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Top Barkly East Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Barkly East

Top reasons to visit Barkly East

  • Stunning Scenery: Barkly East is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Drakensberg, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Cultural Experiences: Delve into the local heritage by visiting the Barkly East Museum and exploring nearby monuments.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the picturesque surroundings.
  • Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a range of comfortable 3-star guesthouses catering to various needs.
  • Friendly Locals: Experience the warm hospitality of the community, enhancing your visit to this charming village.

Find great hotels in Barkly East

Discover the charm of Barkly East, where a variety of comfortable accommodations await you. With predominantly 3-star guesthouses, this picturesque town caters to all types of travellers, whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a pet-friendly retreat, or a business-friendly stay. Explore the unique offerings of hotels and guest houses in Barkly East, ensuring a memorable experience in the stunning Eastern Cape of South Africa.

  • Walkerbouts Inn Rhodes: Nestled 40.2km from Barkly East, this charming 3-star guesthouse offers a warm blend of romantic, family, and pet-friendly themes. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway or families wanting a fun experience, the inn features amenities for children, including games and highchairs. Guests can indulge in special romance packages while furry friends are welcome with a pet-friendly policy. With cozy accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere, Walkerbouts Inn Rhodes ensures a delightful stay for all visitors.

Where to stay in Barkly East

Barkly East, nestled in the stunning Southern Drakensberg, offers a unique blend of charm and adventure for every type of traveler. This quaint village beckons visitors with its picturesque scenery and friendly locals, making it an ideal destination for family getaways or business retreats. Explore the nearby attractions, where the captivating landscapes and inviting atmosphere create unforgettable experiences just waiting to be discovered.

  • Senqu: Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Cape, Senqu is a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of the region. With Barkly East as its crown jewel, visitors flock here for cultural experiences that celebrate the area's rich history. Senqu's attractions include impressive monuments that reflect its heritage, making it a fascinating destination throughout the year, particularly in June, September, and December when traveller numbers peak. Expect a warm welcome and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Rhodes: Approximately 48.3km from Barkly East, the quaint village of Rhodes offers a serene escape for nature lovers and those seeking picturesque scenery. Known for its friendly locals, this charming destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning landscapes and hiking trails that showcase the region's natural beauty. While visitor numbers peak in April and June to July, Rhodes maintains a pleasant atmosphere year-round, perfect for exploring its tranquil surroundings and enjoying a slower pace of life.
  • Lundinʼs Nek: Located 38.6km from Barkly East, Lundinʼs Nek is a quaint village that invites visitors to experience its seasonal charm. With peak travel times in June, September, and November, this idyllic spot is ideal for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Lundin’s Nek is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect base for hiking and exploring the Eastern Cape's natural wonders. The village’s peaceful ambiance and friendly community make it a delightful stop on your journey.

Things to do in Barkly East

Barkly East offers a variety of activities perfect for business, family, or city-themed vacations. Visitors can enjoy the local shopping centres and explore attractions like the Barkly East Golf Club. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are scenic hiking trails, horse riding adventures, thrilling river crossings, and mountain boarding opportunities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Barkly East

To save money during your visit to Barkly East, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January, March, and May when hotel prices are lower. Book about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Sundays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Utilize public transport for affordable travel options and explore free local attractions. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can also lead to significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Barkly East is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Barkly East are January, March and May, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June and October to November, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Barkly East about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Barkly East is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Barkly East is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Barkly East hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Barkly East

Barkly East is an excellent destination for business, family, and city-themed vacations, offering a range of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local monuments and attractions that reflect the area's rich heritage. For a comprehensive visit, consider using a Barkly East map and check out the Barkly East Museum to deepen your understanding of the region. This charming town has something to offer for every traveller looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

  • Jozanna's Hoek Dam: Experience a serene escape at this monument, located 43.5km from Barkly East. Embrace its cultural vibes while enjoying picturesque views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

Best time to go to Barkly East

Visitor numbers in Barkly East is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Barkly East is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowModerately Low
February63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately Low
April56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May52.3°F (11.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageModerately Low
June47.3°F (8.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighModerately High
July47.1°F (8.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
August51.4°F (10.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
September57.2°F (14.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
October58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately High
November59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately High
December61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Barkly East

For your visit to Barkly East, the nearest major airport is Mthatha Airport (UTT), located 120.7km away. Nearby hotel options include the Mayfair Hotel, a 4-star establishment situated 11.3km from Mthatha, offering various transportation services such as airport shuttles available upon request and 24-hour service. Lodge Bellagio Mthatha, a 3.5-star guesthouse, is 9.7km from the airport, providing airport shuttle services as well. The Big Five Guest House, a 3-star bed and breakfast located 11.3km away, also offers transportation options including airport shuttles and transfers. Each hotel ensures convenient access to Mthatha Airport, making your travel hassle-free.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Barkly East?
The best area to stay in Barkly East is within the town centre itself, particularly around the main street, Cole Street.

This area is the heart of Barkly East, where you'll find the majority of the town's amenities and services. Cole Street is lined with local shops, small eateries, and the town's historic buildings. It's a compact area, making it easy to walk around and access everything you might need.

For travellers looking for convenience and a central base to explore the surrounding natural beauty, staying near Cole Street is ideal. You'll be within easy reach of places to eat and local provisions, making your stay stress-free.

Couples seeking a tranquil getaway often appreciate this central location for its accessibility to the town's charm while being a gateway to stunning mountain drives and outdoor activities in the region.
When is the best time to go to Barkly East?
The best time to visit Barkly East is during the drier, cooler months between April and September, particularly from May to August, to enjoy the clear skies and comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.

During these months, the weather is generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, making it pleasant for exploring the surrounding Drakensberg mountains. This period offers excellent conditions for hiking, fly-fishing in the numerous rivers, and horse riding through the scenic landscapes. The reduced rainfall ensures clearer paths and better visibility for enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Couples looking for a peaceful retreat will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere during these months. With fewer crowds, it's easier to find quiet spots for picnics, enjoy scenic drives along the mountain passes like Naude's Nek, and experience the local hospitality at a relaxed pace. Many guesthouses offer cosy fireplaces, great for evenings when temperatures drop.

For those interested in adventure activities, the winter months (June to August) also bring the possibility of snow, transforming the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Barkly East.
How can I save on a Barkly East hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Barkly East hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Barkly East hotel?
Prices for hotels in Barkly East often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.