Amazing Things to Do in Kosi Bay | Best Tours & Adventures at Thobeka Lodge
Embark on one of the activities that are on offer and experience the beauty that Kosi Bay has on offer!
All the Kosi Bay Activities are an amazing experience. Here in Kosi Bay you can explore the world – a beautiful blend of nature, ocean, underwater life, birdlife, lakes, forest and villages. Absolutely recommendable! We love making memories with you……
NB: You will need a permit from Parks Board Office to enter the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. The entry permits are valid for Kosi Mouth, Black Rock and Isimangaliso Reserve Camp at the lakes.
KOSI MOUTH
Kosi Bay Mouth is a pristine paradise with clear waters, thick forests & swamps and most importantly, the sandy beaches. Moreover, its untouched natural beauty is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife ranging from mammals to birds and fish.
RAFFIA PALM TREE FOREST
Take a hike trough the sub-tropical Raffia Forest. Experience the vegetation type that is unique to this part of South Africa.
THONGA FISH KRAALS
The fish kraals have been in existence for hundreds of years and are a source of sustenance to the Tembe Tribal people. Age old traditions passed down by generations of tribal existence that still continues.
TEMBE ELEPHANT PARK
Tembe Elephant Park is real wild country. The park is situated within the sand-veld ecological zone and consists mainly of closed woodland and secondary thicket formation. The zone falls within a transition area between tropical and sub-tropical forms and therefore is home to a great diversity of vegetation as well as over 340 bird species, making it a delight for bird lovers
HORSE RIDING
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone they say! If you have never sat on a horse, with us at Kosi Bay Horse Trails you will have a great time trying it out for the first time. Our horses are calm and careful, we are safety conscious and know what we are doing.
We regret but currently we do not do any horse riding activities, however you are welcome to visit our horses in their paddock! Call us to make an appointment with them 072 446 1525
BIRD WATCHING
Kosi Bay offers bird lovers a paradise among the coastal and dune forests, grasslands and wetlands where you will see birdlife of every description. Kosi Bay is not a cohesive conservation area and one needs to visit the different birding areas on individual excursions.
Remember to take your binoculars, camera, bird book and comfy shoes, something to eat and drink. It is going to be an exciting experience!
3 LAKES BOAT CRUISE
Hop on a boat for a cruise around the 4 Lake system, see Hippo, flamingo, and the old crocs. A 3 hour lake cruise traveling over 3 lakes viewing the beauty of Kosi Bay, going past the Fish Kraals/Traps; Snorkeling in the one of the side channels; and for the bird lovers, you will find a variety of Kingfishers, Grey Heron, Rosy-throated Longclaw, African Pygmy-Goose, Palm-nut Vulture, African Fish Eagle, Pel’s Fishing Owl.
HIKING TRAILS
Hiking is fun and is a great travel experience, also an awesome way to immerse yourself in nature which is good for the mind and body. Our hiking trails promise to be an awesome experience!
TURTLE TOURS
An adventurous night excursion to look for nesting Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles. In November and December, you are likely to see them nesting and laying eggs. From January to March, you have a good chance of seeing hatchling turtles making their way to the sea in the moonlight.
The season for Turtle Tours are between November and March
WHALE WATCHING
Every winter pods of whales embark on their annual migration from Antarctica to the South East African coast to mate and calve, one of the lengthiest migrations in the world. The migration to the warmer climate ensures the safety of calves, from their natural predators the Orcas, as well as increases their survival rate in the warmer environmental conditions. They migrate to cold waters in high latitudes to feed and then move on to warmer waters to mate and give birth.
July, August, and September mean whale watching season! Come and experience these ethereal mammals in all their glory while you indulge mind and body on one of the best beaches on the African continent! Combine whale watching with one of Kosi mouth activities and have an experience of a lifetime! Or Visit St. Lucia or Ponta do Oura in Mozambique to do a sea excursion to experience these ethereal mammals in all their glory.
Take note that we book your adventures through Safari & Surf Wilderness Adventures, Kosi Thonga Safaris and Hleke Imvubu Boat cruises!
WE REGRET: No Quad Bikes, Jetski’s, Water skiing, Kite surfing, Wake Boarding, Barefoot Skiing, Fly boarding, Parasailing, boat tubing.
Quad Bikes are absolutely not allowed as they are off road vehicles (not licensed to be on a public road). All the roads in our area, leading to the lakes, the lodges and private dwellings are accessed by the public and are therefore considered a public road.
Jetski’s, Water skiing, Kite surfing, Wake Boarding, Barefoot Skiing, Fly boarding, Parasailing, boat tubing: Not allowed on the lakes or the estuary.
FAQs – Kosi Bay Activities
- What are the best activities to do in Kosi Bay?
Kosi Bay offers a variety of unforgettable activities, including guided turtle tours (seasonal), canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, boat cruises, birdwatching, fishing, hiking, cultural tours, visits to the traditional Thonga fish kraals, swimming in the crystal-clear lakes, and exploring the beautiful Kosi Bay Mouth. - Is Kosi Bay suitable for families?
Yes. Kosi Bay is an excellent destination for families. Children and adults can enjoy boat trips, nature walks, swimming, birdwatching, and wildlife experiences in a peaceful and safe environment. - When is the best time to visit Kosi Bay?
Kosi Bay is a year-round destination. Summer is ideal for water activities, while winter offers pleasant temperatures for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. Turtle nesting and hatching tours operate from approximately November to February. - Do I need a guide for Kosi Bay activities?
Some activities, such as turtle tours, cultural experiences, and boat cruises, are best enjoyed with experienced local guides. Self-guided activities like swimming and relaxing at the lakes are also popular. - Can I go snorkeling in Kosi Bay?
Yes. The clear waters around the estuary and nearby reefs provide excellent snorkeling opportunities where visitors may see colourful fish and marine life. - Are boat cruises available?
Yes. Guided boat cruises explore the interconnected lakes, estuary, mangrove forests, and scenic waterways while sharing the area’s history, wildlife, and ecology. - What wildlife can I see in Kosi Bay?
Visitors often see hippos, crocodiles, monkeys, bushbuck, numerous bird species, fish, and seasonal marine life including sea turtles and whales offshore during migration. - Is birdwatching good in Kosi Bay?
Absolutely. Kosi Bay is one of South Africa’s premier birdwatching destinations, with over 250 recorded bird species including kingfishers, fish eagles, palm-nut vultures, and flamingos during certain seasons. - Can I visit the traditional fish kraals?
Yes. The centuries-old Thonga fish kraals are one of Kosi Bay’s most famous attractions and demonstrate traditional fishing methods still used by local communities. - Are fishing trips available?
Yes. Guided fishing trips can be arranged, subject to permits and local conservation regulations. - Can I swim in Kosi Bay?
Yes. Several areas of the lakes are suitable for swimming, although visitors should always follow local safety advice regarding wildlife and water conditions. - Is kayaking available?
Yes. Kayaking and canoeing are popular ways to explore the peaceful lakes and waterways while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. - Are whale watching opportunities available?
Yes. During the annual migration, humpback whales can often be seen along the nearby coastline between June and November. - How long should I stay in Kosi Bay?
A stay of three to five nights is recommended to fully experience the area’s activities, beaches, wildlife, and cultural attractions. - Can activities be arranged through Thobeka Lodge?
Yes. Thobeka Lodge can assist guests with booking guided tours, boat cruises, turtle tours, fishing trips, birdwatching excursions, and other local experiences to help make the most of their Kosi Bay holiday.