Wild Coast Road Trip

Experience the Wild Coast of South Africa on an unforgettable road trip. Beginning in the city of Durban and ending in East London, this 669 km journey takes you through some of the most incredible scenery in the country. The recommended time for the trip is two days, although there is plenty to see and do along the way, so you may want to take more time. The best time to embark on this journey is from April to October when the weather is mild and the roads are in excellent condition. The route is mainly composed of highways, but there are some curvy roads along the way. Suitable for all drivers, this road trip can be managed with a moderate budget. Make sure to stop off at Port Edward and Port St Johns for some spectacular views of the Wild Coast. There are plenty of attractions in both towns, so take your time to explore the local culture and cuisine. Enjoy the breathtaking sights and sounds of the Wild Coast on this unforgettable road trip!

Durban, located in the Republic of South Africa, is the starting point for the Wild Coast Road Trip. It is one of the most vibrant cities in South Africa, renowned for its beautiful beaches, warm climate and friendly locals. Durban is the gateway to the Zulu Kingdom, and offers a wealth of cultural experiences and historical sites to explore. The most interesting sights in town include the Moses Mabhida Stadium, uShaka Marine World, Durban Botanical Gardens, and the Golden Mile beachfront promenade. Durban is also home to several museums, galleries, and wildlife reserves. The city is well known for its rich Indian culture and its iconic Hindu temple, the Shri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple. For those traveling by air, Durban International Airport (DUR) is the closest international airport, and offers car rentals for those looking to begin their Wild Coast Road Trip. The airport is located approximately 10km from the city center and is easily accessible by taxi or shuttle bus. Durban is an ideal starting point for a Wild Coast Road Trip, offering a wealth of attractions, sights and experiences to explore. With its vibrant culture and welcoming locals, it is sure to be a memorable adventure.

Are you ready for a spectacular road trip from Durban to Port Edward? This 163 km journey takes less than two hours, and is full of interesting sights and attractions. Start your journey in Durban, the third most populous city in South Africa. Visit the world-famous Moses Mabhida Stadium, the Durban Botanic Gardens, and the iconic Golden Mile. Continue your journey to Port Edward, home to the Wild Coast Sun, the largest casino and entertainment complex in the country. Visit the Wild Waves Water Park, the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, and the Red Desert Nature Reserve. On your way, you'll pass through some of South Africa's most beautiful landscapes, including the rolling hills of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, and the lush green forests of the Wild Coast. So, pack your bags and hit the road! This road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Embark on a road trip from Port Edward to Port St Johns and discover the beauty of the Eastern Cape. This 193 km journey will take you around 4 hours to drive, with plenty of scenic roads to marvel at. As you drive, be prepared for some steep ramps and winding roads. Along the way, make sure to stop at Port Edward’s beautiful beaches, where you can take a dip and relax. Port St Johns is a picturesque town with a stunning beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Mbotyi River and the fascinating surrounding cliffs. For those looking for a more active adventure, the nearby Umzimvubu River is great for canoeing and fishing. There’s plenty more to discover on this road trip, so make sure to check the itinerary for more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites.

Embark on an amazing road trip from Port St Johns to East London! The 313km drive takes less than 5 hours and takes you through some of South Africa's most picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the rolling hills and winding roads. Be sure to keep an eye out for the occasional wildlife! Once you arrive in East London, you'll be able to explore the city's many attractions, such as the East London Aquarium, the East London Museum and the East London Zoo. You can also find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and campsites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Port St Johns to East London!

East London is the perfect ending point for the Wild Coast Road Trip, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. With its beautiful beaches, charming atmosphere, and diverse cultural attractions, it's an ideal destination for travelers looking for a laid-back atmosphere. The beaches of East London are some of the most beautiful in South Africa, with long white sand stretches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The city also has a variety of interesting cultural attractions, such as the East London Museum, an art gallery, and a local history museum. East London is also an excellent destination for nature lovers, with its many protected parks, including the East London National Botanical Gardens, the East London Zoo, and the East London Game Reserve. There are also plenty of activities to choose from, such as whale watching, fishing, and hiking. For those traveling by car, East London is easily accessible from the N2 highway, and the closest international airport is the East London Airport (ELS). At the end of the Wild Coast Road Trip, East London is an ideal destination to relax and enjoy the sights, sounds, and activities of the Eastern Cape. With its beautiful beaches, diverse attractions, and many activities, East London is an excellent destination for travelers of all kinds.

Before you set off

Embark on an unforgettable Road Trip along the Wild Coast, a stunning stretch of South Africa's eastern shoreline, from the vibrant city of Durban to the river port city of East London. Spanning approximately 669 km, this journey reveals some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery South Africa has to offer. While the Trip can be completed in two days, it's advisable to allow for a longer excursion to fully appreciate the wealth of sights and experiences along the way.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The adventure includes captivating stops at Port Edward, the southernmost town on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, and Port St Johns, a town with a rich history and an idyllic setting along the Umzimvubu River. These locales are gateways to the unspoiled beauty of the Wild Coast and provide a glimpse into the vibrant local culture and cuisine, delivering a comprehensive experience of South African coastal life. Along the route, travelers can explore the lush terrain, traditional Xhosa villages, the dramatic cliffs at Magwa Falls, and the Hole-in-the-Wall, a natural arch eroded by the waves.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time for this Road Trip is from April to October, when the weather is generally mild and pleasant, enhancing the overall travel experience. This period also coincides with the dry season, ensuring that the Roads are in optimal condition for travel.

Potential Risks:

The route includes highways as well as some winding Roads that hug the coastline and traverse hilly terrain. While the drive is suitable for all levels of experience, it is important to drive attentively and exercise caution on less familiar routes.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Road Trip is manageable with a moderate budget and is within reach for a wide range of travelers. It's advisable to plan strategic stops to fully engage with the stunning vistas, intriguing local attractions, and to avoid hurrying through this diverse and culturally rich region.

A good choice for:

The Wild Coast Road Trip is a journey that promises a collection of awe-inspiring vistas and a chance to delve into the region’s distinctive allure and cultural richness. It's a chance to encounter South Africa's untamed beauty, from the rolling hills and traditional rondavel huts to the majestic coastline and warm local hospitality, making it a must-do for any RoadTrip enthusiast.