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Africa Adventure Travel News

Africa Adventure Travel News - Edition 24 -
September 2008

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Legend has it, that in 1863 a ship laden with coffee beans ran aground on the Wild Coast. As a result, coffee plants (no longer visible) sprung up all over the area, giving Coffee Bay its name.

Travel Routes in South Africa
Africa Adventure Travel News Map Wild Coast

Easily accessible form the N2 highway, lies the small community of Coffee Bay. This is real beachcomber country with rustic accommodation, great beaches and excellent fishing. However, it is undoubtedly the natural phenomenon of the Hole in the Wall which best describes the beauty of the area. The hole, a geographical marvel, is an offshore stack of rock through which the elements have eroded a hole. Many myths and legends surround its existence and its beauty will leave you enthralled.

Situated in a part of the country which remains seeped in old traditions, on the banks of the Mtata River, lies the vibrant town of Mthatha (previously Umtata). The town was founded in 1879 and was the capital of the "Transkei", homeland of the Xhosa, during the Apartheid era. Although the town houses a small airport and a university, it has managed to retain much of the old-world and you will still find women in traditional dress and domestic animals strolling down the street.

Often referred to as the "hippie village", on the wild side of the Wild Coast, Port St Johns is a highlight of every adventure loving individual. It is situated alongside the massive Umzimvubu River which has carved its way through the ancient rocks leaving two 300 meter ramparts towering on either side. The sea is always close by, crashing onto the rocky shores which guard the secluded beaches and the village centre offers a unique blend of cultural richness where the Xhosa culture, both traditional and modern, is always apparent.

Melissa Mann
From the Editor

South Africa's Wild Coast region of the Eastern Cape is known for its spectacular beauty, rolling green hills and unspoiled coastline, not to mention that this is the homeland of Nelson Mandela. The famous statesman was born in Qunu, just outside Mthatha and it is here where Madiba spent his formative years. Whether you choose to go hiking on the many trails along the coast, through the dense forest, or spend long lazy days sunning your self on the rugged and remote beaches, the Wild Coast, has it all. Your ultimate holiday destination with countless natural attractions and a rich cultural heritage, be sure not to miss out!

Yours in Travel
Melissa Mann
 
Travel Route Highlight 1
Travel Route Highlight 2
Travel Route Highlight 3
Coffee Bay and Hole in the Wall
Nelson Mandela Museum
Port St Johns

At the mouth of the Nenga (river of the whale), lies Coffee Bay. Surrounded by high cliffs and rolling green hills, this resort has some of the best beaches and surfing spots in the area.

Mthatha (Umtata) is a lively, colourful and very African town in the heart of the Wild Coast. It is home to the Nelson Mandela Museum, which tells of Madiba's journey through life.

Embedded in sub-tropical rain forests, the village of Port St Johns offers a unique blend of cultural richness. Surrounded by sea and river, it is referred to as the jewel of the Wild Coast.

   
Mammals of Africa
Trees of Africa
Birds of Africa
Cape Clawless Otter
Pompon tree
Black Oystercatcher

Cape Clawless Otters are very playful, often indulging in mock fights and playing with sticks and stones.They are very agile, spending more time out of water than in it.

One of the best known indigenous trees, growing naturally in riverine and forest areas, the Pompon tree transforms into a cloud of pink balls when in flower.

The endangered African Black Oystercatchers are found along both, rocky and sandy shores of the coast. They feed at low tide, on limpets and mussels.

   
Drinks of Africa
Foods of Africa
Culture & Art of Africa
Umqombothi
Roosterbrood Preparation
Xhosa Women
Umqombothi is a traditional beer prepared by the elder woman of the tribe, who cover their heads during the preparation process as respect for the ancestors.

Roosterbrood is a type of local bread that is cooked over an open fire. It is often served as an accompaniment to meat or chicken at a braai (barbecue).

The Xhosa people of South Africa are still bound by the traditions and lifestyle of their forefathers and many customs and rituals have stayed intact.
   
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