The Wild Coast is an unspoiled natural treasure. Visitors can explore its renowned beauty on foot, by 4×4 or horseback before embarking on fishing expeditions or snorkelling and diving outings.
The Wild Coast in South Africa stretches along the Eastern Cape province’s coastline. As its name suggests this strip of coastline, which reaches from the Mtamvuna River in the north to the Great Kei River in the south, is an untamed wilderness. It offers incredible views of the dramatic coastline, jagged cliffs, sheltered bays, wild beaches and rolling hills and valleys.
The Transkei, a former homeland, forms part of the Eastern Cape Wild Coast and is an underdeveloped area with low population that cannot be easily accessed, but is a hikers’ paradise and can be enjoyed on horseback. The area is also one of the areas most hardly fought for by British colonialists. It is renowned for being one of the most beautiful places on the planet and is the heartland of the Xhosa nation.
Ancient forests filled with cycads and yellowwood trees abound with bird and animal life. Bird watchers can go in search of the approximately 320 species that make this area their home, while anglers can catch the big one whilst deep sea, rock, surf, fly and spear fishing. Fishing licenses must be acquired from any local Post Office.
Due to its incredible natural beauty the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast is ideal for hiking, but a multitude of 4 x 4 trails allow for those that prefer travelling in comfort. Due to their delicate ecosystems beaches are off limits for drivers.
The Wild Coast is also known for its shipwrecks – a legacy of its wild and tempestuous nature. The entire coastline can be seen on foot on what is known as the Wild Coast Hiking Trail. Water activities like snorkelling and diving give a spectacular experience of the world beneath the waves while spotting lost treasure and other relics from shipwrecks.