Wild Child Africa is an adventure tourism company, born on the untouched coastline of Pondoland. We specialize in privately-guided, tailor-made adventures for tourists and corporate groups. Our mission is to safeguard the environments in which we operate through community focused and sustainable eco-tourism.
At the heart of this commitment is our flagship product, The Pondo Trail®—an exclusive, high-end adventure with a low environmental impact. This privately guided and fully supported journey redefines luxury in eco-tourism, offering an authentic and emotive experience for travellers. It is an opportunity to be wild, and free. A digital detox and opportunity to find genuine connection with nature, family and friends.
Wild Child Africa invites you to fall in love with Southern Africa, and develop a deep appreciation for the wild spaces we explore. Our carefully integrated ‘Wild Child touches’ create a series of unforgettable and life-changing moments. Join us on a journey where barefoot luxury meets community development and environmental sustainability.
As we venture through the Umdoni Forest on Day 2 of our Pondo Trail, we find a little extra magic at this time of year.
Behold the stunning Snake Lilies—also known as Scadoxus puniceus or ‘paintbrush’ Lilies—with their vibrant red-orange blooms that entice sunbirds and weavers to feast on their nectar. Though the bulbs are poisonous, this remarkable plant is widely used in traditional remedies for gastrointestinal issues and is among the most traded medicinal plants in South Africa.
There is no greater joy than revealing hidden gems like these to our Pondo Trail guests.
#wildchildafrica #pondotrail
Sep 5
After the launch of our 2026 calendar last week, the response has been nothing short of extraordinary.
We can feel a palpable shift in South Africa—a movement to travel local, support local, and experience the hidden gems right on our doorstep. We are witnessing a renewed pride and passion for our beautiful country, and more and more people are looking for ways to experience and celebrate it.
Last week’s early bird launch was the single busiest week since our family business began, and it’s a real testament to the number of people looking to pause and disconnect from the craziness of the world.
We are both humbled and inspired by this overwhelming support. Here’s to more unforgettable explorations into wild valleys, hidden trails and forgotten beaches.
#wildchildafrica #pondotrail #wildcoast #satourism #proudlysouthafrican
Aug 22
Clear the mind and stretch the legs as we wander endless beaches, catch ghost crabs, snorkel pristine reefs, and soak in the salt and sun in Maputaland before enjoying Wild Child’s signature sundowners overlooking Lake Shengeza.
Join us for another wilderness experience and cultural immersion at our Kosi Experience.
Head to www.wildchildafrica.com for more info.
#wildchildafrica #kosibay #turtles
Aug 21
Mlambomkhulu Falls, often incorrectly referred to as Waterfall bluff, is one of 2 waterfalls along the bluff that cascade directly into the ocean. There are less than 15 rivers in the entire world that fall directly into the sea and we think Mlambomkhulu is by far the best.
📷: @pickfordwildlifephotography
#wildchildafrica #wildcoast #satourism #chasingwaterfalls
Aug 8
Even ‘off duty,’ our commitment to exploring and cherishing the wild wonders of Pondoland remains steadfast.
Wild Child director Tim Botha and his daughter, Bella, recently embarked on an unsupported expedition into the heart of Pondoland. Their journey is a testament to our dedication to living the life we advocate for our guests—discovering new hidden secrets and embracing the untamed beauty of this magical place.
This is how we are able to add those ‘Wild Child touches’ that so deeply move our guests—Pondoland is in our DNA. We thought you might enjoy some snippets from this special father-daughter adventure.
#wildchildafrica #pondoland #wildcoastsouthafrica #ecotourism #satourism
Jul 26
Just like our Pondo Trail, the Kosi Experience blends wild Africa and authentic culture, creating unforgettable moments and elements of surprise. Our team will once again guide you through this journey, ensuring not just a physical adventure but a deep cultural immersion. Expect those special Wild Child touches that promise to make your experience truly unforgettable.
We still have a few slots available in October – December this year. Head to the website for more details and to secure your next Wild Child adventure.
