5 Day Kosi Bay Adventure Trail - KwaZulu-Natal

Price On Request

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Explore the pristine wilderness of Kosi Bay at the northern tip of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This flexible 4 to 6 night slackpacking trail combines hiking, paddling, and boat trips across four interconnected lakes and an estuary opening into the warm Indian Ocean. Traverse cool dune forests, open savannah, deserted beaches, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Your luggage is transferred between lodges, while local guides enrich your journey with fascinating cultural and ecological insights. Customizable for time, fitness levels, and interests, this trail offers an immersive experience in one of South Africa’s most special regions.

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Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival and Beach Camp
Self-drive to Beach Camp (approx. 4 hours from Durban, 8 hours from Johannesburg). Settle into your en-suite chalet and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while preparing for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 – Lake Zilonde Circular Loop (Approx. 12.5 km / 4 hours)
Begin your hike through mangrove swamps and magical fern forests. Ascend a 65m high dune to enjoy panoramic views across to Mozambique. Trek over prehistoric coral dunes and walk along pristine beaches to reach Kosi Mouth, a palm-fringed sandy estuary mouth. Finish with snorkeling in the vibrant Kosi Bay Mouth, an important breeding ground for tropical fish. Return hike to Beach Camp for dinner and rest.

Day 3 – Kosi Estuary to Third Lake with 3 Lakes Boat Cruise
Hike down to Kosi Estuary, wading across to eKovukeni peninsula. Continue to the first lake’s shore, where you board a boat for the spectacular 3 Lakes Cruise through channels connecting the lakes, with opportunities to snorkel in the clear waters. Disembark on the western shore of the third lake and hike to Kosi Bay Lodge for the night.

Day 4 – Third Lake to Kosi Forest Lodge via Bhanga Nek
Hike down to the third lake boat launch, then take a boat transfer across the lake to Bhanga Nek. Explore Bhanga Nek beach before hiking along the third lake shoreline to cross the channel by a raffia pontoon between the third and fourth lakes (Amanzamyama). Continue hiking through sand forest to reach Kosi Forest Lodge for your overnight stay.

Day 5 – Kayaking on Siyadla River & Departure Transfer
After breakfast, take a guided canoe trip on the Siyadla River among majestic raffia palms, paddling into the fourth lake. Enjoy a late breakfast, then transfer by 4x4 vehicle back to Beach Camp, marking the conclusion of your adventure.

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Pricing Based on Package Choice & Group Size

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Includes

• 4, 5, or 6 nights’ accommodation in en-suite chalets

• Exclusive packages include 1 or 2 nights at Kosi Forest Lodge

• All meals from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure day

• Reserve permits and hiking trail fees

• Guiding fees for 3 guided hike days

• 3 Lakes boat tour through the lakes and channels

• Boat transfer from 4th lake

• Luggage and/or vehicle transfer from Beach Camp to Kosi Lodge

• Return transfers to Beach Camp

• Snorkeling opportunities in Kosi Mouth and lake channels

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Excludes

• Transport to and from Beach Camp

• Personal expenses, gratuities, and optional activities