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The Pondoland region, located in the northern section of South Africa’s former Transkei, remains one of the country’s most unspoiled and hidden treasures. This area is marked by its pristine coastline, minimal infrastructure, and significant economic challenges. The community is primarily composed of women, children, and the elderly, with subsistence living being the norm. The lack of road access has preserved its natural beauty, but this also means that the region remains largely unprotected from potential environmental threats.
Spanning 103 km from the Mtumvuna River in Port Edward to the Umzimvubu River in Port St. Johns, the Pondoland coastline is a delicate ecosystem. Only a 15 km stretch within the Mkambathi Nature Reserve is officially protected, leaving the rest vulnerable to exploitation. The Pondoland Conservation Trust aims to safeguard this fragile environment by promoting sustainable, high-end, low-impact tourism that benefits the local communities. By involving these communities in tourism, we hope to discourage harmful developments and preserve this natural wonder for future generations.
Through our Pondoland Conservation Trust, we have implemented several impactful projects to date:
Reel Life Gardens
Providing 3 communities with over 500 household gardens which each producing vegetables for a family of 4, every day for 6 months.
Water is Life
drilling of 3 boreholes (wells) with merry-go-round play pumps which provide drinking water to 3 different communities in Pondoland.
Community Cup Soccer Tournament
an annual soccer tournament that brings communities together to celebrate unity, culture and the beautiful land we live in.
Gift of Warmth
an annual, pre-winter delivery to 4 communities consisting of blankets, warm clothing, books and stationery.
Operation Smile
the funding of facial reconstructive surgery and life-changing smiles to over 40 children born with cleft lip and/or palate.
The Pondoland Conservation Trust is a registered not-for-profit organization, with all proceeds directly benefiting the communities of Pondoland. We invite you to join us in our mission to protect and uplift this extraordinary region.
To make your contribution use the banking details below;
Bank Details:
Pondoland Conservation Trust
First National Bank
Acc: 63001916551
Branch code: 220629
Swift code: FIRNZAJJ
Tax Exemption Number: 1177999248
Postal Address:
PO Box 263
La Lucia
4153
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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”
4-night Kosi Experience with your own hand-picked group of guests.
Please note that our Kosi Experience is unfortunately sold out for 2026. Please find 2027 availability below.
The great news is that in 2027 our Kosi Experience is available year-round!
4-night Pondo Trail with a mixed group of like-minded individuals, couples or families.
4-night Pondo Trail with your own hand-picked group of guests. (20 – 24 pax)
4-night Pondo Trail with your own hand-picked group of guests, premium menu, bar and wines, additional camp comforts and some extra ‘Wild Child Surprises’. (20 – 24 pax)
Unfortunately, our Pondo Trail bookings are sold out for 2026. Please chose a date for your 2027 departure below.