Think of the Wild Coast and images of endless unspoiled beaches, rolling waves and kilometer after kilometer of velvety green hills will probably come to mind. And for good reason – that’s exactly what it’s like. It’s a dream destination for lovers of the great outdoors too.
Planning to go by air? Flying into East London is your best bet. Airlink does fly from Johannesburg to Mthatha in the former Transkei but flights are infrequent and expensive. Find the cheapest flight deals here. And once you get there, here’s a selection of what you can see and do…
Coffee Bay Beach: Stretching from the mouth of the Nenga River against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, this beach is ideal for day-long hikes and horse-riding outings. One of the most popular trails goes to the Hole in the Wall, a spectacular stack of rocks just off the shore.
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve: If you’re into safaris, you’re in luck: this park has it all – the Big Five as well as rare white lions, cheetahs, antelope, giraffes and abundant birdlife. It’s an easy 40-minute drive from East London airport, with tarred roads leading right up to the entrance gates.
Bulolo waterfall hike: Head to Port St Johns for and make your way to the Bulolo waterfall, where you can enjoy a three- to four-hour guided walk through dense jungle to a secret waterfall that flows into a swimming hole. Test your head for heights by leaping off three platforms – the highest of which is 11 m – into the water below.
Mdumbi Point Break: Even by Wild Coast standards, this beach is secluded – and it’s a surfer’s paradise. Catch some of the best waves in the country while learning more about local Xhosa culture from the Pondo people.
The Gap and the Blowhole: Another place of breath-taking natural beauty, and a great place to go to view sea life. Adrenalin junkies will be pleased to know there’s a thrilling ladder leading down to the Gap, which is quite narrow and therefore not for the faint-hearted! The Blowhole is at the edge of the ocean on a flat black rock and can be rather slippery when it’s wet. The water that rushes out of the hole is a reminder of the sea’s awesome power – but don’t get too close. Nature’s brute force is not to be trifled with.
