Wild Coast Meander

The area that the hike covers is a nature lover's paradise, with access so limited that the only way to see the majority of the coastline is to hike. Carry only your personal items (clothing and toiletries, etc.) and a picnic lunch, which will be provided by the hotels. The Trail covers a distance of about 55km, which you will undertake during the day and spend every night in comfort at one of the Wild Coast Hotels.

This unique Trail offers you the opportunity to walk a section of our magnificent Wild Coast. The area that the hike covers is a nature lover's paradise, with access so limited that the only way to see the majority of the coastline is to hike. You will encounter long lonely beaches, river estuaries teeming with marine life, river fauna, and majestic views. Experience peaceful tranquillity that is unsurpassed.

The trail is adaptable and can be extended or shortened to suit your requirements. For instance try a 6-night trail, spend an additional night at any of the 5 resorts and use the extra day to put your feet up and enjoy the facilities available. A popular choice is to spend a night at each of Trennery's and Seagulls, which are next to one another giving you more time to explore the Qlorgha region.

The trail itself offers some interesting and challenging aspects with river crossings, hiking over headlands, beach walking and crossing the Kei River on a pontoon. As the daily distances are very average and the terrain relatively easy, no great fitness is required. Anyone reasonably fit and able can do this Trail. We use local trained guide, all of whom are friendly and eager to share their knowledge and love of the land with you. This provides a valuable source of income for the rural areas.

Day 1
Transfer by road to Kob Inn, refreshments will be provided on the bus and a lunch stop at the Willovale Hotel. After registration, time permitting, enjoy a cruise up the Qora River, the cruise can take about 2 hours and is relaxing and entertaining. Retire to the bar for evening drinks and snacks before enjoying a scrumptious dinner.

Day 2 (6km)
Today hikers can take their time swimming and sunbathing en route or Lunch can be enjoyed at Kob Inn. Please inform the hotel the previous night, which option you, prefer.
Arrive at Mazeppa Bay in the afternoon. Relax in this beautiful tropical setting and enjoy any number of the interesting sights e.g. Visit the island attached to the mainland via suspension bridge or explore the coastal forests.

Day 3 (22km)
After an early breakfast depart for Wavecrest. This day takes you along grassy banks adjacent to the coastline with many natural springs and long sandy beaches fringed with palms and many indigenous trees. Although the route is long, the terrain is flat. Enjoy a booze cruise up the Nxaxo River. Bird lovers might consider paddling up the river in one of the many canoes to view the wonderful bird life for which Wavecrest is renowned. In the evening have dinner and a social.

Day 4
Today's hike is about 14 km and entails a river crossing. Around lunchtime you should reach the wreck of the Jacaranda. This is a good spot for a picnic lunch and bathing. At the Qolora River Mouth we have a choice of two hotels (Trennery's or Seagulls) for hikers to stay overnight. Spend the evening relaxing - exploring the area and enjoy a mouth-watering dinner.

Day 5
After an early breakfast a visit to the scenic gates on the Qolora River can be included (there is an extra charge for this trail) Thereafter depart for Kei Mouth, a 6km stretch along the beach will bring you to the Kei River. This used to be the border between the Transkei and S.A. The river crossing is made on the pontoon, which is one of the last remaining working pontoons in the country. The Trail then takes you around the village of Kei Mouth to Morgan Bay.
Arrive at Morgan Bay late afternoon and after a relaxing shower enjoy a superb dinner. The pub is always an interesting place to visit with locals telling new and old stories.

Day 6
After a late breakfast hikers will be collected from the Hotel and transferred back to East London. If you would like to spend the morning and only be collected later, just inform us.