Transkei District: Coast, Waterfalls and History

In Transkei District, protected coastal landscapes, waterfalls and places steeped in history sit side by side. When choosing a holiday rental, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: would you most like to explore coastal reserves, waterfall landscapes or cultural destinations? The places described offer different starting points for each.

Coastal Reserves and Their Landscapes

Silaka Nature Reserve is a 400-hectare protected coastal reserve stretching from Second Beach to Sugarloaf Rock. At the main beach, the Gxwaleni River forms an estuary. Both the coastline and the estuary are defining features of the reserve’s landscape.

Hluleka Nature Reserve covers 772 hectares. Its landscape includes rocky coastlines, lagoons and evergreen forests. Those particularly interested in varied coastal and forest landscapes will find a different combination here than at Silaka Nature Reserve.

In Mkambati Nature Reserve, the Mkambati River forms Horseshoe Falls, Strandloper Falls and Mkhambathi Falls before plunging into the Indian Ocean. The combination of the river’s course, several named waterfalls and its mouth at the sea gives this natural area its own character. Magwa Falls is notable for a different measurement: its main drop is 144 metres high. Waterfall Bluff, meanwhile, plunges directly into the Indian Ocean.

Waterfalls, Coastal Towns and Hiking Routes

The Waterfall Bluff and Trail starts in Mbotyi and runs for about 3.5 kilometres to Drewe’s Camp. Along the way, it passes the cliffs near Cathedral Rock. The stated distance and destination provide a clear indication of the route; no walking time or difficulty level is given. Tsitsa Falls is in the Mhlontlo Municipality, 45 kilometres outside Mthatha. Hole in the Wall is at the mouth of the Mpako River in Coffee Bay.

You can hike along the coastal stretch from Port St Johns to Coffee Bay and stay overnight in traditional Xhosa huts along the way. This type of trip combines hiking with overnight stays along the route. If you plan to do this, check the current availability of overnight accommodation in advance.

History, Healing Traditions and Art

At the Bhunga Building in Mthatha, the Nelson Mandela Museum documents Mandela’s life, his struggle for democracy and the end of apartheid. In Port St Johns, Isinuka Springs is a traditional healing site with natural sulphur springs. The bathing pool is believed to have spiritual and therapeutic healing powers. The museum and the healing site represent different cultural aspects: historical remembrance at one, and a traditional healing site at the other.

In Lusikisiki, Litha Arts Creations runs an art studio and gallery aimed at national and international tourists. Oil paintings and hand-painted textiles are created there. Magwa Volunteers, a centre for permaculture and community projects, is also located near Magwa Falls. These places complement the natural attractions with crafts and community projects, without requiring a scheduled visit programme.

Choosing Suitable Accommodation and a Travel Style

Silaka Nature Reserve has 18 thatched self-catering chalets. Check the current accommodation status before planning your stay. The chalets are a specific self-catering option; when searching for a holiday rental in Transkei District, it may be helpful to first choose the places and experiences that matter most to you.

Your preferred travel style can also guide your choice: a coastal hike with overnight stays in traditional Xhosa huts is very different from a stay in a self-catering chalet. Consider which option suits your plans, and focus your accommodation search on the relevant places. When travelling to the individual destinations, take their specific locations into account.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Port St Johns, Flagstaff, Kwa-Zulu, Ndengane, Mngungundlovu, Mapuzi.

Return to the higher-level travel overview: Eastern Cape.