This is an open invitation for a hiking adventure along South Africa’s Wild Coast. A journey through a rugged and untamed coastal paradise, a canvas painted with inspiring natural beauty featuring dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. The trails, winding through this raw and unspoiled magnificence, offer more than just physical challenges—they provide a spiritual rejuvenation, encouraging travelers to disconnect from the modern world and fully immerse themselves in the essence of nature.
The treks take us through tropical forests, a route leading from Nature’s Valley through ancient woodlands adorned with giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees. Along the way, we cross canyons, small bays, and shallow rivers, creating a diverse and captivating experience. Stopping at local villages introduces the opportunity to indulge in traditional tribal meals, adding a cultural layer to the adventure. As the evening descends, there’s enough time to sit, relax, and breathe in the refreshing ocean air.
For those with lingering energy, there’s an option for a short and enjoyable trip through the tropical maze of black and white mangrove trees at sunset—a perfect way to conclude the day.
This hiking experience goes beyond being mostly a physical challenge; it serves as a holistic immersion into the untamed beauty and cultural richness of South Africa’s Wild Coast.
Day 1
Arrival – East London – Wild Coast
Embark on a morning flight to East London, nestled along the southeastern coast of South Africa. Upon our afternoon arrival at the hotel, situated along the picturesque Indian Ocean coast, take a leisurely stroll along the beach to the Dolphin View observation point, offering a chance to witness dolphins gracefully navigating the shoreline. Weather permitting, indulge in a swim in the secluded rock pools. In the evening, gather at the renowned Koh Inn pub restaurant for a sunset briefing on our upcoming adventure.
Dinner and Overnight Kob Inn Hotel
Day 2
Kob Inn Hotel to Mazeppa Bay Hike (approximately 6 km
Following breakfast, conduct a swift equipment check and pack snacks for the day’s hike. After a brief walk, we’ll reach the QHORHA River, where a refreshing swim awaits before kayaking to the opposite bank. Capture photos of local herds of unique cattle at the river’s edge. In the afternoon, arrive at the Mazeppa Bay Hotel. Post-lunch, embark on a brief visit to Cow Island via the iconic hanging bridge.
Dinner and overnight Mazeppa Bay Hotel
Day 3
Mazeppa Bay Hotel to Wavecrest Hike (approximately 18 km
Embark on a lengthier hike traversing several small bays and estuaries, stopping for lunch at a local Leba village to savor a traditional Xhosa tribal meal. Continue along the captivating Sunday Point beach, nestled beside a cool subtropical forest, until reaching the Wavecrest Hotel by evening. Take time to relax and breathe in the ocean air, possibly venturing through the enchanting tropical maze of black and white mangrove trees at sunset.
Dinner and overnight Wavecrest Hotel
Day 4
Wavecrest to Seagulls (14 km)
Start the day with a light breakfast before a picturesque forest walk and a chance to spot the beautiful Knysna Loerie. Midday brings us to the scenic Kobonqaba River for a refreshing swim. Conclude the day on Travis’ floating boat in the Qholorha River, indulging in a typical South African dinner. Overnight at a hotel with a sea view.
Day 5
Bid farewell to the Wild Coast as we journey south to the Wilderness, passing through canyons and enjoying a forest tour near the Kai River. Arrive at Plettenberg Bay for an evening of free time and dinner at one of the pier-side restaurants.
Overnight Plettenberg Bay area
Day 6
Dedicate the entire day to exploring the tropical forests on a well-maintained route from Salt River to Forest Hall. Enjoy lunch by the Salt River, including a refreshing swim, before returning to Forest Hall Lodge for a delightful coffee in the evening.
Day 7 – 10
Cape Town
After breakfast, embark on a short drive to George Town for a domestic flight to Cape Town. Spend three adventure-packed days exploring Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the Cape of Good Hope. Highlights include climbing Table Mountain, visiting the Cape of Good Hope lighthouse, snorkeling with seals in Hout Bay, kayaking in the penguin colony, climbing Lions Head, and enjoying a vintage motorboat ride around Cape Town with a sunset cruise to Clifton Beach.
Day 11
Departure
Departure day – Take a connecting flight back to Johannesburg or a direct flight from Cape Town.
The authentic experiences, attention to detail, and expert guides you expect from Vered Hasharon—now in new destinations such as South Africa, Kyrgyzstan, Morocco, Spanish Pyrenees, Georgia, and Namibia!
With over 50 years of proven experience crafting exclusive travel worldwide, we know how to deliver iconic adventures that go above and beyond the standard tour. Now, we’re leveraging that experience to give you access to some of the world’s hidden gems.
Our expert guides have been working in all those destinations for 20+ years, getting to know the people, the landscapes, and the cultures firsthand so they can give you a unique insider’s perspective into these vibrant ancient cultures and thrill you with their unparalleled natural beauty.
At Vered Hasharon, we make every moment count. You get the best of both worlds–the adventure you crave and the peace of mind that everything has been taken care of, down to the tiniest details. All that’s left for you to do is to sit back and enjoy the trip as you stimulate your senses in these unforgettable journeys through history and time.
Treat yourself this year—explore the wild east coast of South Africa.
Accommodation during the treks will be in very good hotels, and in the more remote areas, we will stay in simple local guest houses that are an integral part of the unique trekking experience.
A comfortable and spacious bus capable of handling the South African side roads and tailored to the group’s size.
After two days of hiking and crossing rivers along the untamed shores of South Africa, reaching the summit overlooking the endless wide-open ocean, and suddenly witnessing a pod of dolphins swimming and jumping not far from you, the crisp sea air, the cliffs, and the overwhelming sense of satisfaction that we’ve arrived at this breathtaking viewpoint… that’s what ignites our “spark” to continue appreciating every day of our life.
We don’t leave anything to chance. Every group is accompanied by our experienced guide throughout the trip, and every single activity is accompanied also by professional local staff members to allow a safe and fun experience for everyone.
Our guide will lead you and make sure you are provided with a Complete Gear Kit, that will keep you safe and comfortable during the entire trip.
Our Lapland trip includes everything. Breakfasts at the hotels, lunches during the various activities, and dinners at local restaurants or the hotels where we stay. The Finnish meals are simple and rich in local ingredients such as salmon, northern deer meat stews, forest berries, and of course, carbohydrates that fill you up and warm your body. We also can’t forget the traditional blueberry tea. All meals are served buffet-style.