Kosi Forest Lodge - Activities

Guided Canoe Trips

The best way to explore Kosi Bay Nature Reserve – an unspoiled wilderness with a unique ecosystem and a variety of wildlife – is by canoe. Discover the incredible beauty of this water wonderland as you paddle through the lakes, channels and Raffia Forest. Birdwatching is exceptional in the reserve and the lake is home to Pel’s Fishing Owl and the Palm Nut Vulture, the only fruit-eating vulture in the world. The lodge also offers guided walking trails through the reserve.

Snorkeling

The mouth of the Kosi Lakes is regarded as one of the best snorkeling sites anywhere in the world. The rock pools along this protected stretch of coastline are a virtual aquarium of brilliant sub-tropical fish. Enjoy swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and soak up the sun along this beautiful stretch of beach.

Turtle Tracking

Witness the culmination of an incredible journey as Giant Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles lay their eggs in carefully prepared nests on the Maputuland coast. The turtles swim the length of the African continent and return to the beach at which they hatched to lay their eggs. Turtle tracking is offered in the evenings from mid-November to mid-February. Every precaution is taken to ensure these magnificent creatures are not disturbed during the laying process.

Fishing

The Maputuland coastline is one of South Africa’s most popular fishing destinations. Fishing varies from lake fishing, to surf fishing and deep-sea charters in Mozambique are also available. Fly-fishing along the coast and in the lakes can be very worthwhile.

Boat Cruises

A boat cruise along the lakes is the perfect way to explore the unspoiled waterways of the Kosi lake system. The series of channels, lakes and pools stretches over 18km and a boat cruise allows you to discover the amazing birds, plants and wildlife. A full day boat trip with picnic lunch, a swim in the sea and guided walks through the reserve will be a highlight of your stay at Kosi Forest Lodge.

Tembe Elephant Park

Tembe Elephant Park is a 40-minute drive from Kosi Forest Lodge. The park was established to preserve the gentle Maputuland elephant population, which suffered greatly at the hands of poachers. Game viewing in this 30,000ha wilderness is particularly good and there is brilliant elephant viewing from the game hides. Visits to Tembe Elephant Park are by prior arrangement.

Thonga Cultural Experience

Discover the spirit of Africa with thumping drums, rhythmic dancing and singing by the locals. For the more adventurous, visit a traditional healer (sangoma) or tickle those tastebuds with a sip of iLala Palm wine – a potent brew made from the sap of this indigenous palm.