Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park
The Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, located on South Africa's extreme northeastern coast, is the crown jewel of the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park. This 10,000 hectare (24,700 acre) network of lakes, pans, marshes, swamps and streams attracts families in search of adventure in its extreme. Observe leatherback and loggerhead turtles nest and hatch. Test your endurance on a 4-day trek along the Nhlange Hiking Trail. Snorkel along the coral reef. Bask in the sun on silver sand beaches. Spot antelope, hippo, crocodile and a plethora of birds, over 250 species have been recorded here. Watch humpback whales from shore. Discover the Tsonga (also spelled Thonga) people known from their primitive, yet ingenious, fish traps. And while the reserve may be set to become a grand place of modern-day explorers, for now, it is a true ecotourism hideaway.
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Getting There
The entrance to the Kosi Bay area of the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park is located 133 km (82 miles) from the N2. Exit the N2 just north of Mkuze, direction Jozini. Take the left fork over the Jozini dam toward Kdumo and Kosi Bay. The last stretch, 13 km or 8 miles, is over a literally unmarked dirt road.
Getting Around
A 4x4 vehicle is required to fully access the park. A permit, available from the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife office at the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, is required to visit most areas. Whether you trek the 4-day, 44 km Nhlange Hiking Trail (also known as the Amanzimnyama Trail) or take a shorter birding or turtle walk be sure your adventure is commensurate with the skill level of the kids.
When to Travel
Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles breed here from November to March. Humpback whales can be seen off the coast from June to December. In summer (December-February), the temperature ranges from a nighttime low of 15° (59°F) to daytime high of 38°C (100°F). In winter (June-August), the temperature ranges from a nighttime low of 4°C (39°F) to a daytime high if 22°C (72°F). The dry season is from April to September.
Travel Health & Child Safety
The Kosi Bay Nature Reserve lies in a malaria area. Malaria is prevalent in areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo including the Kruger National Park and the northern and coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal. Swimmers should keep to the rock pools along the beach.
Hours & Seasons
The gates are open daily from 6:00 to 18:00.
The office is open daily from 7:00 to 16:00. Admission & Fees
The entrance fee is charged both per person and per vehicle. An overnight fee is charged for usage of the camp or campsite.
Contact Details
For additional information on the Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park dial +27 (0)33 845 1002 or send an email to info@kznwildlife.com.
Things to Keep in Mind
Roadside stalls sell a variety of local crafts. Pets are not allowed in the reserve.
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