There’s an undying allure to places that have transitioned from historical significance to modern marvels. Kei Mouth, once a sanctuary for rebels and renegades in the distant days of the Cape Colony, now finds itself a beacon for modern adventurers — those seeking refuge from the confines of lockdown and yearning for the raw beauty of the Wild Coast.
Please note: We’ve included the prices as a guideline – but although they were correct at the time of travel, they’re liable to change at the owner’s discretion. Please confirm with individual establishments before booking.
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A Journey Along the Great Kei River
Source: Facebook / @KeiMouthTourism
The waters ripple and glisten as the sun dips and casts a golden sheen on the expansive Great Kei River. High above, a watchful fish eagle perches, its gaze fixed on the fish Clint Gower teasingly suspends from his barge. Clint, a seasoned fisherman with a deep affinity for these regal birds, has aptly named his venture “Fish Eagle River Cruises.” Alongside him, Desmond Tilolo, his trusty partner in both river cruising and the “Wild Coast Fishing Charters,” shares the sentiment. They always have a treat for the eagles, ensuring these majestic creatures are never left wanting.
The region thrives on its fishing culture. With the Amathole Offshore Marine Protected Area nearby, it offers fertile breeding grounds for a diverse array of fish. Whether rock, surf, or deep-sea fishing, the rewards are rich — catches often include cob, geelbek, and Cape salmon.
Kei Mouth isn’t just a picturesque location; it’s a treasure trove of stories and facts:
- Bird Watcher’s Paradise: With its varied ecosystems, Kei Mouth is one of the select locations in the South African Bird Atlas project where enthusiasts can identify over 300 bird species.
- Diamonds and Drama: In the 1920s, Farmer John Boch stumbled upon a fortune — over 1,000 raw diamonds on the northern bank of the Kei River. But instead of celebrating, he faced incarceration for allegedly “salting” a claim. Local lore suggests these diamonds might have been possessions of survivors from the Grosvenor shipwreck of 1782, who tragically didn’t make it while navigating the Wild Coast.
- The Last of the Ferries: South Africa has only three river ferry pontoons left. One is at Kei Mouth, the other floats over the Breede River at Malgas, and the last one is found at Sendlingsdrift in the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.
Snapshot: Horses from the Wild Coast Horse Trails expertly navigate these pontoon river crossings, while the lagoon at Double Mouth offers a serene kayaking experience with nature.
Source: Facebook / @KeiMouthTourism
What to do in Kei Mouth
1. Great Kei Adventures:
Explore with guided kayaking at R600 per person for a three-hour adventure.
Morgan Bay Cliff Abseil at R350 per person for two hours.
Contact: 072 149 8612 | Great Kei Adventures
2. Wild Coast Horse Riding Adventures:
Experience the coastline with beach rides starting at R545 for a beginner’s 90-minute ride to R1,200 for a full-day waterfall adventure.
Dive into multi-day horseback adventures along the Wild Coast.
Contact: 082 567 0972 | Wild Coast Horses
3. Fish Eagle Cruises:
Sail the Kei River with your picnics or braais.
Private group bookings are available for up to 12 passengers: R1,800 for a 2.5-hour trip or R2,700 for a 4.5-hour journey.
Contact: 082 567 0972 | Fish Eagle Cruises
4. Wild Coast Fishing Charters:
Whether rock and surf or deep sea, starting at R1,300 per person, including tackle and bait.
Contact: 082 771 9206 | Wild Coast Fishing Charters
5. Surfing Adventures:
Learn to ride the waves at the renowned point break at Main Beach with instructor Connor McLaughlin. R300 per person for a 90-minute lesson.
Contact: 072 638 7227
6. Siya MTB Mountain Bike Trails:
Suitable for riders of all skill levels at R150 per person for a group ride.
Contact: 063 943 1482 | Facebook
7. Quicks Hiking Trails:
Embark on guided nature and coastal walks starting at R200 per person for half a day.
Contact: 078 951 0425
8. Strandloper Trail:
A scenic four-day hike from Kei Mouth to Gonubie. Prices start at R800 per person, with options for more luxurious stays.
Contact: 083 285 4773 | Strandloper Trails
9. Chrysalis Nature College Eco-Walks:
Explore nature with half-day outings from R250.
Contact: 074 042 2996 | Facebook
10. Trevor’s Trails:
Dive into a variety of hikes and cultural visits. A highlight is the three-hour trip to The Gates, starting at R150 per person.
Contact: 047 498 0004 | Trevor’s Trails at Trennerys
11. Kei Mouth Country Club:
Tee off at a golf course with stunning sea views, enjoy the Park Run every Saturday, and relax at the River Cafe.
Contact: 043 841 1083
12. The Kei Mouth Pontoon:
Open 365 days a year, from 7 am to 6 pm in summer and until 5.30 pm in winter. R100 for vehicles and R50 for bikes, horses, and cattle.
More Info: Kei Mouth & Kei Country
Source: Facebook / @KeiMouthTourism
Accommodation in Kei Mouth
1. Kei Mouth Guest Lodge:
Nestled amidst lush gardens, this charming lodge offers:
- Three en-suite rooms, each equipped with a kettle and fridge.
- A spacious two-bedroom family suite on the upper level boasts a convenient kitchenette, a deck, and mesmerizing river views.
- Morning delights with provided breakfast trays.
- Pricing starts at R700 per room per night during the off-peak season.
Contact: 082 567 0972 | Kei Mouth Guest Lodge
2. Self-Catering Options:
The village of Kei Mouth presents a myriad of self-catering accommodations to suit all preferences:
- Choose from quaint cottages perfect for couples.
- For those seeking a beachfront experience, Neptune’s Cove stands out as a prime choice.
More Info: Kei Mouth Accommodations
3. Trennerys Hotel at Qolora River Mouth:
Step back in time and embrace the classic charm of Trennerys Hotel:
- An iconic family holiday destination, this hotel exudes old-school appeal.
- Guests can opt for cosy cottages or be one with nature at the campsite, set within a verdant subtropical garden.
- Enjoy a comprehensive package with dinner, bed, and breakfast starting from R1,150 per person per night during the low season. Those looking to camp can do so starting at R130 per person.
Contact: 047 498 0004 | Trennerys Hotel
Trip Planner Tips:
When exploring Kei Mouth, immerse yourself in the activities the region offers. From kayaking adventures to tranquil nature walks, there’s something for everyone. Plan ahead and make the most of your visit.
This article first appeared in the March 2022 issue of Getaway Magazine.
Words by Marion Whitehead
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