Transkei (iRiphabliki yeTranskei)

Transkei, or iRiphabliki yeTranskei, used to be a 'state' in the southeast of South Africa from 1976 to 1994. Transkei, along with Ciskei, another Bantustan, was only recognized by South Africa.

Most people visit the region of former Transkei for its magnificent Wild Coast and the Mkambati Nature Reserve.

There are several interesting hiking trails through the area, of which the five day long Coffee Bay trail is probably the most interesting one. It runs from Port Saint Johns along the coast to Coffee Bay. There are several huts along the route. Along the trail you will have to cross several wide river and it is very important you know the tides. Beware of sharks.

There are also many interesting towns in the region, including Butterworth, Engcobo, Mount Frere, Port Saint Johns and Mthatha, which was the capital of Transkei and known as Umtata until 2004.