Welcome to Fort Beaufort – Where History Meets Wilderness
Cradled in the lush Kat River Valley and surrounded by rugged peaks of the Amatola Mountains, Fort Beaufort is one of the Eastern Cape’s most scenic and underrated destinations. Established in the early 1800s as a British military outpost, the town grew from a small mission station into a heritage-rich destination filled with natural wonders and colonial-era landmarks.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through forested ravines, or exploring one of the nearby game reserves, Fort Beaufort is an ideal base for both nature lovers and history buffs.
What to See & Do in Fort Beaufort
Historical Highlights
- Martello Tower – Built in 1839, this rare stone fortification is one of only a few left in the world
- British Military Hospital ruins & historic quarters – Snapshots of the town’s colonial roots
- Reverend Joseph Williams’ Mission Site – The original missionary settlement from 1816
Handy Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: May to September for dry weather and game viewing; October to March for lush landscapes
- Getting there: Located along the R67 between Grahamstown and Alice; best accessed by road
- Local insight: Stop at small farm stalls along the route for local jams and crafts
- Travel tip: Combine your visit with trips to Hogsback or Alice for mountain trails and Xhosa heritage
Why You Should Visit Fort Beaufort
Fort Beaufort offers a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path escape for travelers who appreciate untouched nature, quiet towns, and historical storytelling. From the last-standing Martello Tower to the flowing waterfalls of Kat River and the wildlife of nearby reserves, this small town punches well above its weight. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, Fort Beaufort invites you to reconnect with South Africa’s past and present in the most scenic way possible.
