4 Day 4×4 Kosi Lodge Adventure

ACCOMMODATION

It is situated in the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve in the Isimangaliso Wetland Park an internationally recognized World Heritage Site. Kosi is a 16 Bed wilderness Lodge offering guests unique opportunity of exploring a pristine wetland environment in guided canoes and vehicles. The accommodation is thatched on raised wooden decks hidden in the indigenous sand forest. Each room has mosquito nets and beautiful open air bathrooms enclosed by reeds with a bath and shower sunk into the sand.

Kosi has a wonderful variety of activities to enjoy. Opportunities to explore the unique environment of the Kosi Reserve:
– Guided canoeing on Kosi Lakes.
– Boat cruises and beach visit.
– Bird watching.
– Day trip to Kosi Bay mouth, including snorkeling.
– Guided walks in the Raffia Forests.
– Ilala Palm wine tasting.
– Day trips to Tembe Elephant Park (By prior arrangements).
– Fishing (not guided activity and guests must bring own equipment and permit).
– Turtle tracking walks (only during 15 Nov – 15 Jan).

In the far North Eastern corner of KwaZulu-Natal lies one of natures last frontiers – Kosi Bay part of the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park – the first natural World Heritage Site in South Africa to be accorded this distinction. Unique in its people, resources, ecology, culture Kosi Bay epitomises the incredible splendour of untouched Africa at its most pristine.

Kosi Bay often described as the last outpost of untouched African paradise, pristine beauty as God had originally created. Age old traditions passed down by generations of tribal existence still continue to this day in untainted originality. Ancient fishing kraals erected and tendered by the resourceful Tonga people provide sustainable catches that do not deplete the fish population. Kosi Bay was described by one of the first scientists to explore this region as “A wonderful aquarium and the most gorgeous aviary”. Kosi Bay’s pristine wealth of beauty and natural resources has to be seen with the physical eye to be fully appreciated.

Snorkeling in the channel at the mouth of the estuary, with its kaleidoscope of tropical fish is a wonderful way of getting through another day in paradise. Over 200 species of tropical fish have been identified here. Surf angling from unspoiled beaches, boat fishing on the lakes, or silent rhythmic fly-fishing from the rocks and banks. Lake Makhawulani’s tidal ebb and flow brings fish into the estuary on every high tide. Kosi Bay is a system of 4 lakes ranging from freshwater to saline that feed into the ocean Forest of raffia palm, Raphia australis. Kosi Bay is the only location in South Africa where this species occurs naturally. Its leaves, up to 18m long, are the largest in the plant kingdom.

Health
Please inform us of any pre‐existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disability that you may have.

Climate
The African sun is very strong. Please use a factor 30 sunscreen and wear a hat. You should drink at least 3 litres of water per day to avoid dehydration. It can also get very cold during winter months on this route. Please see Pre Departure Booklet for detailed information.

Currency and Banking
South African Rand is the best currency to use on this route. Please see Pre Departure Booklet for detailed information on each country. Travellers Cheques can take a long time to change into cash and often incur unreasonable charges. Credit Cards cannot always be processed – especially in remote areas.

DESTINATION

Kosi Bay Lodge is perfectly situated for guests who want to base themselves in the heart of this pristine area and further explore the region. Just a few hundred meters from the water’s edge of Lake Nhlange (the 3rd and largest Lake), Kosi Bay Lodge offers everything an African Bush Lodge should and more.
Sip sundowners in Nhlange Pub with amazing view and enjoy cuisine with a distinctive local flavor in the cosy atmosphere of the Umdoni (water berry tree) restaurant & bar overlooking the pool and the sun deck. Two, four and six bedded rustic lodges are comfortably appointed. Structures consist of thatched roofs, treated poles, wooden floors on stilts and reed walls – typically Tonga/Zulu style. The accommodation is rustic more than plush but the setting and range of activities make a stay well worthwhile.

All chalets have fully equipped kitchens with private braai with access to boma areas. Accent is on comfort, informal service and attention. Guests are encouraged to explore this unique environment by friendly staff who are on hand to assist with information & arranging outings. For the adventurous there are numerous activities and excursions that fully utilise the many resources available.