Experience The Festival
Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) is a beautiful, historic town in South Africa’s Eastern Cape — and every winter, it transforms into the vibrant heart of the arts world. For eleven days each year, its streets, theatres, halls and open spaces become alive with creativity as the National Arts Festival unfolds. Artists and audiences from across the country and beyond gather here to celebrate performance, innovation and imagination in all its forms.
The town’s rich heritage and striking architecture provide a fitting backdrop for this convergence of cultures and ideas. From the grand stages of the main programme to the intimate, unexpected settings of the Fringe, every corner of Makhanda holds the possibility of discovery.
Beyond the performances, visitors can explore local cafés, markets, galleries and historic landmarks, immersing themselves in the rhythm of a town that welcomes art as part of everyday life. Whether you’re here for a single day or the full Festival run, Makhanda offers a unique meeting point between history and creativity — a place where the arts don’t just entertain, but connect, challenge and inspire.
Makhanda is located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, about 130 kilometres from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and 180 kilometres from East London. The town is easily accessible by road, with well-maintained routes connecting it to major cities and airports in the region. Visitors can travel by car, shuttle or bus, and several transport services operate during the Festival period to accommodate increased demand. However you choose to travel, planning ahead will help ensure a smooth journey to the heart of the National Arts Festival — where South Africa’s creative spirit comes vividly to life each winter.
By Air
The most efficient way to reach Makhanda is by flying into Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) or East London, both approximately two hours away by road.
From either airport, travellers can hire a car, arrange a shuttle, or make use of Festival transport services operating between the cities and Makhanda. The journey covers about 130 km from Gqeberha or 180 km from East London, along well-maintained routes through the Eastern Cape.
As flights and transport services are in high demand during the Festival period, early booking is strongly recommended.
By Car
Driving to Makhanda is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s landscapes. The journey offers open roads, striking scenery, and glimpses of the country’s rich history along the way. Whether you’re travelling from a major city or making it part of a longer adventure, a road trip to the National Arts Festival is an experience in itself.
From Johannesburg:
About 900 km (9–10 hours) via the N1 and N10 highways. You’ll pass through Colesberg and Cradock — ideal for an overnight stop or a relaxed lunch. The road via Bedford can be challenging; consider the Cookhouse/Nanaga route for the final stretch, or take the N6 through Smithfield and Komani to enjoy sweeping views of the Amatola Mountains.
From Cape Town:
Approximately 850 km (8–9 hours) along the N2. Travel the world-famous Garden Route to enjoy South Africa’s coastal beauty — from Wilderness and Knysna to the Tsitsikamma Forest. Alternatively, explore the inland Route 62 for a slower, scenic journey through wine country and classic small towns.
From Durban:
Around 600 km (6–7 hours) via the N2, passing through Kokstad and Mthatha before joining the N2 to Makhanda. Expect a lush, green route with striking viewpoints and local eateries along the way.
From Bloemfontein:
Roughly 600 km (6–7 hours) via the N6, travelling through Aliwal North and Stutterheim. This quieter route showcases the peaceful landscapes and charm of the Eastern Cape interior.
From Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth):
Just 130 km (1.5–2 hours) along the N2. It’s an easy, scenic drive — and a stop at Nanaga Farm Stall for their famous pies and roosterkoek is almost mandatory.
From East London:
Around 180 km (2–2.5 hours) along the N2, with rolling hills, wide horizons and a smooth approach into Makhanda.
By Bus
Catching the bus to Makhanda is a fantastic, stress-free, and affordable alternative to driving or flying.
Recline in comfort, enjoy the ever-changing South African landscape, and arrive refreshed and ready to immerse yourself in the arts. Many major intercity bus companies serve Makhanda, offering amenities like air conditioning, charging ports, and onboard restrooms, transforming travel time into valuable rest or prep time. Plus, once you’re in Makhanda, the Festival’s free around town shuttle service (The Hoppers) are available to whisk you between venues. It’s the smart, relaxing way to begin your Festival adventure.
How long should you stay?
We recommend at least three to four days to truly immerse yourself — but many Festival-goers stay for all 11 days and make some time to visit the nearby pristine beaches and surrounding world-class wildlife preserves and still be able to soak up every performance, pop-up, and late-night jam!
Whether you’re here for a weekend of wonder or the full Festival adventure, there’s a place for every taste and budget.
