Safety Tips for Tourists

Health Tips:

Although you can drink Grahamstown's tap (faucet) water if in doubt drink bottled water which is easily available.
Grahamstown has good doctors and dentists in the event of a medical emergency.
It is best to wear a hat and sunscreen during the day in summer and keep an anorak or light jacket handy when temperatures fluctuate as it has been said that Grahamstown experiences all 4 seasons in a day. Our July winters can be freezing.
Grahamstown and surrounds have no malaria or bilharzia.

Makana Tourism regrets that it cannot offer:

Out and about in Grahamstown/Makana and Frontier Country:

Make a copy of your ID document and keep it in the safe at your hotel or BnB.
Don’t carry more money that you intend to spend during the day or wear a discrete money belt.
Be alert when withdrawing money from an ATM.
Plan your route beforehand so that you don’t have to check a map on the street.
Be aware of your surroundings. Walk purposefully and confidently.
Keep to populated areas and avoid deserted streets at night especially if you are alone.
Avoid taking short-cuts through deserted areas/parks/trails down Gun Fire Hill, particularly after dark.
Mind your belongings especially in crowded areas. Use a bag with a strap that loops over your head and goes across your body.
Don’t bring attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewellery or by showing fancy cameras/luggage.
If you are renting a car make sure it is in good working order and check that windows and doors work properly before you leave the rental premises.
Drive with your doors locked.
Never leave luggage or valuables visible inside a parked car or attached to a roof rack.
Park in well-lit areas at night and ask your accommodation provider if they have secure parking facilities.
If you are travelling on to a remote area inform somebody where you are going.
Camp in approved sites only and never pitch a tent in an open space or public area.

Grahamstown Emergency Numbers:

AMBULANCE 10177

AA RESCUE 0800 111 997

DAY HOSPITAL 046 622 3033

DENTIST 046 622 8503

ELECTRICITY & WATER 046 603 6000

FIRE BRIGADE 046 622 4444 / 046 622 2923

LOCKSMITH 082 556 9975

PHARMACY 082 077 0040

POLICE 046 603 9152 / 046 603 9111

SAFE HOUSE 082 374 0937

SETTLERS HOSPITAL 046 602 5000