Hole in the Wall
Eastern Cape
Hole in the Wall is a remarkable natural arch formation located at the mouth of the Mpako River along South Africa's Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape. This tidal island features a large hole pierced through sandstone and shale cliffs by relentless ocean waves, creating an archway wide enough for sailboats to pass beneath. Accessible on foot during low tide, the formation is closely tied to the local Xhosa community, who call it 'esiKhaleni', meaning 'Place of sound', inspired by the roaring waves that echo through the arch during storms. The site is steeped in local legend about a maiden and mythical water people who created the hole in the cliff to unite lovers forbidden to meet. Historically, the area witnessed notable shipwrecks, including the 1593 Santo Alberto and the 1991 Oceanos, adding maritime significance to its natural allure. Visitors can stay in the nearby village named after the formation, making it a popular destination for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural heritage along the Wild Coast.
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Tip: The best time to visit Hole in the Wall is during low tide when the natural arch is accessible by foot. Visitors are advised to check tide schedules to safely explore the rock formation. Accommodation is available in the nearby village, and booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The site is outdoors and weather-dependent, so visiting during calm, clear days enhances the experience. No specific ticketing is required as it is a natural feature, but local guides can enrich the visit with cultural stories and history.
Interesting facts
- •The natural arch is large enough for a sailboat to pass through safely beneath it.
- •Local Xhosa legend tells of a maiden and water people who created the hole by ramming the cliff with an enormous fish's head.
- •The name 'esiKhaleni' means 'Place of sound', inspired by the roaring waves through the arch during storms.
- •The 1593 shipwreck of Santo Alberto near the site resulted in significant loss of life but many survivors walked to safety in Mozambique.
- •The luxury liner Oceanos sank near Hole in the Wall in 1991, with all 571 passengers and crew rescued, mostly by helicopter.
History
Hole in the Wall has long been a significant landmark for the local Xhosa people, who regard it as 'esiKhaleni' or 'Place of sound' due to the roaring waves during storms.
The arch was naturally formed by sea erosion through sandstone and shale cliffs.
Historically, the site is known for two major shipwrecks: the Portuguese ship Santo Alberto in 1593, where many lives were lost during the grounding, and the luxury liner Oceanos in 1991, which sank offshore but with all passengers and crew successfully rescued.
These events contribute to the area's maritime heritage and lore.
Place Guide
Natural Archway
The central feature of Hole in the Wall, this large hole in the sandstone and shale cliff was formed by wave erosion and is wide enough for small boats to pass beneath. It creates a dramatic visual and auditory experience, especially during storms when waves roar through the arch.
