Whether you’re travelling from Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg or further afield, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in and around Makhanda to make the most of your visit.
When it comes to the creative side of South Africa, there are no better showcases of the talent we have in this country than the National Arts Festival.
For over 50 years, the festival has given everyone from artists and musicians to magicians and actors the chance to show off their immense talent.
As the 2026 edition of the festival nears, together with Standard Bank, Time Out South Africa has created a hub for all things National Arts Festival.
Book: Grab your tickets for the National Arts Festival here.
From how best to get to Makhanda from around South Africa to the events you cannot afford to miss, we've got you covered!
Scroll through the list below to engross yourself in the festival and prepare to have an amazing time in this little corner of the Eastern Cape.
