St Lucia, Sodwana & Kosi Bay - Everything you need to know before you go!
Recommended duration of stay:
South Africa’s tropical East Coast is home to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where lush coastal wilderness, unspoiled beaches, and safari adventures converge in a truly unique setting. Nearby Sodwana Bay, celebrated as the country’s scuba diving capital, offers vibrant coral reefs and world-class dive sites. This region is a must-visit for those with a keen interest in scuba diving.
- Kosi Bay or St Lucia only: 3 nights minimum
- Kosi Bay and St Lucia: 5 nights minimum
- Kosi Bay, St Lucia and Sodwana: 6 nights minimum
Discover the Top Attractions in St Lucia:
1. Boat Cruise Safari
Glide down the St Lucia Estuary on a guided cruise, where pods of hippos grunt and splash nearby while crocodiles sunbathe along the riverbanks. You'll also spot soaring African fish eagles and herons. This is a perfect family-friendly activity and an unforgettable way to experience wildlife from the water.
2. iSimangaliso Wetland Park Safari
Explore one of South Africa’s most biodiverse parks with a game drive through open savannah, wetlands, and dune forests. Spot rhinos, buffalo, elephants, and possibly leopards, all set against a backdrop of unspoiled beauty. Sunrise and sunset safaris offer particularly magical light for photography and wildlife viewing.
3. Cape Vidal Snorkeling & Safari Combo
Combine the best of both worlds — start with a morning game drive through iSimangaliso, then cool off with snorkeling in the warm, shallow reefs of Cape Vidal, teeming with colorful fish and corals. The beach here is also perfect for relaxing with a picnic.
4. Horseback Safari
Saddle up and ride through bushveld trails or along untouched beaches, often alongside giraffe, wildebeest, and zebra. It's a serene and non-intrusive way to experience wildlife — ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
5. Turtle Nesting Tours (Nov–March)
Join a nighttime guided walk on remote beaches to witness ancient loggerhead and leatherback turtles nesting under the stars — an awe-inspiring encounter with one of nature’s rarest spectacles.
6. Kayaking on the Estuary
Paddle quietly through calm waters surrounded by dense mangroves and reeds. This guided kayak tour lets you get closer to hippos, crocodiles, and birds in their natural habitat, offering a peaceful yet thrilling perspective.
7. Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Test your angling skills on a fully equipped boat heading into the Indian Ocean. Catch prized species like kingfish, dorado, tuna, or even marlin. Charters often include snacks, gear, and seasoned skippers who know the best fishing spots.
8. Zulu Cultural Village Tour
Gain insight into the rich heritage of the Zulu people with a guided visit to a local cultural village. Watch traditional dancing, hear ancient stories, and learn about crafts, clothing, and the deep spiritual connection the Zulu have to the land.
9. Exploring St Lucia Town (Watch for Hippos!)
Take a stroll through the relaxed coastal town of St Lucia, where you'll find charming shops, cozy cafes, and a friendly village vibe. As evening falls, keep an eye out — hippos often wander the streets at night, grazing on lawns and surprising visitors. It's one of the few towns in the world where wildlife and people live so closely together!
Top Things to Do in Sodwana – Dive Into Paradise:
1. Diving, diving and more scuba diving!
Sodwana Bay is world-renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it one of the world’s premier diving destinations. Divers can explore vibrant reefs teeming with over 1,200 species of fish, colorful corals, and unique underwater formations. Top dive sites include Two Mile Reef, known for its massive coral bommies and diverse reef fish; Six Mile Reef, famous for deep walls and frequent pelagic visitors like manta rays and whale sharks; Seven Mile Reef, a deeper site popular for spotting large predators and schools of fish; and Eight Mile Reef, which offers dramatic drop-offs and excellent visibility. At certain times of the year, divers can encounter majestic whale sharks and the resident ragged-tooth sharks, which are usually docile and add an exciting element to dives.
2. Ocean Safaris
Join a guided boat safari to explore the deeper waters off Sodwana Bay. These tours often include opportunities to see pods of dolphins, migrating whales (especially humpbacks during the winter months), and sometimes the elusive whale sharks. The tours also includes freediving or snorkeling stops to experience the marine life up close in open water.
Kosi Bay’s Best-Kept Secrets - the Hidden Gem:
1. Kosi Bay Mouth
This breathtaking lagoon boasts crystal-clear, warm waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Beneath the surface lies a vibrant underwater world full of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and fascinating marine creatures. Alongside the lagoon, you’ll find magnificent, never-ending deserted beaches—pristine stretches of soft sand that extend as far as the eye can see. These untouched shores offer a peaceful, idyllic setting for long walks, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature far from the crowds.
2. Enchanting Boat Tours on the Kosi Bay Lakes
Explore the tranquil Kosi Bay Lakes on boat tours that navigate the crystal-clear waters and the peaceful canals linking them. Along the way, you might spot hippos lounging near the shore, alongside abundant birdlife and lush mangroves. This serene journey offers a unique chance to experience the rich wildlife and hidden beauty of Kosi Bay’s coastal ecosystem.
3. Hiking in the Kosi Forest Reserve
Wander through dense coastal forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna. This rich ecosystem is home to rare bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and hikers. The peaceful trails wind through towering trees and lush undergrowth, offering a perfect escape into nature’s quiet embrace.
