While the Cape may be famous for its internationally acclaimed biodiversity and breathtaking scenery, the oft overlooked Wild Coast is arguably endowed with even richer treasures.
Pondoland, stretching 102km from the Mtanvuna River in KwaZulu-Natal to the Mthatha River in the Eastern Cape, is a veritable Garden of Eden.
Within this paradise lies Mkambati, a little-known nature reserve, offering secluded beaches, unspoiled forests, superb game viewing and exclusive fishing opportunities.
Inspired by the magic of the Wild Coast, conservation authors Div de Villiers and John Costello have compiled a coffee table book that will have armchair travelers out of their seats and booking their tickets to the region.
Lavishly illustrated, the book uncovers some of the mystique of our Wild Coast, exposing secrets that have only been known to local people, shipwreck survivors and adventurous explorers.
It focuses mainly on Pondoland, the most scenic and bio-diverse area of the Wild Coast and the superb photographs are accompanied by comprehensive text about the turbulent history of the area, colourful culture of the amaMpondo people, animal life and marine treasures. - Caroline Hurry
- Published by Wilderness Safaris, Mkambati and the Wild Coast, South Africa and Pondoland's unique heritage retails at R295.
- This article was originally published on page 19 of The Star on July 22, 2006