This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Mossel Bay.
Mossel Bay is a coastal town along the Southern Cape of South Africa. Its economy relies mostly on farming, fishing, and tourism. Travelers like to arrive during the area’s summer season, especially between mid-December and mid-January. Thanks to the dry, warm weather, tourists enjoy the beautiful beaches and hiking trails along the Indian Ocean coast.
Situated right between the popular destinations of Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, the city of Mossel Bay serves as a rest stop right along the N2 national highway. It is also located along the national railway network for easy access to and from the rest of the country.
Once you arrive in the town, you will have a handful of hostels to choose from. All Mossel Bay hostels tend to earn very high ratings from guests due to good location, cleanliness, friendly staff, spacious common kitchen, braai area, and included breakfast. You may also have the option to stay in a private room rather than a dormitory. The detailed decorations lend a welcoming, comfortable aura to the hostels. Finally, each hostel offers a special touch, which might be anything from a pool to a pool table.
While visiting, you might wish to learn more about this very spot where Europeans first made contact with the indigenous people of the region. Stop by the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex to see a replica of the ship which brought the first Europeans to Mossel Bay’s shores and learn about its culture and history.
Most tourists also will wish to spend plenty of time in the sun. Santos Beach provides a safe option for enjoying the warm, clear waters and golden, soft sands decorated with huts as well as little eateries.
For a less sedentary experience, visitors can put on their walking shoes, pack some H2O, and hike along the St. Blaize Trail along the coastline. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the dolphins, flowers, caves, and lighthouse along the breathtaking path. At the end of your hike, you will be ready to head back to your hostel right there in Mossel Bay and rest up for the next fun-filled day.
Written by local enthusiast for Mossel Bay hostels
Jakob Lombardi
