Cintsa (Chintsa) Accommodation and Activities
The pretty villages of Cintsa East and Cintsa West are situated 25 minutes north of East London on the Wild Coast Jikeleza Route, an area marked by sandy bays and peaceful estuaries. The two villages sit on opposite banks of the Chintsa Lagoon, and offer expansive views of the bay, estuary and 17km long beach.
Cintsa East is the larger of the two seaside villages. It is situated on the northern bank of the estuary and is a popular holiday spot with accommodation catering for both budget and executive travelers. For backpackers, Cintsa West is a popular Baz Bus stop.
Activities & Attractions: |
Wildlife & the Outdoors | Activities for the adventurous include 4x4 trails, abseiling, horse riding, mountain bike trails, quad biking and surfing. For the more laid-back visitor, a game drive followed by an educational visit to a cultural village and a sunset cruise on the river, might just be what's needed.
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Hiking and Beach Walks | The 5-day Strandloper Hiking Trail passes along the village's 17km long beach and past the wreck site of the Atalaia, which sunk in 1647 between Cintsa and Cefani. The Portuguese vessel broke up long ago and is no longer visible; however some cannon were retrieved from the wreck and can now be seen in the East London Museum.
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Golf | Golfers who remembered to bring their clubs will enjoy the challenge of the newly opened Chintsa River Golf Estate's magnificent course.
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Directions from East London:
Drive along the N2 towards Mthatha. About 5km past the Gonubie turn-off, take the Brakfontein turnoff. At the top of the bridge, turn right (crossing the bridge over the highway) and continue down the road for about 2km. Turn left at the "Schafli Road" and East Coast Resorts sign. You are now at the start of the Jikeleza Route.
Directions from Durban:
Drive along the N2 towards East London. About 41km past the Kei Bridge you will find the turnoff to The Jikeleza Route / Cintsa / East Coast Resorts on your left. It is about 15km from East London.
Magazine Articles:
Getaway Articles:
Pirates' secret - September 2007
Unspoilt beaches, lazy lagoons and thick coastal forests are some of the treasures of the coastal resorts north of East London. Marion Whitehead discovered a gem at Cintsa.
Newspaper Articles:
Daily Dispatch Articles:
Jikeleza Route Articles
Articles written by the Dispatch @venture Team following their visit to the Wild Coast Jikeleza Route.
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