Craggy, rocky and untamed, the Wild Coast is a little gem of kilometre after kilometre of unspoilt coastline, forest and open spaces where you can enjoy sandy beaches, fishing, horse riding, canoeing, birding, diving and even paragliding!
For hikers, there are endless trails through pristine forests, across rivers and towering waterfalls that tumble into the sea, along the edges of steep sandstone cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches.
For the really keen, there are several companies who can organise 6 day / 5 night trails, allowing you to fully experience the unsurpassed beauty of the coastline and staying overnight at a different hotel or private resort as you go.
Click here to book your accommodation on the Wild Coast, or ask us to plan an itinerary for you including the Wild Coast as part of your trip to South Africa.
The Xhosa
Many of the local Xhosa people still live in small rural villages dotted across the rolling hills, in much the same way as their forefathers did generations ago.
Small family groups of thatched rondavels are clustered together, and the people are proud of their traditions and beliefs.
A guided tour to one of the villages will expose you to the Xhosa people and their unique culture, including meeting the sangoma, or traditional healer, who will share with you the different medicines and healing methods commonly used amongst the villagers.
Don't Rush It
This area is still well off the beaten track for most overseas visitors, although South Africans have been holidaying here for generations and the infrastructure is now beginning to improve.
It is impossible to visit the area on a day trip, as even the nearest major centres are over 4 hours away.
We would recommend that the Wild Coast should also not be viewed as just a one-night stop over between East London and Durban - as getting to and from the N2 takes at least 90 minutes each way - and the roads are quite potholed in places!
Instead, take time out to stay 2 or even 3 nights, and give yourself time to explore and enjoy the stunning scenery of one of South Africa's lesser known treasures.
