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If you’re looking for a place to immerse yourself in the culture, nature and beauty of the Wild Coast, look no further than Mdumbi Backpackers. This award-winning hostel is nestled in the heart of the Transkei, a region rich in history, tradition and diversity. Here, you’ll find panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, secluded white sand beaches, rolling green hills and friendly locals who will welcome you into their village.
Mdumbi Backpackers offers a range of comfortable and rustic accommodation options, from traditional rondavels to wooden huts to safari beds to camping. All have access to communal bathroom and cooking facilities, as well as a cozy lounge area and a bar. The rooms are simple but cozy, with colorful bedding, mosquito nets and lanterns. Some have ocean views and private balconies.
But you won’t want to spend too much time indoors, because there’s so much to do and see around Mdumbi. Whether you’re a surfer, a hiker, a kayaker or a horse rider, you’ll find something to suit your taste and skill level. Mdumbi is home to one of the best surf spots in Southern Africa, with a world-class point break that offers long and consistent waves. You can rent a board or take a lesson from one of the local instructors, who are also part of the community-owned surf club.
If you prefer to explore the land, you can join a guided hike along the coast, where you’ll discover hidden caves, water pools and cliffs. You can also take a walk through the village and learn about the culture and history of the amaXhosa people, who live in traditional mud huts and practice their ancestral beliefs. You might even get invited to join a ceremony or a dance performance.
For a different perspective, you can hop on a kayak and paddle up the tranquil Mdumbi river, where you’ll see a variety of birds and fish. Or you can saddle up a horse and gallop along the beach, feeling the wind in your hair and the sand under your hooves.
After a day of adventure, you can relax with a massage or enjoy a delicious meal prepared by Mama, who uses fresh ingredients from the garden and the sea. Don’t miss the Saturday seafood feast, where you can feast on crayfish, mussels, calamari and more. You can also join the bonfire on the beach at night, where you can chat with other travelers, listen to music or watch the stars.
Mdumbi Backpackers is more than just a place to stay. It’s a place to connect with nature, with yourself and with others. It’s a place where you can make a positive impact on the environment and the community, by supporting their sustainable and eco-friendly practices. It’s a place where you can experience the true spirit of the Wild Coast.
Sustainability
Mdumbi Backpackers is not only committed to providing quality accommodation and services to its guests, but also to empowering its local community and protecting its natural resources. The hostel is partly owned by the community, and all the activities are run by local villagers who receive training and fair wages. The hostel also supports Transcape, an NPO that works on various projects such as education, health care, agriculture and conservation in the area.
Mdumbi Backpackers also strives to minimize its environmental impact by using solar power, rainwater harvesting, composting toilets and organic gardening. The hostel also recycles its waste, reduces its plastic use and educates its guests on how to be responsible travelers. By staying at Mdumbi Backpackers, you are not only enjoying a unique and authentic experience, but also contributing to the well-being of this beautiful place and its people.
Wider region
The Transkei is one of the most fascinating and diverse regions in South Africa. It was once an independent homeland during apartheid, where Nelson Mandela was born and buried. Today, it is part of the Eastern Cape province, but it still retains its distinct identity and culture. The Transkei is home to the amaXhosa people, who live in traditional villages scattered across the hills and valleys. They speak isiXhosa, one of the official languages of South Africa that features click sounds.
The Transkei is also known for its stunning coastline, which stretches for hundreds of kilometers along the Indian Ocean. This is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa, as well as some of the best surf spots. The coastline is dotted with rocky headlands, lagoons, rivers and waterfalls that create a dramatic landscape. The coastline is also rich in wildlife, such as whales, dolphins, turtles and sharks that frequent its waters.
The Transkei is a place where you can experience both history and nature in one trip. It’s a place where you can learn about the past and the present of South Africa, as well as its diversity and beauty. It’s a place where you can discover a different way of life, and appreciate its simplicity and authenticity.
Kids
Mdumbi Backpackers is family friendly, and welcomes children of all ages. There are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, such as playing on the beach, swimming in the lagoon, riding horses or joining cultural workshops. The hostel also provides cots, high chairs and toys for babies and toddlers.
Getting there
The best way to get to Mdumbi Backpackers is by car. You can drive from Durban or Port Elizabeth along the N2 highway, and then take the R61 towards Coffee Bay. From there, follow the signs to Mdumbi on a gravel road for 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus to Mthatha, and then a taxi to Mdumbi. The closest airport is Mthatha Airport, where you can rent a car or take a taxi.
- Employs local people
- Funds projects
- Community led or owned
- Nature
- Culture
- Beach or coast
- Spa
- Restaurant
- Wifi
- Playground
- Up to 2
- Up to 4
- Up to 8
- Over 8
- Family
- Tented camp
- Cabin
- Watersports
- Cultural visit
