Wild Coast Walk

The Wild Coast Walk
The Wild Coast Walk is in an unspoilt natural environment - magnificent coastal setting, beaches, bush, and sunshine. Enjoy whale and dolphin watching, birding, swimming, canoeing, fishing, and excellent accommodation. Guides and porters from local Xhosa communities accompany hikers.

The walks are slow, spending time to enjoy the beaches and to take a closer look at the unspoilt coast and rivers. You can stop and enjoy what is of interest to you or your group. A community guide will assist you with timing of walks to coincide with the tides and show you the best place to cross. The guide will also point out the marine and wildlife, birds, and ecology of the area.

The walk starts north of the Kei River at Kob Inn. You will spend the first 4 days in what was formerly known as the Transkei. After crossing the Kei River, the trail ends at Morgan Bay.

Scenery
The area is a nature lover's paradise, with access so limited that the only way to see some parts of the coastline is to hike. The scenery is spectacular. Empty white-sand beaches are separated by steep green hills, dramatic cliffs, and rocky headlands. Sunrises and sunsets of breathtaking beauty. Experience peaceful tranquillity that is unsurpassed. Not only is the scenery unbelievably beautiful, but this remote area of the country remains relatively untouched by the trappings of civilization.

Activities
A variety of activities complement the hiking program: pristine beaches offer secluded and quiet spots for swimming or to visit and enjoy. You will also have opportunities for birding, fishing, canoeing, whale and dolphin-watching, and to explore shipwrecks and some traditional Xhosa villages along the way. In addition, the lodges/hotels offer some free activities.

Attractions

• The suspension bridge linking Mazeppa Bay mainland to an island; a favourite fishing spot
• The Jacaranda shipwreck near Trenneys Hotel
• The boat pont river crossing at Kei Mouth

Sardine Run
Every year, between May and July, many millions of sardines travel north from the cold southern oceans of South Africa as they make their way up along the coastlines of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal in what is commonly known as the annual Sardine Run. The sardines come close enough to be seen from shore or even washed up on the beach. It occurs nowhere else on earth and can be witnessed from the beaches of the Wild Coast.

Accommodation
Spend every night in the comfort of coastal resorts, known for unique settings and warm hospitality.

Culture and History
The Wild Coast (formerly Transkei) is an area of historical and cultural significance. It is the traditional home of Xhosa-speaking people and was an independent homeland until 1994. It is a very distinct part of South Africa, full of tradition and local colour. Nelson Mandela is its most famous son. Guides and porters from local Xhosa communities accompany hikers every day, sharing their local knowledge, customs, and culture with you.

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