Accommodation options include:
- Guesthouses & B&Bs: Warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts.
- Hotels & Lodges: Comfortable stays with all the extras.
- Student Residences: Affordable Festival accommodation in the heart of town.
- Self-Catering & Camping: Great for families or groups who love flexibility.
Between curtain calls and encore applause, take some time to explore the magic of Makhanda and its breathtaking surroundings. This small but vibrant Eastern Cape town is bursting with history, natural beauty, and warm local character — and there’s so much more to see than just the stage!
Explore Nature
Makhanda is surrounded by pristine landscapes that invite you to slow down, stretch your legs, and breathe in the fresh Eastern Cape air.
- Two River Trail: Just a few minutes from town, this scenic reserve offers short trails through indigenous bush and great picnic spots. Keep an eye out for zebra and antelope!
- Thomas Baines Nature Reserve: A 15-minute drive from town, this hidden gem features hiking and mountain biking trails, birdwatching, and peaceful picnic areas beside Settlers Dam.
- Nature Walks & Parkruns: Join the friendly local community for the Makhanda Parkrun, held every Saturday morning, or take a self-guided stroll through the leafy university gardens and botanical gardens.
Game Reserves & Safari Adventures
A visit to Makhanda puts you right on the doorstep of some of South Africa’s finest private game reserves.
- Lalibela, Amakhala, Shamwari, and Kwandwe are all within a 30–60 minute drive, offering everything from half-day game drives to luxury overnight stays.
Experience the thrill of seeing elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural habitat — the perfect compliment to the vibrant creativity of the Festival!
The Beach — A Quick Coastal Escape
If you’re craving sea air, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean are less than an hour away.
- Kenton-on-Sea: Known for its golden beaches and tranquil lagoons — ideal for a picnic, swim, or paddleboard session.
- Port Alfred: A lively seaside town with restaurants, shops, and a beautiful marina. Enjoy a boat cruise or simply watch the sunset over the river mouth.
Both make perfect day trips during the Festival week!
History, Heritage & Culture
Makhanda is steeped in history — it’s one of South Africa’s oldest towns, with stories woven through every cobblestone street.
- Albany History Museum Complex: Discover fascinating exhibits on the region’s colonial and indigenous histories.
- Old Fort Selwyn & Observatory Museum: Climb to the fort for panoramic views of town, or explore the Observatory’s Victorian-era camera obscura — one of the oldest working examples in the southern hemisphere!
- Heritage Walking Tours: Local guides offer informative (and often entertaining) tours that bring Makhanda’s layered past to life.
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Bringing a Group or School Group to the Festival
The National Arts Festival is an inspiring learning experience for students, performers, and groups of all kinds!
For schools, it’s an unforgettable educational journey — packed with performances, workshops, and opportunities to meet artists. Many schools make it an annual tradition!
We can assist group organisers with ticketing, scheduling, and even discounts on participating shows, making it easier than ever to experience the Festival together.
To find out more, contact our team at boxoffice@nationalartsfestival.co.za.
We’ll help you plan a Festival trip that’s enjoyable, inspiring, and seamless from start to finish!
If you’re a school group, have you considered being part of the Schools Festival Programme?
For all young creatives, teachers, and future entertainers — the Schools Festival is your stage!
Each year, hundreds of high school learners and educators from across South Africa (and beyond!) gather in Makhanda for an unforgettable celebration of the arts, learning, and self-expression. The programme is specially designed to inspire, educate, and empower young people through live performance and hands-on engagement.
Over a few packed days, participants get to:
- Watch a curated selection of top-quality Festival shows across genres — from theatre and dance to music and film.
- Take part in interactive workshops and discussions with professional artists, directors, and performers.
- Explore career pathways in the creative industries and discover how the arts can shape the future.
- Build lifelong friendships and connections with peers who share a love of creativity and culture.
The Schools Festival is open to learners in Grades 10–12 and their teachers. It’s an ideal way to blend arts education with real-world experience — and to see firsthand how the National Arts Festival brings ideas, talent, and imagination to life.
Schools can register as a group, and tailored packages include accommodation, meals, and a full programme of activities.
Join us in Makhanda for a journey of discovery, laughter, and inspiration — because the next great artist, storyteller, or innovator might just be sitting in your classroom today!
For registration details, costs, and programme dates, visit [insert Schools Festival page link] or contact [insert email/contact info].