Search Results

Kosi Bay turtle tour starts at Banga Neck Beach. This tour is unique as the community guides do everything they can to protect and sustain turtle growth. Each year from November to January female turtles return to the same beach where they were born. The most recent science shows that Leatherbacks return after 15 years while Loggerheads take up to 36 years before laying. At the base of the dunes, they dig deep nests that they fill with scores of eggs. Turtles Endangered Leatherback Turtles Another Tourist attraction of Kosi Bay! Leatherback sea turtles are listed as endangered. It is estimated that the global population has declined by 40% over the past 3 generations. They are the largest sea turtle species Can grow up to 650kg. Fastest moving reptile 35km/h. Deepest diving turtle, reaching up to 1.5km. Can live up to 100 years. Only turtle without a hard carapace, leatherback turtles shell is leather like and not hard like other turtles. They can also not withdraw their heads. These turtles consume large numbers of jellyfish, which helps to keep the population of these marine organisms in check. Sunlight shines through the skull onto its brain, helping it to navigate and know when to migrate. The Giant Leatherback returns to the beach where they were born to lay eggs. Research has shown that the eggs are often laid within meters of where they emerged as a hatchling year previously. Female turtles’ nest at high tide on moonless nights and lay 6 - 9 clutches of eggs. Each clutch contains approximately 100 - 120 eggs. Turtle Tour in Kosi Bay The turtle tour promises an awesome opportunity to witness these rare and endangered creatures coming ashore to lay eggs. Once in a lifetime experience that will never be forgotten, rated as one of the top wildlife experiences The Turtle tour is unique as the community guides do everything they can to protect and sustain the turtle growth. Each year from November to January female turtles returns to the same beach where they were born. The most recent science shows that Leatherbacks return after 15 years while Loggerheads take up to 36 years before laying. At the base of the dunes, they dig deep nests that they fill with scores of eggs. Loggerhead & Leatherback Turtle Hatchlings From January through to April the tiny, almost invisible trails of baby turtles scatter from holes below the dunes. Sadly, not all of them reach the sea. Turtles are incredibly sensitive to light. Hatchlings find their way to the sea by orienting themselves to its reflective glimmer. Any artificial light at a sea turtle nesting site dramatically lowers their chances of success. That's why no torches are allowed during turtle tours! Although leatherback and loggerhead turtles usually lay around 100 eggs in a nest, and dig on average five nests in a season, it’s estimated that scarcely one in a thousand hatchlings make it to maturity, shocking! From the moment a sea turtle egg hits the damp sand of a nest, it’s under threat. Once the female turtle has dragged herself laboriously back to the ocean, the eggs are left entirely unprotected. Dogs and jackals, ants and ghost crabs, snakes, gulls, rats, cats and mongooses all adore a tasty turtle egg. Then, once the turtle hatches, it has to push its way up through the sand and hope for a clear passage to the sea. This, however, is highly unlikely. While adult leatherbacks and loggerheads weigh hundreds of pounds and are virtually immune to natural predators, their hatchlings are just a couple of inches long and weigh less than two ounces. When the sun sets, legions of stalk-eyed ghost crabs scuttle up and down the beach, ready to grab turtle hatchlings as they try to reach the sea. Thousands of stalk-eyed ghost crabs patrol the dunes, waiting to drag the tiny turtles away. To humans, stalk-eyed ghost crabs seem harmless, but it’s estimated that they make off with more than 10 per cent of newly hatched turtles. If a hatchling doesn’t reach water before daylight, it will die of dehydration or be scooped up by gulls and raptors. Even if a baby turtle successfully reaches the ocean, there’s no respite. Beyond the beach, endless dangers await: marlin, barracuda, tiger sharks – predators too numerous to name. Then there are the human perils of plastic, pollution, poaching, fishing lines, nets and boats. By the time a hatchling reaches the ocean it has one in a thousand chance of reaching adulthood. What a privilege to be able to witness this phenomenal fight for survival. The Leatherback turtles of iSimangaliso are the most southern breeding population in the world, and with fewer than 100 laying females coming ashore each year, they are rarer than black rhino. Turtle Tour - Book Now

