Away From the Himalayas, This Wild and off-Beat Trek Is a Must for All Mountain Lovers!

Every country has its popular tourist spots and hidden gems. Over years, I have particularly come to enjoy discovering these off-beat experiences across the world. South Africa is a fantastic country rich with geographical and ethnic diversity. While Kruger National Park and Cape Town have solidified their positions on the map, this country has a pristine stretch of coastline from Port St Johns to Coffee Bay. The hike across the cliff, overlooking stunning landscape on both sides, then on the pebbles on the beach and through caves is unlike anything you might have experienced. There are two versions - 3 day and 5 day treks. Every night, you stay at a new hotel. A trekking guide (recommended) can be arranged by these hotels.

Once we reached Hewanorra International Airport, it took us 90 minutes to get to a cute hotel, called Morgan Bay Hotel. The hotel had our names printed in the menu, and that obviously was a great start of the trip.

Next day early morning, we started the trek. As we moved through the beautiful country side roads, the proximity to the coastline and the cliffs, made us excited.

The initial part of the trek was more about climbing through the green hills. It would be a 10km trek on the first day.

The cliffs can get quite steep. So a bit of practice with fitness before this trip is recommended. This also ensures that you enjoy the hike without feeling exasperated.

Once we were on the cliff, we could see the Indian Ocean was on our left side. It was a view worth remembering for the combination of both cliffs and coastline.

After a daylong hike, we reached another seaside beautiful hotel, called Haga Haga Hotel. After a daylong trek, we were a bit tired and were craving for some good food. The hotel was exceeded our expectation in terms of cozy room as well as continental spread.

Next day, we were supposed to walk on the beach. While it sounded easier than the climb, we were told that it would be more difficult due to the pebbles and the coastline structure formation.

Soon we could understand the value of the advice from our guide. It was a sight to behold, while walking very carefully on this structure without hurting our feet.

We also had to cross this river to go the other side. It was freezing cold, but oh so beautiful.

We carried packed lunch and our luncheon was in a secluded spot that day. We definitely enjoyed the break after walking for almost 10 km.

The same spot also had caves. And we took some time to wonder at those caves. After a great lunch, we were reenergised to embark on the last leg of the hike.

After walking for almost 16km that day, we reached our final destination in the evening. As they say, save the best for the last. Crawfords Beach Lodge was a luxury stay with the best pub.

We met a bunch of travellers from across the world who were also celebrating their completion of hike there.We had a great time celebrating the amazing wildcoast trek before moving to our next destination from there.

Wildcoast in South Africa was such an unexplored trekking experience that I would cherish it for years to come.

Do you know about any such off-beat trekking trail? Do let me know in the comment section.

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Rids