Transkei – Mazeppa Bay and Manubi State Forest
About the Birding
Sitauted roughly 180Km to the north of East London, along a spectacular stretch of coastline, Mazeppa Bay and the Manubi State Forest are a true birdwatcher’s paradise. Roughly 300 species can be seen in the area including several key endemics as well as numerous threatened species! Ideally, it is recommended that visiting birders stay at Mazeppa Bay to explore the surrounding areas though it is possible to visit the area as a day trip from East London.
About the Birding Site
Until very recently, the vast Transkei has been the least explored region of the Eastern Cape province – extending from Kei Mouth to as far as Port Edward at the border of the KwaZulu-Natal province, and bound to the north by the Drakensburg Mountains. Many parts remain difficult to access, given that the region was considered as an unrecognised state for ‘separate development’ until as recently as 1994. Post-Apartheid, the Transkei was reclassified as part of the Eastern Cape though the region remains almost totally under-developed.
Other Related Information
Directions:
From East London – follow the N2 north towards Butterworth. At Butterworth, turn south along the Kentani Road in the direction of Wavecrest. Once you reach the village of Kentani, turn to the north to travel through Kabakazi. Mazeppa Bay is roughly 64Km from Butterworth.
Access and facilities:
Mazeppa Bay is highly regarded among fishermen, as one of the top spots along the entire Eastern Cape coast. Moreover, several hiking trails run through the town itself and into the Manubi Indigenous Forest including a 6Km hike to Kob Inn and a 17Km hike through the reserve.
Key species:
Spotted Ground Thrush, Mangrove Kingfisher, Chorister Robin-chat, Brown Scrub-robin
Contact details:
For more information, contact:
Mazeppa Bay Hotel
Tel: +27 (0)47 498 0033
Fax: +27 (0)47 498 0034
Cell: +27 (0)82 575 9656
Email: mazeppabayhotel@sainet.co.za