3 Days/4 Nights Kosi Lakes and Turtle Trails - KwaZulu-Natal

From R11 500 p/p sharing (2026)

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Discover the pristine beauty of the Kosi Bay region in the northern tip of iSimangaliso Wetland Park on this unique 4-night slackpacking adventure. Traverse four interconnected lakes and an estuary opening into the warm Indian Ocean, combining hiking, paddling, and boat transfers. Explore dune forests, open savannahs, deserted beaches, and enjoy world-class snorkeling. Your luggage is transferred between lodges, while local guides share fascinating cultural and natural heritage, making this flexible trail perfect for varying fitness levels and interests.

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Itinerary

Arrival Day
Self-drive to Beach Camp (approximately 5.5 hours from Durban or 9 hours from Johannesburg). Settle into your accommodation at Beach Camp Hippo Chalets and prepare for your adventure ahead.

Day 1 – Lake Zilonde Hike or Kalu Inlet Kayak & Hike (7–13 km)
Start your day with a hike through lush fern-forest swamps and over dunes on the Zilonde trail, with stunning views across to Mozambique. Snorkel in the Kosi mouth before hiking back to camp. Alternatively, choose a combined hiking and kayaking route: hike through coastal savannah and dune forest to the kayak launch, then paddle 5 km up the estuary into the protected Kalu Inlet. After kayaking, hike along the estuary and up the Kalu valley forest back to camp. Optional extension on the Kalu hike brings you to Kosi mouth for additional snorkeling. Evening at Beach Camp with dinner and rest.

Day 2 – Boat Cruise & Short Hike (6–9 km hiking, 2.5-hour boat trip)
Hike to a lookout point for panoramic views of the estuary and traditional fish kraals. Explore forest trails on the Kalu inlet peninsula before a shallow wade to eKuvekeni peninsula. Embark on the 3 Lakes Boat Cruise through channels connecting the lakes, offering excellent birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and snorkeling opportunities. Disembark on the western shore of the third lake and hike through a sand forest to Kosi Bay Lodge. Evening relaxation and dinner at the lodge.

Day 3 – Raffia Palms & Fourth Lake Adventure (10–17 km)
Hike along the western shore of the third lake through dense forest, spotting rare Palm-Nut vultures nesting in giant Raffia palms. Reach the pontoon crossing between the third and fourth lakes. From here, you can opt for a boat transfer or continue hiking along the lake shoreline to Bhanga Nek or Bhanga Nek beach, where you can enjoy some surf and sand before returning to Kosi Bay Lodge via boat. Overnight at Kosi Bay Lodge with dinner and stories of the day.

Departure Day
After breakfast, transfer back (30 minutes) to your vehicle(s) at Beach Camp, marking the end of your unforgettable Kosi Bay adventure.

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From R11 500 p/p sharing (2026) (based on 6–10 participants)

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Includes

• 4 Nights accommodation: 2 nights at Beach Camp Hippo Chalets, 2 nights at Kosi Bay Lodge

• All meals: 4 dinners, 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches

• 3 Guided hike days with snorkeling opportunities

• 3 Lakes boat excursion and boat collection at pontoon or Bhanga Nek

• Full slackpacking service including luggage transfers

• Return transfers to trailhead

• All permits, isimangaliso Foundation levies

Excludes

• Transport to and from Beach Camp

• Personal expenses, gratuities, and drinks

• Optional kayak hire (if applicable)