Joseph Trails offers a unique and exciting experience, combining a 5 day hike with a cultural tour through the Transkei. Explore untouched trails over rolling hills, wild beaches; through dense forests, and across tranquil rivers, while Joseph, a local to the area, shows you the way. Stay overnight in Xhosa homesteads and get to know the local people, their culture and traditions. Your hosts will
treat you to traditional cuisine for breakfast and dinner. ABOUT JOSEPH TRAILS
Joseph is a local to the area. Through his knowledge and experience you can emerge into the local culture and traditions. There are no fences between you and the local people, and no hierarchies. This style of travelling brings cultures together while still benefiting local economy. Joseph is a member of the Tourist Guide Association, a voluntary membership organisation of local tour guides. All guides have undergone Tourist Guide and First Aid Training. WHERE:
Guided hikes start in Port st Johns and end in Coffee Bay, with the following stops along the way:
Day 1: Umgazana
Day 2: Mpande
Day 3: Hluleka
Day 4: Mdumbi
The total distance of the hike is approximately 65 km. Joseph will allow you to set the pace, so it’s even suitable for novice hikers. The walk will take you over rolling green hills, and you will often walk along the beach, or along the edge of the forest with magical ocean views. Along the way you will also stop at a number of beaches and will be ferried across rivers. Lunch stops will give you a chance to explore the scenic wonders, marvel at indigenous forests and swim in the sea. WHAT TO BRING
Sunblock
Hat
Poncho - rainy season is Oct - Mar
Cash for ferry crossings - about R40-50
Lunch snacks (think dried fruit/biltong, nuts, canned tuna, energy bars)
Water bottles - these can be refilled at every overnight stop
Medical aid provisions
HOW TO GET THERE
Long distance busses stop in Mthatha, where you can get a local minibus taxi to Port St Johns. If you drive and leave your vehicle in Port St Johns, you can then take a taxi back to Port St Johns from Coffee Bay at the end of the hike. Some backpackers in the area also offer shuttles to and from Mthatha. OTHER INFO
You will pass spaza shops along the way, and most overnight stops will have one. Here you can buy basic provisions
Local shebeens (liquor stores) will sell beers and ciders - very cheap! You can also visit a Sangoma (traditional healer) and when your muscles are starting to get sore, you may even be offered a massage by one of your hosts! Joseph trails invites you to come and explore the beautiful, untouched Eastern Cape. We support a number of families in the area, and we thank you for assisting us in helping these people make a living from tourism.
