This is “Maputaland at its Very Best”
The Kosi Bay lake system is connected to the Indian Ocean by a tidal estuary. The tidal flow changes without impediments as the moon and sun dictate and the sea life takes full advantage of this natural ebb and flow. There are numerous channels which flow across and through the sand flats near the mouth and these too are ever changing depending on tides and wind. The Kosi “Aquarium” forms part of this estuarine system. It is however sheltered in the far south-western corner by a low sand dune separating it from the beach as well as a high forested dune.
The Kosi estuary is a unique system where local Thonga fishermen have been building fish kraals for as long as anyone can remember and local culture estimates 700 to 800 years or longer. This tradition has been passed on from generation to generation and this feature has, for many decades been a major drawcard for adventurous travelers visiting the area. Fortunately the whole estuarine system including the beaches and adjoining ocean was declared a RAMSAR protected area in 1991. Read more about MPA’s here. Visitors from far and wide now visit these enormous and unspoilt beaches and lakes to appreciate and experience all that is to offer.
Two of the biggest annual attractions are the Turtle laying season, which you can read about here as well as the hatching season a few months later. See the Turtle Tour itinerary here. For many fish species the sheltered waters of the Aquarium serve as a spawning or breeding ground where numerous juvenile species such as parrotfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish and wrasse will be found. Read more about the Lionfish here. Other larger species such as, but not limited to mullet, grunter, kingfish and snappers are also found and many of these larger species travel further up into the lake system for breeding. To date more than 200 marine fish species have been identified in the Aquarium area. Scuba divers also visit the Aquarium to snorkel and gain a different insight into the variety of fish species and other sea life in these sheltered waters and snorkelers both novice and experienced are able to enjoy the area which is safe for both old and young. A guided option is also available for those wishing to gain more knowledge and swim with an informative guide.
Come and experience this unique system with friends and family. Accommodation is available at our tented camp just outside the park gate. We can also assist in packaging a holiday to suit your requirements. Other activities include boat trips on the lakes, kayaking, hiking, birding, turtle tours and visits to the Raffia Palm forests.
Contact us
