates back to 1824. The Church's steeple dominates the skyline and is the highest in South Africa-their clocks was the first in Africa.

Observatory Museum offers a fascinating study of Victorian science at its best. Shows include a two-story pendulum and only authentic Victorian camera obscura in the southern hemisphere. National Museum English library houses a fascinating collection of books and exhibitions on South African writers in English. International Library of African music is a Centre for teaching and research that has a collection of more than 200 traditional African instruments.

The ten days Grahamstown National Arts Festival, held in late June or early July is South Africa's largest cultural events. It is one of the largest arts festivals in the world, offering artistic exhibitions, theatre, music, dance and even a children's festival. Theatres, schools, churches, museums, pubs and outdoor stadiums all participate, but the biggest events are staged on the 1820 settlers National Monument on gunfire Hill.