Things to Do at
Kosi Mouth

Experience why Kosi Bay Mouth is world-renowned for snorkelling. Known affectionately as "The Aquarium", the estuary's rock pools and reef-protected shallows are home to an abundance of tropical fish.

Kosi Bay Mouth is one of the only places in the world where you can snorkel on a living reef inside an estuary, fondly known as "The Aquarium". Drift over colourful corals and spot an abundance of tropical fish in crystal-clear water. The rock pools in the ocean also offer a protected area to snorkel during low tide. Visibility depends on the weather and the tide.

Witness a miracle of nature that has remained unchanged for millennia. Every summer, giant Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles return to the very beaches where they were born to lay their eggs.

A guided tour to Bhanga Nek beach to watch female leatherback and loggerhead turtles coming out of the surf to lay their eggs. Approximately 60 days later, see the baby hatchlings emerging and making their brave dash to the ocean. Trips must be booked a day in advance and are weather and guide dependent.

Discover the 700-year-old sustainable fishing tradition of the local Thonga people — one of the most unique cultural experiences in South Africa.

The Thonga people, who have made this land their home for more than 1 000 years, are experts in fish traps and have been constructing these traditional woven traps and palisade fish kraals for over 700 years. A guided tour with a local fisherman who will explain the process — you may even be lucky enough to spear your own fish.

With over 450 recorded species, Kosi Bay is a genuine bucket-list destination for birders. The diversity of habitats — from raffia palm forests to mangroves, lakes and open ocean — makes it extraordinarily rich.

Keep an eye out for the Pel's Fishing Owl, African Finfoot, White-backed Night Heron, Narina Trogon, Flamingo and Purple Crested Taraco. The Kayak Safari is particularly good for bird sightings in the mangrove channels. Early morning walks along the estuary are also exceptional.

Kosi Mouth Beach is one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. Crystal clear water, shady trees and warm Indian Ocean make this a perfect day for the whole family.

Kids will enjoy playing in the shallow and safe water of the estuary, while adults can swim in the ocean or simply unwind. The estuary mouth creates naturally calm swimming conditions. Pack a cooler box and spend the whole day — there's truly nowhere better.

A trip to Ponto do Ouro is always fun and surprisingly easy from Kosi Bay — one of the closest South African border crossings to the Mozambican coast.

Passports are required along with your vehicle registration papers. Foreign passport holders need to obtain a visa at the border gate. A Moz 3rd Party vehicle insurance is compulsory and can be purchased at the border. Border gate opening times are generally 08h00 to 17h00.

A day trip to the areas on the other side of the estuary and lake system is an absolute must. Black Rock beach is widely regarded as one of the most pristine beaches in the world.

Explore the wild northern shores of Kosi Bay — untouched coastline, incredible snorkelling and some of the most spectacular beach scenery in Africa. Permits must be bought and collected from the Parks Board office at Lake 3. A 4x4 vehicle is essential for this route.