Are you tired after a long difficult year? Want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Do you feel like an adventurous holiday? Come and explore Kosi Bay! Attractions Activities Beaches Lakes Turtles Fishing Raffia Palms Birder's Paradise

Kosi Bay turtle tour starts at Banga Neck Beach. This tour is unique as the community guides do everything they can to protect and sustain turtle growth. Each year from November to January female turtles return to the same beach where they were born. The most recent science shows that Leatherbacks return after 15 years while Loggerheads take up to 36 years before laying. At the base of the dunes, they dig deep nests that they fill with scores of eggs. Birders Paradise Birders Paradise The Kosi Bay nature reserve forms part of Isimangaliso Wetland Park and offers bird lovers a paradise. Among crystal blue water, marshland, Raffia, wild date Palms, coastal dune forests, grasslands, wetlands, Mangrove forests and Sycamore fig forests provides habitat for approximately 250 species of birds. The following species can be found: Rosy-throated Longclaw Swamp Night Jar Palm Nut Vulture Pels Fishing Owl African Finfoot and African Pygmy Goose African Fish Eagle Flamingos Goliath and white backed Heron Giant, Pied, and Purple Kingfisher Narina Trogon Blue manted Crested Fly Catcher Purple banded Sunbird Just to name a few. It is advisable to book for a guided tour to spot birdlife in the area. The Kosi Bay area has myriads of criss cross sandy tracks to local settlements which makes it difficult to do a self-guided tour. Book Now

Adventure awaits you! Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life! Kosi Bay is a nature lovers' paradise! This website will give you holiday accommodation options of the beautiful lodges in the Kosi Bay area that will suit every budget. As well as a wide variety of activities and excursions. Full Board Self catering With this option meals are included in the price. Escape to Kosi is your personal guide and trip organizer who can reveal the hidden gems in the area that you'd otherwise miss to ensure an unforgettable holiday. Please note that you will not pay more by either booking Holiday Accommodation or any of the Activities and Excursions from Escape to Kosi. I earn a small commission from the lodge owners and tour operators for marketing their lodges and activities on my website. Please book your holiday accommodation, activity or excursions via the Booking page or contact me directly at 0780523142 Full-Board The following Lodges have Full Board available: Kosi Forest Lodge Thonga Beach Lodge Big Skies Camp Chinderera Eco Lodge Royal Thonga Lodge Kosi Forest Lodge Kosi Forest Lodge Kosi Bay - Northern KwaZulu-Natal Deep in the forest overlooking Lake Shengeza lies Kosi Forest Lodge, an enchanting wilderness retreat. Kosi Forest Lodge is situated within the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first heritage site. The Lodge is eco-conscious, using nature as the guide and offering guests the unique opportunity to explore the Wetland environment in guided canoes and vehicles. Flame lamps will guide you along a soft sandy path to cozy forest rooms where you can encounter a unique glamping experience. The forest rooms are nestled under milkwood trees, with thoughtful attention to blending into the pristine indigenous sand forest environment. All rooms have both romantic outdoor bathroom Bomas as well as en-suite indoor showers. Bath under open African skies by soft flickering lighting from paraffin lamps. This lodge is also an idyllic honeymoon destination offering the bridal couple a romantic haven of calm after a busy wedding. Laze at the pool that overlooks Lake Shengeza with a cool drink in hand while watching the resident pod of hippos down below in the lake. The tucked away forest Boma plays host to extra special dining experiences. Meals are served around the wooden deck Boma, where a crackling fire is lit in the evening. Buffet breakfasts and luncheons are served in the covered dining area, where you’ll also find a 24/7 tea and coffee station with delicious homemade biscuits. Kosi Forest Lodge Rates 2024 Book Now Thonga Beach Lodge - Maputaland Coast Kosi Bay - Northern KwaZulu-Natal Escape to a place of miracle and wonder! Thonga Beach Lodge is uniquely set on the sparkling shores of the Maputaland Coast. Part of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is situated deep in this