The Wild Coast

The Wild Coast offers a striking remote coastline. Families & walkers particularly enjoy this area with family-friendly coastal resorts on offer.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Year-round

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Overview

The Wild Coast lies to the east of the Eastern Cape game reserves. Stretching from East London to the KZN border, the Wild Coast offers a blend of Xhosa culture, striking coastline and glorious sandy beaches. This ultra-remote region is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and traditional Xhosa villages.

More adventurous travellers - with time on their hands - wanting to relax for a few days of tranquiity will utterly enjoy it. There are a number of family-friendly Wild Coast hotels offering a traditional beach holiday.

And now luxury has come to the Wild Coast. GweGwe Beach Lodge: is a luxurious coastal lodge in the Mkambati Nature Reserve.

Ciskei Coast - accessible beauty

Closest to the game lodges is the Ciskei coast. This is less dramatic than the formerly known ''Transkei'' part of the Wild Coast. But it still offers endless swathes ofΒ  sandy beach - less than an hour from East London and 3 hours from most game lodges. Great option if you only have 2-3 nights. See Prana Lodge and Crawfords Beach Lodge below.

Highlights of the Wild Coast

  • Eastern Cape wild coastCoffee 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 Pondoland Trail and Wild Coast Meander, provide opportunities to explore the coasts diverse landscapes on foot.

Important Caveat:

Most of the coastal hotels in Transkei area of the Wild Coast are very remote being well off the main inland highway (2+ hours in some cases). Consequently we only recommend driving between the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal, if you have at least 4 nights to spend en route.

 

Why We Love It

  • Family friendly coastal resorts.
  • Wild Coast Meander Walking Trail.
  • Striking coastline and sandy beaches.

Review of GweGwe beach lodge by Kate

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.

Kate Bergh
Co-founder & Director
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Ginny Russell

AFRICAN TRAVEL SPECIALIST

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