10 Days - African Sun on the Wild Coast, Eastern Cape

Uvongo/Durban

2 nights

The Wild Stars tour kicks off travelling south from Durban, passing through sugar cane fields until we reach Uvongo, where we will enjoy homely living for two days. During our stay in this area you have the opportunity to try the world’s highest gorge swing at Oribi Gorge and scuba dive with sharks at the renowned Protea Banks.

Port St. Johns

1 night

Our name might give some of it away and although we love the whole itinerary we are now close to Latitude 31° south, and travelling in one of our favorite areas – the Transkei. The Transkei was an independent country until 1994 when it became part of the Eastern Cape in the Republic of South Africa. We are heading for Port St. Johns situated at the mouth of the mighty Umzimvubu River. It is a surreal area and people here might warn you about “pondo fever” – it’s the ‘condition’ of those who show up, expecting to stay a few days and end up staying for months or years. You’ll know why they stay once you enjoy a sundowner on Mount Thesiger. Maybe you’ll understand it when you take a walk through the village or to the ‘gap’ and the blow-hole on Second Beach as you experience this part of the ‘Wild Coast’ and more of the raw beauty of the Indian Ocean.

Mdumbi

2 nights

Only 30km north of Coffee Bay this is by far the most peaceful spot you will visit in a while. Surrounded by rolling hills you will stay in one of the traditional huts that you will come to associate with the Transkei. A 4 minute stroll will take you to a white beach that stretches out northwards as far as the eye can see – perfect for those long walks on the beach or topless tanning sessions as there is barely anybody else around. There is also a breathtaking kayaking trip up die Mdumbi River!

Coffee Bay

2 nights

We are travelling into the heart of the Transkei, through rolling green hills on roads where you drive slowly and make sure you don’t hit cattle, people, dogs, potholes, chickens, goats… well, you get the idea. It’s a gorgeous drive as you head deeper into rural South Africa on your way to Coffee Bay – another gem on the Indian Ocean and Wild Coast. Our accommodations are right on the Bomvu River Mouth and the scenery can get very dramatic especially when this wild ocean acts up. Sunsets with an adult beverage overlooking Coffee Bay from a high cliff will be one of your best memories of South Africa. On the way we pass by Mvezo where Nelson Mandela was born.

Chintsa

2 night

Our next fabulous stop is Chintsa East, a few kilometers south of the the Great Kei river. We aren’t really supposed to compare the beaches on our trip but this one rates very high on our list. Our rooms are only a few minutes away from this breathtaking, unspoiled beach where the Chintsa river flows into the sea. Our accommodation is funky and has a laid-back atmosphere surrounded by forested dunes, lagoons and rivers. Help feed and play with local children at the Chintsa East Soup Kitchen, and meet fellow travelers chillin’ around the pool and playing volleyball (with free wine!)

Click on a destination on the itinerary above to view more information

Please select your start date on the calendar when booking your tour. We require a 35% deposit on confirmation of booking. The remaining balance is due 14 days before your tour date.

We require a minimum of 4 travelers to confirm booking at quoted price.

If you are a couple please contact us for pricing and to make your booking.

Upcoming trip dates:

Choose your preferred starting date on the calendar.

Trip direction: Durban to Chintsa
Durban, South Coast, Coffee Bay, Wild Coast, Chintsa

Included in the price:

All accommodation. We aim to keep accommodation as private as possible. 2 – 3 people max per room. Most accommodation is en-suite except where it is not possible. NO DORMS
Professional guides/driver for the duration of the tour.
All overland transport that is trip related (comfortable vehicle, fuel, tolls). If you decide to do activities on your own outside the tour/group, transport to do so will be your own expense.
Hikes on route (Coffee Bay to Whole in the Wall)
River Experience on Mdumbi River

Boat Trips

If boat tripping floats your boat there are a few outings to choose from. You can try and spot some dolphins on an ocean safari or enjoy a sunset booze cruise on the mighty Umzimvubu river in Port St Johns.

Beer Tasting

South Africa fully launched itself onto the craft beer wagon and we always hit up some breweries for these tasty hopsy beverages.

Whale Watching Charters (in season)

South Africa has the some of the best land-based whale watching in the world but you can also get closer and in their own environment by doing a whale watching boat trip… an amazing way to experience these ocean giants

Oribi Gorge Wild Swing – 165m (Highest in the World)

Situated at the top of Lehr’s Falls, it is the highest gorge swing in the world. Hurl yourself (or simply step) off the edge of the waterfall to swing into the gaping depths of the gorge – 165 metres (55 Storeys / 541ft)!

Oribi Gorge Wild Abseil – 110m (also called rappelling)

Abseil down a 110 metre (361ft) cliff face alongside Lehr’s waterfall and experience a new dimension in sightseeing! Determine your own pace, and lavish the thrill of one of the world’s highest commercial abseils. The first 45 metres is a cliff abseil where one traditionally abseils with their feet against the cliff while the remaining 65 metres is a free abseil allowing one to take in the beauty of the gorge from a different angle.

Oribi Gorge Wild Slide

Experience solitary bliss! Slide along the cable that spans across the gorge, 165 metres (541ft) above the treetops. Strapped securely in a full body harness, you can lavish the view without compromising your comfort… Enjoy a bird’s eye views of Lehr’s Waterfall and Baboon’s Castle!

Surfing and Surfing Lessons

South Africa is a surf mecca! There are many breaks en-route and whether you choose to travel with your own board or hire on the spot we will be sure to catch some waves. If you have never surfed before and you want to try it, there are more than a few places where lessons are on offer.

Guided Walks and Hikes

Throughout our trip there are beautiful walks, hikes and mountain treks you can explore. River mouths, mountain trails, shopping malls, romantic walks on endless white sand beaches… the list goes on. If you talk the walk talk, your feet will stay busy every step of the way 🙂

Traditional Village Tours

Experience a way of life far removed from yours by roaming the hills with a guide. He’ll introduce you to his home village where you can sample the local food and consult the herbalist or perhaps the witch doctor who’ll throw the bones for you. End the day trip with a session at the local shebeen (unlicensed drinking establishment), where the bravest can try the African beer. This is a great way to learn more about some of the 11 different cultures that make up South Africa’s rainbow nation.

Kayaking

Explore the magic of gliding across sparkling waters, enjoying the stunning river estuary in Mdumbi.