KOSI FOREST LODGE

KWAZULU NATAL

Guests are accommodated in thatched bedrooms, on raised wooden decks, hidden in the sand forest, with romantic outside bathrooms set under the lush leafy canopy. This is, as it should be, an Ecolological lodge with a gentle footprint. The lovely candle-lit meals are served outside on the terrace or in the Boma, a typical African circular stockage. Local school children often arrive to perform traditional Zulu dances.

LOCATION
Incorporated into the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in Zululand, an internationally recognized World Heritage Site, this lodge borders the Kosi Lake system and is a short drive to the nearby town of Manguzi (KwaNgwanase). The Kosi Bay area is south of the southern border of Mozambique.

ACCOMMODATION
8 en-suite comfortable thatch and canvas rooms set on wooden decks. All beds have mosquito nets. The unique open-air, reed-enclosed bathrooms with the bath and shower sunk into white forest sand has been noted by our guests as one of the highlights of their visit.

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COMMENDABLE DESTINATION

ACTIVITIES
Guests at Kosi Forest Lodge are encouraged to explore the diversity of the area by taking part in any of the following activities: Please note that all activities are weather dependant and may change according to the needs of other guests staying at the lodge.

Guided canoeing
The highlight of many guests stay at Kosi Forest Lodge is the canoe trip on the Kosi Lakes. Guests get the opportunity to canoe along the Sihadla channel and admire the magnificent Raffia Palms. The bird life while canoeing is very rewarding. Canoeing is always accompanied by a guide and is included in the full board rate. Look out for the rare Pel’s Fishing Owl. Unfortunately no children under 12.

Raffia Palm Forest Walk
Enjoy early morning or late afternoon guided walks through the magnificent Raffia Palm Forest. Listen out for the abundant birdcalls and perhaps catch a glimpse of the rare Palm-nut Vulture, whom is seen regularly in the canopy. The raffia palm is the largest palm in the world. Listen also for the call of monkeys high in the forest.

Full Day Boat Trip
The Kosi Lake system is a series of interconnected lakes which stretch over some 18km. The best way to see the system is by boat. The Boat trip takes a meander through various sized lakes and channels, and includes a walk through the famous Kosi Bay fish traps, the ancient fishing methods of the local people – a must whilst staying at Kosi Forest Lodge. Get close (but not too close !) to the families of hippos that occupy parts of the lake system. This excursion is followed by a picnic lunch and a swim in the sea at Bhanga Nek.

Full Day Kosi Mouth Visit
It takes just over an hour to drive to the beautiful Kosi Bay Mouth. Here you will see how the sea and lakes interconnect in a wonderful swirl of colour, sand and water. There’s great snorkelling with plenty of fish to view all year round. The water is warm and almost always crystal clear. The rock pools along this protected stretch of coastline are a virtual aquarium of brilliant sub-tropical fish. Enjoy swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters, soaking up the sun along this beautiful stretch of beach, followed by a scrumptious picnic lunch.

Turtle tracking
Turtle tracking is offered every night from 15 November to 15 January. These excursions (including transfers to and from the beach) can last up to 3-4hrs and may return very late. Giant Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles make their way home having swum the length of the continent in a return journey to the beach where they were born. Research has shown that eggs are often laid within meters of where the mother emerged as a hatchling years previously. Guests are able to view these magnificent creatures’ meters from where they lay their eggs. Utmost precaution is taken to ensure that they are not disturbed. Kosi Forest Lodge supports a local community that have been awarded the concession for turtle tracking so the trip may be attended by other guests to the area. A packed dinner is provided. Not available on New Year’s Eve & New Years Day

Illala Palm Wine Tasting/Cultural Experience
A guide will take you into a local village for some wine tasting (be careful as it can be strong!) as well as an explanation and tour of their homes, followed by Sundowners around Lake Shengeza. This activity is dependent on the season and the availability of the wine – no charge.

WEATHER
Winter months:
May to September. Temperatures range from 10C to 25C. Although the days are usually sunny, the evenings and early mornings can be cool.

Summer months: October to April. Temperatures range from 20C to 38C. This is a Summer rainfall area. The days are usually hot and humid with occasional afternoon and evening thunderstorms.

CLOTHING
Casual wear should be comfortable and cool. Remember to bring swimwear, sun hats and sandals for the day trip to the beach. An all weather outdoor anorak/windbreaker should be taken along as well as sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or track shoes are recommended. Please bring sun block and mosquito repellent.

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Main Office, 214 Sea Island Dr,
Georgetown, South Carolina, USA, 29440-7260
Prime Number: + 1 843-548-4213
Europe Phone: +33 (0)6 52 49 99 22
Email: susan@commendablerentals.com

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