Graaff-Reinet is often called the gem of the Karoo. The town sits in a loop of the Sundays River, surrounded by dry mountains and wide plains. Meanwhile, its streets are lined with whitewashed Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings. So, this guide covers the best things to do, how to get there and when to go.
Quick Facts About Graaff-Reinet, South Africa
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Karoo, Eastern Cape |
| Known For | Cape Dutch heritage buildings, the Valley of Desolation and Camdeboo National Park |
| UNESCO Status | Not a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Founded | 1786, one of the oldest towns in South Africa |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May and September to November |
| Getting There | Fly to Gqeberha, then drive about three hours |
| Time Needed | Two to three days |
| Continent | Africa |
Where Is Graaff-Reinet?
Graaff-Reinet lies in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It sits in the Karoo, a vast semi-desert region in the interior. Gqeberha, the nearest big city, is about 250 kilometers to the south. In addition, Camdeboo National Park almost completely surrounds the town.
Why Visit Graaff-Reinet?
First, the town has a remarkable number of protected historic buildings. Second, the scenery is dramatic, with red cliffs and huge skies. Also, the air is clear, so the stars at night are spectacular. However, Graaff-Reinet still feels like a quiet country town. As a result, it is easy to slow down here.
Things to Do in Graaff-Reinet
Walk the Historic Center
Start at the Dutch Reformed Church in the middle of town. Then stroll along the nearby streets. Many old homes have gables, shutters and deep verandas. Many of the prettiest houses are within a few blocks of Church Square.
Visit Reinet House and the Town Museums
Reinet House was built in 1812 as a parsonage. Today it is a museum with old furniture and a large garden. Moreover, other small museums nearby cover local history, fossils and the old Drostdy, where officials once lived.
See the Valley of Desolation
The Valley of Desolation is the top natural sight near town. Tall rock pillars rise above a deep valley. Drive up to the viewpoint in the late afternoon. Then watch the light change across the plains below. In fact, sunset here is one of the best in the Karoo.
Explore Camdeboo National Park
Camdeboo National Park offers game drives, hiking trails and picnic spots. You may spot kudu, springbok, buffalo and many birds. In addition, the Nqweba Dam is a good place for birdwatching.
Stargaze in the Karoo
The Karoo is famous for dark skies. So, join a local stargazing tour or simply step outside your guesthouse after dark.
Tips for your visit:
- Bring sun protection, as the Karoo sun is strong all year.
- Pack warm layers for cold nights, especially in winter.
- Stay in a restored historic guesthouse in the town center.
- Try Karoo lamb, a local specialty.
Day Trips From Graaff-Reinet
Nieu-Bethesda, a tiny village about an hour away, is home to the strange and wonderful Owl House. Meanwhile, Mountain Zebra National Park lies a couple of hours to the east. Both make easy road trips from town.
One Historical Fact About Graaff-Reinet
Graaff-Reinet was founded in 1786. The name honors Governor Cornelis Jacob van de Graaff and his wife, whose family name was Reinet. Then in 1795, local settlers rebelled and briefly declared their own republic. However, it lasted only a short time.
How to Get to Graaff-Reinet
- Flying in: The nearest major airport is in Gqeberha. From there, the drive takes about three hours.
- Road: Good paved roads link the town with Gqeberha, Cape Town and the Garden Route.
- Bus: Some long-distance buses stop in town, though a car gives you more freedom.
Best Time to Visit Graaff-Reinet
Autumn, from March to May, and spring, from September to November, bring the most pleasant weather. Summer can be very hot. Meanwhile, winter days are sunny but nights can drop below freezing. So, spring and autumn are best for hiking and game drives.
Is Graaff-Reinet Worth Visiting?
Yes. Graaff-Reinet combines heritage, wildlife and desert scenery in one place. In fact, it is one of the most rewarding small towns in South Africa. Fans of historic desert towns may also enjoy Ait Benhaddou in Morocco.
Final Thoughts on Graaff-Reinet
Graaff-Reinet is a peaceful base for the Karoo. Walk the old streets, watch sunset at the Valley of Desolation and look up at the stars. Then discover another charming African town with our guide to Chefchaouen.
Image Credits
Unsplash
- Richan Fourie: The Dutch Reformed Church stands at the center of town, Unsplash License
- Wolfgang Hasselmann: Karoo mountains rise around the town, Unsplash License
- Richan Fourie: One of the many white heritage buildings in town, Unsplash License
Wikimedia Commons
- Winfried Bruenken (Amrum): Graaff-Reinet GR2, CC BY-SA 2.5
- nairnbairn: 12 1072m – Valley of Desolation, CC BY-SA 2.0
- dconvertini: Camdeboo National Park, South Africa6, CC BY-SA 2.0
