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Kosi Bay

Kosi Bay, at the far northern tip of iSimangaliso Wetland Park and bordering Mozambique, is one of the most breathtakingly unique ecosystems in southern Africa. Often called the “aquarium of Africa,” this extraordinary system of four interconnected lakes, estuaries, and channels creates a mosaic of habitats rich in aquatic life. Crystal-clear waters reveal schools of brightly coloured tropical fish, rays, and corals, offering visitors a chance to step into a natural underwater world. Canoeing through these serene waterways leads explorers past lush raffia palm forests, swamp habitats alive with bird calls, and tranquil mangroves that serve as nurseries for countless marine species. Snorkelling in the shallow estuaries feels almost dreamlike, with hundreds of species of fish swirling in vibrant schools just below the surface.


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Ancient Traditions of the Thonga People – Living Heritage by the Water

For more than seven centuries, the Thonga people of Kosi Bay have lived in harmony with this delicate ecosystem, practising one of Africa’s oldest forms of sustainable fishing. Their ingenious fish traps, known locally as utshwayelo, are carefully constructed from reeds and passed down through generations. These traps allow fish to be caught without damaging breeding populations, ensuring abundance for future seasons. Today, visitors to Kosi Bay can witness this remarkable tradition first-hand, a rare opportunity to see how culture, history, and nature continue to coexist seamlessly.

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Kosi Bay is one of the world’s most important turtle nesting sites, with loggerhead and leatherback turtles returning each summer to lay their eggs on the soft, sandy beaches. Guided night walks provide unforgettable encounters with these ancient mariners as they lumber ashore to continue their life cycle. Birders are equally rewarded here; the palm-nut vulture can often be spotted circling overhead. Over 250 bird species thrive in this diverse ecosystem, making it a haven for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike. Hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling variety of fish also call these waters home, further highlighting the richness of this jewel.


The Diverse Beauty: Kosi Bay

Kosi Bay is not just a natural wonder, but also a place of deep cultural and geographical significance. Sitting right at the border with Mozambique, it forms part of the greater Ponta do Ouro–Kosi Bay Transfrontier Conservation Area, linking South Africa’s iSimangaliso Wetland Park with Mozambique’s marine reserves. This makes it a gateway to a broader conservation corridor where wildlife roams freely across boundaries. For visitors, Kosi Bay offers a mix of relaxation and adventure: snorkelling its famous “natural aquarium,” canoeing through the lakes, hiking along its forested shores, or simply soaking in the tranquillity of a timeless landscape where human traditions and biodiversity exist in harmony.

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iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a huge protected area along the coast of South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal Province. The park's centrepiece is the vast Lake St. Lucia, home to large numbers of hippos, crocodiles, pelicans and flamingos.


Kosi Bay

Activities : Kosi Bay

Kosi Bay, at the far northern tip of iSimangaliso Wetland Park and bordering Mozambique, is one of the most breathtakingly unique ecosystems in southern Africa. Often called the “aquarium of Africa,” this extraordinary system of four interconnected lakes, estuaries, and channels creates a mosaic of habitats rich in aquatic life. Crystal-clear waters reveal schools of brightly coloured tropical fish, rays, and corals, offering visitors a chance to step into a natural underwater world. Canoeing through these serene waterways leads explorers past lush raffia palm forests, swamp habitats alive with bird calls, and tranquil mangroves that serve as nurseries for countless marine species. Snorkelling in the shallow estuaries feels almost dreamlike, with hundreds of species of fish swirling in vibrant schools just below the surface.




Unforgettable Experiences

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