wilderness of white beaches, blazing corals and freshwater lakes. Thonga's 12 eco-sensitive rooms are positioned to create minimal environmental impact and afford maximum privacy. You’ve got a choice of ocean or forest views with the deluxe ocean view rooms sporting private plunge pools. • Dining Outdoor & indoor dining area • Bar Fully stocked bar where delicious cocktails and speciality coffees are served. • Beach deck Situated just above the dunes, where you can enjoy ice-cold drinks on wooden loungers overlooking the ocean. • Wi-Fi Lounge Comfortable lounge area with a selection of books and board games to keep you entertained. • Spa Two indoor treatment rooms and a private outdoor treatment area in the forest, which caters for couples’ treatments. Activities Guests are offered an authentic array of exciting experiences with something for every adventurer, nature lover and max-relaxer. Turtle tracking, bird watching, snorkelling, fishing, Tsonga cultural tours, guided forest walks, sundowners on Lake Sibaya and Kayaking on Lake Sibaya. Scuba diving - at Thonga Beach is phenomenal with reefs located only a short distance from the Lodge. Shoals of game fish, sharks and schools of bottlenose dolphins are often encountered. All enthusiasts are welcome from the beginner to the veteran. Scuba training is also available at our PADI Dive Centre. Open ocean experience – An exciting launch through the surf, takes you beyond the breakers where you can experience the beauty of the ocean. Enjoy the scenery of the beautiful coastline where dolphins and whale sharks swim freely. South Africa’s most pristine wilderness beach Lodge awaits you! Thonga Beach Lodge Rates 2024 Book Now Thonga beach lodge Gugulesizwe Camp Big SkiesCamp - Maputaland Kosi Bay - Northern KwaZulu-Natal Big Skies Camps are situated just 4 km from the exquisite snorkelling site of Lala Nek Beach. Boasting with breathtaking view of the coastal forest and ocean on the border of Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Here Big Skies operate three community and nature- focused Lodges, each with a unique experience. The open airy location lends itself today dreaming, while kids can burn of their excess energy in safety. Providing everything for the ideal family and friend holiday. The accommodation is luxurious with a unique blend of comfort and adventure. When the ocean calls a short 4x4 drive brings guests to endless beaches, rock pools and all the wildlife spotting possibilities that Maputaland offers. Big Skies - ️Ubunye Camp This camp is designed to be comfortable and capture the essence of camping. The canvas walls let the peaceful outdoor sounds seep in, a pergola and outdoor deck create a serene morning spot. This is Maputaland bliss. ️Accommodation 4 x Comfort rooms with spacious bedrooms that can be set up with 2x twin beds or 1 king size bed En-suite with an indoor and outdoor shower Ceiling and standing fan Mosquito nets Linen, bath and beach towels provided Sweeping views of the rolling green hills and the gentle sound of crashing waves define our intimate communal space at Ubunye. Bar nook offers a wide range of interesting wines and cocktails Open plan living kitchen creates a warm and social experience An airy lounge and dining space to enjoy warm coastal days and nights. Small plunge swimming pool and loungers Detached lounge for watching the sunset through the Ubombo mountain range "Take and leave" bookshelf Board game library Spa and wellness center treatments are available at an extra cost. Rates From R3 410 per person per night Big Skies - Gugs Camp ️Accommodation 7x medium rooms with en-suite bedrooms with 2 x ¾ beds. 1x Family room that has 2 bedrooms with a shared bathroom. Ceiling and standing fan Linen, bath and beach towels provided The Big Skies Gugs communal space: Reclaimed Bar (built from the wood of the old camp and reclaimed scrap metal) Open air lounge area "Take and leave" bookshelf Forest boma area Wellness deck Shared swimming pool with Loungers Rates from R2 500 per person per night (children 2 – 14years R1 400 pppn) ️Offering at Ubunye and Gugs includes 3 vegetarian meals a day and selected drinks. Sustainably, locally caught fish have been introduced into some of our meals. ️The following activities are included at Ubunye and Gugs: Scorpion walk-in camp. Short walk around camp learning about indigenous fruits, trees and plants. a community excursion which includes a shisha nyama, a tour of an injemane (palm wine) “bar” and a fireside oral history told by a village elder taking place at the community centre we have built