Amangwane Camp

The unique Kosi Bay lake system, part of an estuary that runs into the Indian Ocean at the Mozambique border, is one of the most pristine environments in Southern Africa.

A long term favourite at Rainbow Tours, we recommend a two or three night stay. You can kayak, learn to trap and spear fish and snorkel with game-viewing in nearby Tembe Elephant Park.

Accommodation is in simple en suite reed chalets in a community-run campsite. Meals are appetising, often freshly caught seafood, and are cooked around the campfire.

Accommodation

Accommodation is in en suite reed chalets with shower, stretcher beds and crisp linen, in a community-run campsite. Appetising meals are cooked around the campfire and fresh seafood is a feature of the menu.

Habitat

The unique Kosi Bay lake system, part of an estuary that runs into the Indian Ocean at the Mozambique border, is one of the most pristine environments in southern Africa. The lakes are separated from the ocean by a sliver of sand dune that has been home to the Thonga people for more than 700 years. The Thonga still harvest fish using ancient tidal fishing kraals, made of wicker.

The swamp forests of this area are the largest in the country. The raffia palm, on which the Palm nut vulture is dependent, finds its southern limit here. This is the only place in South Africa where five species of mangrove are found. Kosi Bay supports a great variety of fish and other aquatic fauna. Several other bird species are also at the most southerly limits of their distribution at Kosi and are not encountered elsewhere in South Africa. This is an exciting way to feel part of the African landscape, a chance to let your hair down and have uncomplicated fun.

Dolphins and turtles

Optional add-ons include a scenic day trip to Ponta do Oura in Mozambique, where you take an ocean boat trip and swim for dolphins, and an evening walking tour with trained community guides to find nesting loggerhead and leather backed turtles [Nov-Feb].

Getting there

You can leave your hire car either at Ghost Mountain in Mkuze on the N2 or at Tembe Elephant Park, which is on the road to Rocktail Bay. Your guide will meet you for the onward journey in a 4WD. Alternatively, if you fly in to Richards Bay, your guide will meet you there.