Boat trips
On the Kosi Lakes
Let’s face it… exploring by boat is awesome and there is no better way to explore the magnificent interconnected lake system of Kosi Bay than on our expertly guided day trip. Features include interesting aquatic wildlife, a rich diversity of birds, local Tsonga culture and scenery so pristine and unique that it forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is so much to see and soak in that you may well wish the trip was longer.
The Kosi Lake ecosystem is unlike anything in the world and consists of multiple lakes connected by narrow channels which gradually transition from freshwater to estuary to seawater as they approach the ocean at the picturesque Kosi Mouth.
Highlights of the full-day outing include spotting aquatic life in the crystal-clear warm water, hippos, crocodiles, flamingos and a host of other aquatic species. You may also get the chance to enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of Third Lake and then walk over the dune to the beach at Bhanga Nek. You will also have the opportunity to get a close look at the iconic Kosi fish traps and learn about this ancient and fascinating Tsonga tradition.
Interesting facts about the Kosi lake system:
- The Kosi lake system is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- It is regarded as the best-preserved large estuary system on South Africa’s Indian Ocean coastline.
- Kosi Bay is the original and natural home of the Tsonga people and their fish traps.
- The area is one of very few places on earth to have five different species of mangroves.
- The lakes are home to about 800 hippos and 1000 Nile crocodiles.
- The four independent lakes are: Makhawulani, Mpungwini, Kunhlange and Amanzamnyama, linked by channels which drain via the sandy estuary into the Indian Ocean.
KOSI FOREST LODGE
South Africa's last unexplored wetland wilderness
