This was our PWE Wild Coast 2025!

On 5 November 2025, our 11-day Private Wilderness Experience began in one of South Africa’s most untouched landscapes: the Wild Coast in the Mkambati Nature Reserve.

A place where time moves differently – gentler, slower, more natural. Between rolling grasslands, rugged coastal cliffs and an endless ocean horizon, you enter a wilderness that resists any sense of haste.

The region is one of the world’s 34 most important biodiversity hotspots – a living mosaic of plant diversity, rare wildlife and ancient stories.

Led by our friends and expert guides Alan McSmith, Grant Hine and Meg McSmith, we set out on days filled with discovery, encounters and stillness – and on a journey that was more than an outdoor adventure: it was an immersion into simply being in nature.

Exploring on foot, by canoe and along the coast

#1 Hiking and coastal adventures

Our days often began with the first light of dawn: quiet walks along a still-sleeping beach, kudus appearing silently in the morning mist, and hikes to spectacular waterfalls such as the Mkambati and Strandloper Falls – where water plunges straight into the sea or cascades over rock shelves into turquoise natural pools.

We followed paths to weathered shipwrecks, swam in rocky tidal pools, spotted an octopus and learned much along the way about tracking, ecosystems and the history of the Transkei. The game drives offered new perspectives time and again: through vast grasslands, past antelope, zebras and impressive coastal plateaus.

#2 A change of perspective: Kayaking

A special sense of freedom awaited us on the Mtentu River – gliding silently, surrounded by cliffs and flowing stillness. The kayak excursions took us to waterfalls and sun-warmed stone terraces. Drinking coffee on a heated rock in the middle of the river became a moment that captured the essence of this journey: simplicity, nature, presence.

#3 Into the water: Wonder and wildness

Right at the start, we experienced one of the most magical moments: the boat transfer, during which dolphins and coastal birds greeted us. A welcome that immediately conveyed how alive and untouched this coastline is.

Many took advantage of the natural pools and waterfalls, jumping from five-metre-high rocks, while others swam in the sea or let themselves drift in the salty water. The blend of activity and mindfulness allowed us to experience the landscape with all our senses.

Later, part of the group explored the surroundings by mountain bike – an adventure in itself: wind on the face, salt on the skin.

A quieter yet equally profound contrast was the forest bathing with Grant Hine. In the midst of a small, almost enchanted patch of woodland, he guided us into a deeply mindful way of perceiving nature: slowing down, listening, breathing. A quiet, powerful moment for many of us.

Alan McSmith also shared his deep knowledge – for example, through a striking demonstration with a voltmeter, revealing how energy flows through natural systems. This combination of education and observation made our journey truly unique.

The GweGwe Beach Lodge – Comfort, warmth and wilderness in perfect balance

Our accommodation, GweGwe Lodge, is far more than a place to sleep – it is a small gem along the Wild Coast. Nestled into gentle hills and overlooking the untouched shoreline, it blends comfort, nature and tranquillity in a profoundly moving way.

From the moment you wake, your eyes open directly to the sea: waves breaking in the distance, a sky shifting between soft pastels and deep blues depending on the time of day – and the sound of the ocean as a constant companion.

The lodge is lovingly and sustainably built. Natural materials, open spaces and warm tones create a feeling of lightness. The outdoor showers are particularly memorable, allowing you to wash beneath the open sky – accompanied by birdsong and the scent of the ocean. Each of the nine suites offers privacy while fostering a deep sense of connection with the landscape.

Culinary delights awaited us every day: the fantastic food – fresh, creative and prepared with great care – was an experience in itself. From fragrant breakfasts and light lunches to dinners beneath the stars, each meal was shaped by quality, warmth and local ingredients.

What truly defines this place, however, is the wonderful team. With open arms, genuine kindness and heartfelt hospitality, they created an atmosphere of warmth and serenity – one in which you instantly felt at home. GweGwe Lodge is not simply a place to stay; it is a place that moves you.

A unique ecosystem: Cape Vultures, dolphins and moments that stay

As the days unfolded, our connection to this stretch of coastline deepened.

We witnessed dolphins at sunrise, encountered Cape vultures, spotted a sea turtle in the late-afternoon light, found jellyfish along the beach, and shared quiet moments in caves and on deserted shores.

Each day had its own story:

• cycling through wide grasslands
• birdwatching with Grant
• discovering rock art along the gorges
• watching a sea turtle swim in the Indian Ocean
• shared sundowners at North Beach
• evenings around a fire beneath a sky full of stars

On our final night, we celebrated with a special beach dinner – filled with gratitude for the natural world, for the group and for being part of a journey that actively supports the protection of this region and its local communities.

PWE Wild Coast 2025 was more than a trip. It was a reminder that wilderness is not merely a place, but a feeling – and a gift that deserves our care and attention.

Anyone who visits the Wild Coast encounters not just a landscape, but the essence of slow travel: slowing down, paying attention, sensing, breathing. And experiencing nature in its purest form.

Thank you to everyone who made this journey so special!

Next starting date: 11.09.2026