Port Edward

Port Edward is bounded by the spectacular Umtamvuna River Gorge and its lush forest. It's idyllic beaches are fringed with dense dune forest. Some are popular with both fishermen and surfers. A short drive over the Umtamvuna River bridge will bring you into the Wild Coast.

Activities and sightseeing in the area

Wild Coast hiking and horse trails into the Wild Coast

Hiking and horse trails into the Wild Coast begin here.

The Red Desert

This mars-like terrain is supposedly the smallest desert in the world.

Wakeboarding and water-skiing

The still waters of The Old Pont is perfect for watersports. Beginners and pros are welcome.

The Sardine Run

It's a mystery why millions of these small shimmering fish migrate north from the Cape waters along the east coast, but it's an amazing spectacle. The shoals are preyed upon on all sides - cape gannets dive bomb the water from above, bottle-nosed dolphins and sharks herd the shoals into bait balls the netters haul the fish in the thousands. The sardines run between May and June.

Oribi Gorge

Travellers looking for a break can make the short drive inland to the Oribi Gorge. There are several viewpoints from which to enjoy the views across the gorge. Eagle's Nest in the Lake Eland Game Reserve has a suspension bridge across the ravine in the Indiana Jones style, only much less rickety. There are hiking trails both at the top of the gorge and inside the 'little gorge' along the Umzimkulu River. There is also horse riding, abseiling, a zipline slide and river rafing in summer.

The world's highest gorge swing

Oribi gorge boasts the world's highest gorge swing; a 77m freefall followed by a 100m swing. You're then then slowly winched up. You're not strapped in by your feet, so there's no hanging upside down, instead you can relax and enjoy the view.

Diving

Protea Banks is a renowned shark-diving sites Divers can spot ragged-tooths, hammerheads, zambezis and even great whites sometimes make an appearance. Diving operators in the area do not offer cage diving, so be prepared to come face to face with sharks without bars in the way.

Dolphin and whale watching

Humpback whales are regular visitors to the east coast in winter. Both dolphins and whales can be spotted from the shore. For a close encounter, boat charters operate from Shelly Beach.

Deep sea fishing

Deep sea fishing charters operate from Shelly Beach and tend to be very affordable. The experience can be fun and very rewarding sinceyou get to keep your catch and have fresh fish for dinner. Anglers can reel in tuna and salmon for sushi and other tasy fish to go on the braai.