King William's Town Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, see, eat and drink, where to stay, and how to get around in King William's Town, a historic city in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.


King William’s Town, located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. This charming colonial-era city, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Frontier,” offers a unique travel experience that combines spectacular natural scenery, historic architecture, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about King William’s Town, including the top things to do and see, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to get around.

Introduction to King William’s Town

King William’s Town is situated in the heart of the Eastern Cape’s Settler Country, a region that is renowned for its fascinating history and beautiful landscapes. The city was founded back in 1826, during the time of British colonial rule in South Africa, and has since become a melting pot of cultural influences. King William’s Town is a true testament to the diverse cultural heritage of South Africa, and the rich history of the Eastern Cape region.

List of Places to Visit in King William’s Town

King William’s Town has a lot to offer visitors. Here is a list of the top attractions that you should not miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • King William’s Town Museum - This museum showcases the history of the city and its people, with exhibits that focus on the region’s political and cultural heritage.
  • Steve Biko Museum - Dedicated to the life and legacy of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, this museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
  • Eastern Cape Makhanda’s and Maclear Monument - These monuments commemorate two British colonizers of the region.

Natural Attractions of King William’s Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Amatola Hiking Trail - The Amatola Hiking Trail is a challenging 6-day hike that takes you through some of South Africa’s most beautiful forests and waterfalls.
  • Thomas River Historical Village - Located in the breathtaking Thomas River Valley, this village is home to some of the region’s most spectacular hiking and mountain biking trails.
  • Willowvale Nature Reserve - This nature reserve offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebra, antelope, and monkeys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of King William’s Town

King William’s Town is a paradise for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes in and around the city:

  • Amatola Hiking Trail
  • Thomas River Historical Village
  • Willowvale Nature Reserve

Best Things to Do in King William’s Town: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, King William’s Town has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in and around the city:

  • Visit the King William’s Town Museum
  • Take a tour of the Steve Biko Museum
  • Hike the Amatola Hiking Trail
  • Explore the Thomas River Historical Village
  • Go on safari in the nearby Shamwari Game Reserve

Week-Long Itinerary for King William’s Town

If you’re planning a week-long trip to King William’s Town, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the King William’s Town Museum
2 Take a tour of the Steve Biko Museum
3 Hike the Amatola Hiking Trail
4 Explore the Thomas River Historical Village
5 Go on a safari in the nearby Shamwari Game Reserve
6 Relax at one of the local beaches
7 Sample the local cuisine and visit the markets

Food and Drink Scene of King William’s Town

No visit to King William’s Town would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bobotie - A traditional South African dish made with beef mince and spices, topped with a baked egg custard.
  • Bunny Chow - A traditional Indian-South African dish, consisting of a hollowed-out bread loaf filled with curry.
  • Braai - South African barbecue, usually consisting of a variety of meats, such as steak, chicken, or boerewors (a local sausage).

Local Beverages

  • Cape wine - The Eastern Cape is home to some of South Africa’s best wine regions, with many vineyards offering tours and tastings.
  • Umqombothi - A traditional Xhosa beer made from maize, sorghum, and water.

Where to Stay in King William’s Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

King William’s Town has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Crawfords Beach Lodge - A luxurious beachfront lodge in nearby Chintsa.
  • Tu Casa - A stylish guesthouse located in the heart of King William’s Town.
  • Rainbow Guest House - A budget-friendly guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a homely atmosphere.

What to Buy in King William’s Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

King William’s Town is a great place to find unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Xhosa beadwork and textiles - Xhosa beadwork and textiles are widely regarded as some of the best in South Africa.
  • Local wine - The Eastern Cape region is home to many vineyards and wineries, offering some of the best wines in the country.
  • Karoo lamb - The Karoo region, located near King William’s Town, is known for its high-quality lamb meat.

Local Culture and Customs of King William’s Town

South Africa is a country with a rich cultural heritage and King William’s Town is no exception. Here are some customs and traditions you should be aware of:

  • Respect the local customs and cultures.
  • Relatives are treated with great respect, and you will often hear people referring to their elders as “uncle” or “aunt” out of respect.
  • South Africans love their sports, especially soccer and rugby. Join the locals at a sports bar to catch a game and soak up the atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit King William’s Town

The best time to visit King William’s Town is during the summer months, from December to February when you can enjoy warm, sunny weather and clear skies. However, the Eastern Cape region is blessed with a mild climate and can be enjoyed all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of King William’s Town

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting King William’s Town:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and cultures.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Leave your belongings unattended.
  • Ignore local customs and cultures.
  • Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

King William’s Town is a relatively safe destination, but visitors are advised to take precautions and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Here is some information on safety and health in the region:

Safety in King William’s Town

  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your belongings close to you and do not leave them unattended.

Health in King William’s Town

  • It is recommended that visitors receive a vaccine for hepatitis A and B before traveling to South Africa.
  • Malaria is present in some parts of the country, so it is advisable to take appropriate precautions, such as taking anti-malarial medication and using insect repellent.

Getting to King William’s Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

King William’s Town is easily accessible by public transportation, with a number of options available for visitors:

Airports Near King William’s Town

  • East London Airport (ELS) - Located approximately 40 km away, East London Airport is the closest airport to King William’s Town.

Bus Stations Near King William’s Town

  • Intercity Xpress - Offers regular services to and from King William’s Town to Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town.
  • Greyhound - Offers daily services to and from King William’s Town to Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town.

Other Options

  • Car rental - For visitors who wish to explore the region independently, car rental services are available at the airport and in the city centre.

How to Get Around in King William’s Town

King William’s Town is a small city, and most attractions can be easily reached on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and minibuses are also available for hire, and car rental is an option for those who wish to explore the region independently.

Where to Go Next from King William’s Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

King William’s Town is a great base for exploring the Eastern Cape region, with many exciting nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some recommendations:

  • Addo Elephant National Park - Home to over 600 elephants, as well as lions, leopards, and other wildlife.
  • Hogsback - A picturesque mountain village with spectacular views and scenic hiking trails.
  • The Wild Coast - An unspoilt stretch of coastline with breathtaking beaches and natural landscapes.

Conclusion

King William’s Town is a unique travel destination that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, King William’s Town has something to offer. We hope that this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful region of South Africa!

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