Coastal Areas
Kosi Bay Nature Reserve
The Kosi Bay Nature Reserve lies on the coast in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal and surrounds the unique and beautiful Kosi Bay lake system which is part of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site. This system consists of four lakes and a series of inter connecting channels which eventually drain via a sandy estuary into the Indian ocean.
It is home to a large variety of birds and animals including hippos and crocs. Humpback whales can be seen off the beaches on their northerly migration to calve in Mozambique and in December and January loggerhead and leatherback turtles come onto the beaches to lay their eggs in carefully prepared nests. This is the most pristine lake system on the South African Coast.
Kosi is one of the most fascinating and beautiful pristine lake systems on the African coastline, a get-away-from-it-all coastal paradise.
Activities revolve largely around water sports, walking trails and sport fishing activities including deep-sea, surf, estuary, fly and spear fishing.
Snorkeling is always popular and guided walks around the lake system can be arranged.
The condition of the last 7 kilometres of the Lake Nhlange entrance road varies according to season and weather so it is recommended that prospective visitors phone before setting off. As most of the roads in the area are sand tracks, a 4X4 is required to fully access all the areas of the park.
Accommodation
The camp at Kosi Bay is called Lake Nhlange Camp as it is situated on the western shore of that lake, the largest in the Kosi system. To access the Kosi mouth and the Indian Ocean beaches is a 45 minute drive requiring a 4X4 vehicle. The drive is spectacular with views across the fish kraal dotted lake to the sea as you crest the huge coastal dunes.
Lodge - 6 bed
- 3 bedrooms, two bathrooms, lounge/dining room and kitchen
- Large viewing deck with barbeque facilities
- Fully furnished (guests may bring their own beach towels)
- Self Catering
Lodge - 5 bed
- 2 bedrooms, two bathrooms with showers, lounge/dining room and kitchen
- Fully furnished (guests may bring their own beach towels)
- Self Catering
Lodge - 2 bed
- Open plan room with bathroom, kitchenette and lounge/dining area combined
- Fully furnished (guests may bring their own beach towels)
- Self Catering
Facilities
- Guided wilderness trail, boating fishing, snorkeling
- No shop
- Cool drinks, charcoal, bait and ice are available from the camp office
Extra Information
- Special Precautions:
- Kosi Bay is in a malaria area and special precautions are necessary
- A 4 x 4 is recommended to be able to reach Kosi Mouth
- Due to the presence of crocodiles and hippos swimming is prohibited in the Lake system
- The Kosi lakes are natural systems which contain large populations of hippos and crocodiles Fishermen need to be aware of these animals as they move around the system in their boats
- The nearest town, which has a full range of services, is Kwangwanase which is 13 kms away
- Pets are not permitted into the reserve
- Firewood is not sold in the reserve, but can be purchased outside from the local communities
- No electricity generators are permitted
Gate Times
| Gate Times | Summer (Oct-Mar) |
Winter (Apr-Sep ) |
| Gates Open | 06:00 | 06:00 |
| Gates Close | 18:00 | 18:00 |
Office Hours
The office is open from 07h00 to 16h00
Check in / out
Check Out Time: 10h00
Check In Time: 14h00