called “Hlabezimhlophe”; a boat cruise which includes a guided explanation of the lake system, a fish braai and a snorkel in the mangroves. Beach day which includes setup, packed picnic, and snorkel. and finally, sundowners up at the old fire watchtower looking over the KwaMpukane community and into the Lebombo mountain range. ️The following is excluded: Turtle activities (seasonal) Spa treatments Selected drinks Gratuities Transfers between Manguzi and either Ubunye or Gugs, for guests who do not have their own 4x4 vehicles to access the camps directly. Big Skies - Research Camp Originally designed as a researcher’s retreat for delving into Maputaland's rich ecological and cultural tapestry, Research now welcomes guests seeking an exclusive, self-catered escape. Perfect to book out for groups of up to 8 guests: 4x 2 sleeper tented cabins with ¾ beds (sleeping 8) En-suite bathrooms Fully equipped kitchen Cleaning included From: R12 000 per day for the entire camp Access requires a 4x4 vehicle, for other vehicles, secure parking is available in Manguzi with scheduled transfers to the camp provided by our community partner at an additional cost. There is an airstrip 20 minutes from the camp. Gugulesizwe Camp & Little Gugs Rates 2024 Book Now Royal Thonga Safari Lodge Kosi Bay - Northern KwaZulu-Natal Situated on a hillside with magnificent views overlooking the kwa-Mazambane reserve and 3rd lake can be seen from some of the rooms. Thembe Eco Lodge offers self-catering accommodation and camping. There are eight self-catering units, six of the units can sleep four people (a double bed and a bunker bed) Two of the units can sleep two people (double beds) Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower, and patio with braai facility where guests can sit and watch the most beautiful African sunrises and sunsets. The campsites are located under huge Marula trees, each with its own braai, table, light, and PowerPoint. There’s a fenced pool and a play park for children, this is where kids can burn off their excess energy in safety. The entire Lodge has a well-kept lawn and a range of plants which all compliment the natural feel of the surrounding nature, hence the “Eco” in the name. The Lodge is wheelchair and pet friendly, however, guests are reminded that no animals are allowed on the Beaches as it is part of Isimangaliso Wetland Park and is a protected area. *Pet sitting facilities are available. Thembe Eco Lodge is ideal for fishermen, families, groups, and businessmen and for anyone who wants to relax and refocus. Royal Thonga Safari Lodge Rates 2024 Book Now Chinderera eco lodge Royal thonga Chinderera Eco Lodge Kosi Bay - Northern KwaZulu-Natal This private lodge specializes in catering exclusively for between two to six guests. Perfect for a romantic getaway! It is nestled peacefully in the dappled shade of majestic indigenous trees in the Kosi Bay sand forest. Chinderera Ecolodge offers you a touch of rustic Africa blended into the beautiful coastal forest. The chalets are secluded amongst the trees, ensuring privacy, peace and tranquillity. The rustic luxury of the spacious interiors, large surrounding open windows, and handcrafted furniture, with en-suite, open-air bathrooms, all combine to delight and invite guests to immerse themselves in the nature that surrounds them. The chalets are named after great African rivers. Lualaba and Rufiji each offer a queen-size bed. Chalet Rufiji has a family extension accommodating 2 single beds. Each unit has an outside balcony. You have an option of bed and breakfast or full board. You can relax in the coffee lounge while enjoying a range of African blend coffees. It will be your choice if you want to use the uncapped Wi-Fi, where you have full reception throughout the entire lodge and rooms. At the restaurant, you can enjoy a unique Afro-fusion menu. The dishes hail from around the continent of Africa. Sip on a glass of wine while relaxing around a lovely open fire while listening to soothing African music. Kosi Bay offers visitors a wide range of activities. Guests are encouraged to book in for at least 3 nights to allow 2 full days to explore the area and appreciate the diversity. Some of the activities have been custom designed in collaboration with the local Tsonga people and are available only to Chinderera guests. Leave behind the daily hustle and bustle of life, and come and enjoy the relaxing pace of the African bush at Chinderera Eco Lodge... Chinderera Eco Lodge Rates 2024 Book Now Book Now! Choose an option Submit We will get back to you as soon as possible!

