Wild Coast
The Wild Coast remains South Africa’s relatively untouched paradise. An eco-haven with the feel of a true African coastline with rocky outcrops, where waterfalls tumble into the sea, and endless sandy beaches are the pearls in the crown of the Eastern Cape.
Unspoilt stretches of coastline, open spaces and pristine forest areas provide an opportunity for the adventure traveller to discover a variety of leisure options guaranteed to make family holiday memories. Whether your dream get-away conjures up visions of long, lazy days on the beach or beside the pool, exploring uncharted territory with a pack on your back, or fishing for the best catch, the Wild Coast has something for everyone. From fisherman’s hideaways to plush holiday apartments and fully serviced hotels, there’s a range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.
The Wild Coast Jikeleza on the lower end of the Wild Coast is a tourist route from East London to Chintsa, with many unique offerings available to the traveller; whilst on the northern boundary of this region is the Wild Coast Pondoland offering community-involved hikes and horse trails in unique landscapes.
Road access to the resorts along the coast are mainly gravel roads, most of which are generally well maintained. However, visitors are advised to check on the road conditions before embarking on their journey – particularly during the rainy season. Driving along the rural roads to the resorts can be a very pleasant experience with breath-taking scenery and friendly waving locals along the way.
Diversions from the coast take you through rolling hills and valleys, with scattered villages breaking the splendour. Here you can see rural farming areas, which have largely retained rural traditions and values. Notable landmarks include Mthatha, one of the centres of the Xhosa culture, and Qunu, the birthplace of former president Nelson Mandela. Numerous cultural villages offer visitors unique interactive experiences with the Xhosa culture. The opportunity to become an ‘honorary local’ and experience the rural lifestyle is a potential holiday highlight for many explorers.
