The Wild Coast along the Eastern Cape, also known as the Transkei, is South Africa’s most remote and untamed wilderness.

Pristine coastline stretches 250km from East London in the south to the border of KwaZulu-Natal in the north.

Traditional home of the Xhosa people and the birthplace of Nelson Mandela.

Its natural beauty is largely untouched except for the odd collection of thatched rondavel huts.

Comprises indigenous forest and many previously unknown forest species in places such as Umtamvuna and Mkambati.

Rivers flow from the hills into the sea, forming wide floodplains where the hills are lower, and, in the precipitous cliffs of the north, young rivers leap over rocky crags into the surf below.

Secluded sandy bays, lazy lagoons and long stretches of footprint-free beaches are found near the mouths of large rivers such as the Kei, Mthatha, Mbashe and Mzimvuba.

Magnificent hiking trails, including easy-going terrain along the Strandloper Trail, begin near Kei Mouth and pass through the pretty seaside villages of the Jikeleza Route before terminating in East London.

Famous landmarks include “the Gates” at Port St Johns, Hole in the Wall, Magwa Falls, Waterfall Bluff, the Jacaranda shipwreck, Nongqawuse’s pools and the Morgan Bay Cliffs.

The Jikeleza Route is host to the 100km² Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve.

High vantage points provide great lookouts for dolphin and whale watching, particularly the humpback and southern right whales which migrate from the Antarctic to these shores to calve.

Bird calls from an eclectic mix of sea, coastal and inland birds fill the sky. 

Both the coast and the estuaries offer excellent fishing grounds and are firm favourites with anglers.

Ski boats are available to take you deep-sea fishing and offer spectacular views of the coast from offshore. 

The Sardine Run follows the coastline up north every winter and creates a frenzy of activity from resident seals, dolphins, gannets and predatory fish.

An array of activities on offer for the intrepid traveller and family group alike, include: golf, mountain biking, rock climbing, abseiling, surfing, canoeing, horse riding, game viewing and bird watching.

Blessed with beautifully mild weather, average daily temperatures range from 17°C to 28°C in summer, and 9°C to 21°C in winter.