Kosi Bay lies on the coast in the Northern corner of Kwazulu Natal and forms part of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site. Humpback Whales are seasonal offshore visitors, as are Leatherback and Loggerhead sea turtles that come ashore to nest on the beaches from November to January. ​ Breath-taking Beaches The Breath-taking Beaches of Kosi Bay Coastal forests back onto sand dunes some of the highest forested dunes in the world which drop into the Indian Ocean forming miles upon miles of pristine beaches. Sub-tropical, clear water and brightly coloured coral reefs. Seawater temperatures peak in the range of 26 – 28 degrees Celsius in February and 21 – 23 degrees Celsius during winter. Dolphin and whale watchers will be delighted by frequent sightings, particularly during winter from June until November when Humpback and South Right Whales migrate north to calve in the warmer Mozambique waters. From November to January, you can witness a true bucket list moment as the Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Directions to the Beaches There is a maze of sandy tracks that winds through the forest providing access to the stunning beaches. This adds to your Kosi adventure holiday! There are no signs for directions to the different beaches, therefore, it is very easy to get lost. It is advisable to book a guide, but if you intend to do a self-guided trip then download the maps with directions before going on your trip as there might be no signal. Tours - Book Now Kosi Bay Mouth - Kosi Bay The pristine beach, where the blue waters of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage site flow into the Indian ocean at the mouth of the Kosi Bay estuary system near the Mozambique border. Why should Kosi Bay Mouth be on your bucket list? Kosi Bay Mouth is where the lakes empty out into the ocean, creating a particularly unique ecosystem. Here you find clear, warm waters and an abundance of fish that gives the area its name - the aquarium reef. It is a shallow, rocky reef that lies within the estuary at the base of eNkovukeni forested dune and extends upstream for some 120m. The river mouth is a unique breeding ground for marine life and is one of the best places for snorkeling. Its relatively shallow waters make it incredibly easy to see colorful fish like: * Moray eels * Honeycomb stingrays * Lion fish * Picasso trigger fish * yellowfin Surgeon fish * Queen Coris *Malabar * Rock cod * wrasses * Stone fish * Flutemouth * shoals of river snapper and spotted Grunter just to name a few!! When is snorkeling at its best? High tide sends a rush of warm, clear seawater. The clean seawater provides great visibility! Snorkeling is best and safest during this time, as the current flows upstream rather than out to sea. Snorkelers can jump in at the start of the reef and drift along above the rocks. Snorkeling aquarium reef is the perfect days activity for those wishing to experience the underwater world of Kosi Bay! Make sure to book for the guided snorkeling adventure. Perfect for first-timers and kids (from 5 years). For the more experienced snorkeler a good way to be introduced to aquarium reef. Black Rock Beach - Kosi Bay Protected from the wind, turquoise warm water and a beautiful snorkelling spot, especially during low tide. The prominent rock formation on the point gives Black Rock its name. The snorkelling in the bay is fantastic with many species of fish to be seen. If you are into lying on the beach and tanning, Black Rock is ideal, as it is protected from the wind! For fishermen, the bay offers excellent sea fly fishing and rock and surf angling opportunities. Walking up the dune gives you the most beautiful view of the ocean. We spotted dolphins and whales from this vantage point. To get to Black Rock, you need a 4×4 vehicle. Banga Neck - Kosi Bay Banga Neck Beach ⛱ Kosi Bay - Northern KwaZulu-Natal Banga Neck is in the middle of the most untouched stretches of the African coastline. Situated in North Eastern KwaZulu-Natal, 15km south of the Mozambique border. Banga Neck is on the Southern shore of the Kosi Bay Lake System. This Beach is now accessible by a normal car. A beautiful stretch of turquoise blue water perfect for swimming, snorkelling, lake and sea fishing. Guided, night turtle tours take place from Banga Neck. This is where you can watch the female Leatherbacks and Loggerhead turtles come out of the surf to lay eggs during November to January. Baby Turtles or hatchlings emerges at night and making for the safety of the sea during January to March. The Isimangaliso Wetland Park includes one of only a handful of marine World Heritage sites globally that protects the beach-nesting sites of sea turtles. There is a turtle research center based at Banga Neck. Ongoing research gets done into turtle behaviour and characteristics. The warm Indian ocean water of Isimangaliso shores are home to five of the world's seven turtle species. The green hawksbill, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles. But only the Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles breed in these waters and lay their eggs on these shores. Viewing these magnificent creatures will be once in a lifetime experience that will never be forgotten!