A rugged ribbon of coastline where rolling hills meet the Indian Ocean, the Wild Coast is South Africa at its most elemental: remote, quietly beautiful and richly cultural. Particularly appealing to families and walkers, it offers coastal lodges, long empty beaches and a slower, more grounded pace of travel.
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The Wild Coast lies to the east of the Eastern Cape game reserves. Stretching from East London to the KwaZulu-Natal border, the Wild Coast offers a blend of Xhosa culture, striking coastline and glorious sandy beaches. This is a place shaped by weather, tradition and time with dramatic cliffs, soft green hills and deeply rooted Xhosa communities dispersed along hundreds of kilometres of coastline.
Travel here is less about ticking off sights and more about settling into the rhythm of the land. Long beach walks, early-morning swims and evenings shaped by the sound of the ocean define the experience.
Those with time on their side will find the journey richly rewarding. Much of the Wild Coast lies well off the main routes, and distances takes (much) longer than expected. But that remoteness is precisely its appeal. Traditional beach holidays are still very much alive here, with a handful of family-friendly lodges offering simple pleasures done well.
In recent years, a new luxurious option has emerged. GweGwe Beach Lodge, set within the Mkambati Nature Reserve, brings refined luxury to one of the coast’s most pristine settings — proof that thoughtful luxury and wilderness can coexist without dulling the edge of the experience.
Ciskei Coast - accessible beauty
Closest to the Eastern Cape’s safari lodges lies the Ciskei Coast. Less dramatic than the former “Transkei” region, it nonetheless offers wide sandy beaches, warm seas and easy access. Just an hour from East London and around three hours from most Eastern Cape game reserves, it’s an excellent choice for shorter stays of two or three nights. Properties such as Prana Lodge and the family-friendly Crawfords Beach Lodge pair coastal tranquillity with relative ease of travel from your Eastern Cape safari.
Coffee Bay & Hole in the Wall: Known for its iconic rock formation and surf-friendly beaches, Coffee Bay and the nearby Hole in the Wall offers breath-taking views.
Mdumbi Beach: Often hailed as one of South Africa's most beautiful beaches, Mdumbi is perfect for surfing, kayaking, and immersing oneself in unspoiled natural beauty.
Hiking Trails: The ever-popular Pondoland Trail and Wild Coast Meander, trace river mouths, cliffs and rural paths — ideal for travellers who want to experience the coast at walking pace.
Much of the Transkei section of the Wild Coast is extremely remote, with access roads that can add two hours or more from the main inland highway. For this reason, we generally recommend travelling between the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal via the Wild Coast only if you have at least four nights to enjoy the journey without rushing.
How do you get to the Wild Coast?
Most travellers fly into East London (or Durban), then continue by road. Travel times can be longer than expected due to remoteness and road conditions.
When is the best time to visit the Wild Coast?
The warmer months from September to April are ideal for swimming and beach time, while winter offers superb walking weather as well as mild sunny days.
Is the Wild Coast suitable for families?
Yes - particularly for families who enjoy outdoor time, beach activities and a slower pace, with select lodges catering well to children. However you need to have at least 4 nights, preferably more, given the travelling time needed.
Speak to our safari specialists about where the Wild Coast fits best into your South African travels.
What an incredibly special place! This luxurious coastal lodge has been a dream for the local people for many years. Its a community-private partnership which means that a considerable portion of the revenue and profit goes directly to a Community Trust. So you can rest assured - that whilst you are enjoying the wonders of GweGwe - your visit is directly contributing to the local community.
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