Activities & Experiences
Things To Do at Hole in the Wall
From world-class fishing and dramatic hikes to whale watching and cultural village visits — there is never a dull moment on the Wild Coast.
Fishing
4 activities available at Hole in the Wall
Rock & surf fishing
World-class kob, bream, and garrick fishing off the rocks
Fly fishing
Estuary and river fly fishing for kingfish and other estuary fish
Spearfishing
Crystal-clear waters with excellent visibility in summer
Deep-sea charters
Offshore charters available from Port St Johns (1.5 hrs)
Hiking & Walking
4 activities available at Hole in the Wall
Hole in the Wall walk
30-min coastal walk to the iconic rock arch — unmissable
Cliffside trails
Dramatic cliff-edge paths with panoramic Indian Ocean views
River walk (Mpako)
Follow the Mpako River through indigenous forest to the sea
Village walks
Cultural walks through local Xhosa communities
Ocean & Beach
4 activities available at Hole in the Wall
Swimming
Sheltered spots suitable for safe swimming at low tide
Snorkeling
Explore the rich marine life in the clear rock pools and gullies
Surfing
Rideable waves for intermediate surfers along the coast
Boogie boarding
Perfect waves for kids and beginners
Wildlife & Nature
4 activities available at Hole in the Wall
Whale watching
Humpbacks and southern right whales pass close to shore (Jun–Nov)
Bird watching
200+ species including African fish eagle, Knysna turaco & loeries
Dolphin watching
Common dolphins play in the surf year-round from shore
Rock pool exploring
Rich tidal ecosystems teeming with starfish, octopus & anemones
Culture & Day Trips
4 activities available at Hole in the Wall
Coffee Bay day trip
Drive 30km north to the famous backpacker hub and more great beaches
Xhosa village visits
Authentic cultural experiences with local guide and community
Mthatha Museum
History of Nelson Mandela and the Xhosa nation (90km away)
Wild Coast Meander
Drive the iconic scenic route through the rolling Wild Coast hills
Relaxation
4 activities available at Hole in the Wall
Sunset watching
Best sunsets in South Africa from the cliff tops — bar none
Stargazing
Zero light pollution means extraordinary night skies
Braai evenings
The quintessential South African experience — fire, food, family
Photography
Every vista is a masterpiece — bring a good camera
Getting There
How to Reach Hole in the Wall
By Air
Fly to King Sabata Dalindyebo Airport (MZF) in Mthatha — approximately 90km from Hole in the Wall. Car hire is available at the airport.
By Road from Durban
Approximately 8 hours via the N2 and R61 through Mthatha. The drive through the Eastern Cape hills is beautiful.
By Road from Port Elizabeth
Approximately 7.5 hours via the N2 and R61.
The last section of road from the R61 to Hole in the Wall is a gravel road — a 4x4 or higher clearance vehicle is recommended during th rainy season.
Ready to Experience It For Yourself?
Book one of our four self-catering cottages and discover why so many South Africans have been returning to Hole in the Wall for generations.