Hole in the Wall Hike

This exciting new trail covers an untamed area regarded by many as the Eden of the Wild Coast. Characterised by swathes of sandy beaches criss-crossed by estuaries and mangrove swamps, majestic cliffs and grassy hilltops - this route offers a new dimension to coastal hiking.

Day One

Participants will self drive to Coffee Bay and overnight in the Coffee Bay Hotel. Accommodation here is in spacious and comfortable, with double and twin rooms. All the rooms have en-suite bathrooms. This little patch of paradise is still governed by the rhythms of Africa, and a wealth of new sights, sounds and experiences await you. Secure on site parking is available for your vehicles. In the evening enjoy a dinner and social.

Day Two

The adventure begins with your journey to the quaint holiday hamlet of Presley's Bay where you will stay overnight at a seaside cottage. The family has recently undertaken major renovations at the cottage and the large timber deck offers panoramic views of the ocean. If you tire of sitting on the deck enjoying the view, and feasting on a sumptuous home prepared meal - take a short 1.5km walk to the north and admire the scenery towards the Mtakatyi River and Hluleka Nature Reserve.

Day Three

You leave Presley's and head south towards the Anchorage Hotel near Umtata Mouth. This 12km walk takes you along some of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa. Lwandile and Mdumbi are both flanked by wide rivers lined with mangrove trees and hikers will soon understand why Mdumbi was rated as "the unbeatable beach" by Don Pinnock of "Getaway" Magazine. When you've made it across the Mdumbi River, take a break and rest in the shade of the two massive Milkwood trees at the foot of the dune forest to enjoy your freshly prepared packed lunch!

After lunch, walk around Whale Rock, past the small settlement of Tshani, and continue along the beach en route to the Anchorage Hotel. This rustic resort offers a range of hotel and self-catering accommodation. Hikers will enjoy some Wild Coast hospitality while relaxing in the pub or on the patio with its awesome views across the sea towards Coffee Bay.

Day Four

Bid farewell to the Anchorage and strike out along the beach again towards the Mthatha River, which you'll cross by rowing boat. The 8km leg to Coffee Bay then takes you up a steep grassy hill. At the top you'll catch your breath and marvel at one of the most spectacular views along this stretch of coastline. Follow the hilly trail past the old airstrip where a well-frequented shebeen now operates. You'll come to a vantage point where the fit and the brave can descend a steep track down to the wave cut platform. Huge cave systems have been eroded into the dolerite cliffs over time, and your guide will show you where the ANC cadres used to stash their arms caches during the liberation struggle. For those of you who favour discretion over valour, your reward will be an opportunity to watch the whales and the dolphins from a unique perspective. The trail continues from there down to Mapuzi Point where you can enjoy your packed lunch in this idyllic setting. Refreshed and fortified, set out along the cliff tops again until the path descends toward Ocean View Hotel in Coffee Bay. This family owned and managed hotel has earned an enviable reputation for its tasty, home-cooked meals, service, and friendliness - and hikers are guaranteed a relaxing "home away from home" evening here.

Day Five

The final day starts off a little differently. Hikers are transferred by vehicle to the Hole in the Wall land mark, and will spend time marvelling at the power of the Ocean that over hundreds of years has carved a massive hole in the rock. Then you will begin the 11km trail back to Coffee Bay and stay overnight in the Ocean View Hotel. The terrain varies from sandy beaches to grassy hills and steep gradients, and during the annual Sardine Run this route offers spectacular scenes of frenetic activity in the sea as whales, dolphins and game fish join the thousands of Cape Gannets - all out to get their share of the sardine shoals.

Later on, with all the walking done, hikers can sit back and reflect over a well-deserved drink or two on their amazing Wild Coast experience.

Day Six

After a hearty hotel breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to the Wild Coast and begin your journey home.