#wildchildafrica #kosibay #loggerheadturtle #adventuretourism
Jul 19
The fortunate few who’ve traversed the Wild Coast with one of our Wild Child guides can speak to how they are able to unlock the hidden marvels of Pondoland, revealing the true magic of this enchanting place. Take, for instance, this extraordinary moment captured by @keithnadauld . Witness the mesmerizing sight of thousands of juvenile Varuna litterata, commonly known as river crabs, as they hatch and begin their remarkable journey downstream to the ocean.
#wildchildafrica #pondotrail #chasingwaterfalls #wildcoast
Jul 12
We are very sorry if we are unable to accommodate you in 2025 but we put the sustainability of our coastline at the forefront of what we do.
Pop us a mail to join the early bird list for 2026 bookings- opening soon. Trust us, it’s worth waiting for.
#pondotrail #wildcoast #wildchildafrica
Jul 11
Each winter, billions of sardines gather together to journey from the cold Atlantic waters into the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean’s Pondoland Coastline. This migration is widely regarded as the ‘Greatest Shoal on Earth’ and the seething mass is accompanied by numerous predators as well as the largest concentration of large marine mammals on Earth. Guests this month have been spoilt with incredible dolphin and whale sightings. There really is no bad time of year in Pondoland!
📷: @pickfordwildlifephotography
#sardinerun #wildcoast #pondotrail #wildchildafrica
Jul 5
Miles of desolate beaches, virgin dune forests, bountiful coral reefs, mangrove swamps and rare raffia palm forests set the scene for exploration and adventure- Wild Child Style.
The nesting and subsequent hatching of the turtles is a natural phenomenon comparable to the greatest wildlife experiences in Africa.
Bookings are open for Oct - Dec for our Kosi Turtle Experience. E-mail info@wildchildafrica.com to secure your spot or head to our website for more info.
Mar 1
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Our adventure starts in Port Edward if you choose the ocean safari transfer, or at Mtentu if you would rather travel by road. The day then offers incredible diversity in a mostly forgotten wilderness through the Mkambathi Nature Reserve; grass plains with a large range of antelope, a picnic lunch beneath a crystal-clear waterfall and finishing with sundowners overlooking the Msikaba estuary. Overnight at Msikaba Beach Camp. Distance +- 15km.
Optional – A boat transfer from Port Edward to Mtentu not only misses out a long and bumpy dirt road but allows for a phenomenal ocean safari to view dolphins, whales and the sardine migration in season. Highly recommended!
An early wakeup will coax you out of bed for a sunrise paddle up the Msikaba estuary for coffee and rusks before returning for breakfast at camp. The trail continues South from Msikaba to Luphatana past the site of the famous Grosvenor shipwreck, conveniently situated beside a protected beach, perfect for a lunchbreak and siesta. Champagne Mile and the famous Wild Coast salt-water-shower marks the end of the day’s walk and bring us to the rustic Luphatana Beach Camp where we will rest our heads for the night. Distance +- 18km.
This day is a mighty one! Filled with majestic landmarks and breath-taking viewpoints. Waterfall Bluff, Bessie’s Cave and Cathedral Rock are only a few of the highlights that can be looked forward to. Overnight at Mbotyi River Lodge. Distance +- 19km.
As in every good story, we save the best for last. The short stretch from Mbotyi to Manteku is the epitome of this beautiful coastline; boasting five secluded, Milkwood framed beaches, linked only by secret cattle paths. Manteku’s private beach and estuary offers the perfect end to your life-changing journey. Distance +- 10km.
DAY 5
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and return home sporting the glorious “Pondo Glow”
As in every good story, we save the best for last. The short stretch from Mbotyi to Manteku is the epitome of this beautiful coastline; boasting five secluded, Milkwood framed beaches, linked only by secret cattle paths. Manteku’s private beach and estuary offers the perfect end to your life-changing journey. Distance +- 10km.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and return home sporting the glorious “Pondo Glow”
The perfect balance of luxury, yet rustic, challenging yet manageable for all skill levels; meditative, social, thought provoking and therefore epically profound.
Bron and Bill