Kosi Bay is a series of four interlinked lakes in the Maputaland area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.The lakes form part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The closest town is Manguzi, some 13 kilometres away from it. 

Kosi Bay estuary is only 2 kilometres from the Mozambique border. It is possible to walk from the estuary to Ponta do Ouro in only an hour or so. It is one of the quietest beaches in South Africa. The Kosi River Mouth is known as "the aquarium" because of the clarity of the water and the abundance of fish species.Bird species in the area include the palm-nut vulture, Pel's fishing owl, white-backed night-heron, and kingfishers. Duiker, hippopotamus, crocodiles and bull sharks are also present, and loggerhead and endangered leatherback sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach. 

The Bay is noted for its aggressive bull shark population. The sharks are locally known as zambesi. Whale sharks and manta rays also visit the area. Whale watching to target mainly humpback whales and dolphins is a growing industry in Kosi Bay region.

The Kosi palm has the largest leaf of any plant. Endemic species include the Kosi cycad and Kosi fern. It is one of very few places on earth where five different species of mangrove trees are found in one area. Kosi Bay is particularly famous for the traditional Tsonga fish traps built to trap fish moving in and out of the estuary with the tide. The Tsonga people, who have made this land their home for more than 1000 years, are experts in fish traps and the construction of fishkraal.

We offer guided or self drive tours to the area, travel with someone who knows the area well so that you get the full experience. Please note there is a Limit on number of vehicles and access is granted via a permit system which we will assist you with.Please book early so that we can ensure your access.