4. Turtle Nesting (November to March)
From November to March, the beaches of Kosi Bay become one of the best places in the world to witness endangered sea turtles nesting. With a remarkably high success rate, these majestic creatures come ashore under the cover of night to lay their eggs on the pristine sands. Witnessing this rare and magical natural event is an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers. Conservation efforts here help protect these incredible animals and ensure the survival of future generations.
5. Thembe Elephant Park
Just a short drive from Kosi Bay, Thembe Elephant Park is a vast wilderness area known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. This pristine park offers excellent game viewing opportunities, including sightings of lions, buffalo, rhinos, and hippos. The park’s untouched landscapes and authentic safari experience make it a fantastic addition for travelers wanting to experience Africa’s majestic wildlife in a less crowded, intimate setting.
Your stay in the East Coast:
Apart from St Lucia, the East Coast remains one of the least developed regions in South Africa. Accommodation tends to be comfortable yet simple, with few luxury options available. Its remote location makes it a highly affordable destination allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the coastal forests.
For more details about the accommodation options, please refer to the accommodation tab.
Transportation and getting around:
You'll have a private guide and vehicle for all transfers to and from the accommodation lodges. Most activities will be led by professional guides provided by the lodges, while your private guide will handle all other transportation needs.
Best time of year to visit:
The East Coast is an excellent year-round destination thanks to their subtropical climate, which means the region never gets very cold. Even in winter, daytime temperatures remain mild and pleasant, and the ocean stays warm enough for diving and snorkeling.
- Summer (December to February) on the East Coast is hot, humid, and lush, marked by afternoon thundershowers and high temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It’s the peak season for marine turtle activity, with Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles nesting and hatching along the beaches, making it an exceptional time for wildlife viewing. The ocean is warm (26–28°C), ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling, and birdlife is abundant with the arrival of summer migrants.
- Winter (June to August) offers dry, sunny days with mild temperatures (22–26°C) and cooler nights (10–15°C), making it one of the most comfortable times to visit. The ocean remains diveable with good visibility and calmer conditions, although water temperatures drop slightly (21–23°C). It’s also the beginning of the humpback whale migration, adding another wildlife highlight to the season.
- Autumn & Spring (March – May & September – November) strike a great balance between summer's vibrancy and winter’s comfort, offering warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and good conditions for both land and sea adventures. Autumn (March–May) is still lush and warm following the rainy season, while spring (September–November) brings increasing warmth and the first signs of turtle nesting (starting mid-November).
General Advice:
- Bank cards are widely accepted, so there’s no need to carry large amounts of cash. However, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for tipping or when visiting small cultural markets that may not accept cards.
- Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated in the sevice industry. Safari guides typically receive between R100 and R200 per day, while lodge cleaning staff usually receive around R30 per day.
- Be sure to bring insect and mosquito repellent. Peaceful Sleep and Tabard are effective brands commonly available in South African grocery stores.
- Be sure to bring a raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear if possible — while rentals are available, your own equipment will always offer a more comfortable fit.
- Always bring your swimsuit for boat cruises and beach activities—you never know when your guide might stop for a refreshing swim or a chance to snorkel.
- Be sure to protect your skin—sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days.
- Hippos often wander through the town of St Lucia at night — do not approach them and keep your distance.
Brief History:
The East Coast of South Africa—St Lucia, Sodwana Bay, and Kosi Bay—is rich in cultural and ecological heritage. Inhabited for centuries by the San, Zulu, and Thonga people, it features ancient traditions like the 700-year-old fish kraals of Kosi Bay. Portuguese explorers arrived in the 1500s, and conservation began with the St Lucia Game Reserve in 1895. Today, as part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, this region is renowned for its biodiversity, coral reefs, and cultural significance.
St Lucia, Sodwana & Kosi Bay - Everything you need to know before you go!
Recommended duration of stay:
South Africa’s tropical East Coast is home to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where lush coastal wilderness, unspoiled beaches, and safari adventures converge in a truly unique setting. Nearby Sodwana Bay, celebrated as the country’s scuba diving capital, offers vibrant coral reefs and world-class dive sites. This region is a must-visit for those with a keen interest in scuba diving.
- Kosi Bay or St Lucia only: 3 nights minimum
- Kosi Bay and St Lucia: 5 nights minimum
- Kosi Bay, St Lucia and Sodwana: 6 nights minimum
Discover the Top Attractions in St Lucia:
1. Boat Cruise Safari
Glide down the St Lucia Estuary on a guided cruise, where pods of hippos grunt and splash nearby while crocodiles sunbathe along the riverbanks. You'll also spot soaring African fish eagles and herons. This is a perfect family-friendly activity and an unforgettable way to experience wildlife from the water.
2. iSimangaliso Wetland Park Safari
Explore one of South Africa’s most biodiverse parks with a game drive through open savannah, wetlands, and dune forests. Spot rhinos, buffalo, elephants, and possibly leopards, all set against a backdrop of unspoiled beauty. Sunrise and sunset safaris offer particularly magical light for photography and wildlife viewing.
3. Cape Vidal Snorkeling & Safari Combo
Combine the best of both worlds — start with a morning game drive through iSimangaliso, then cool off with snorkeling in the warm, shallow reefs of Cape Vidal, teeming with colorful fish and corals. The beach here is also perfect for relaxing with a picnic.
4. Horseback Safari
Saddle up and ride through bushveld trails or along untouched beaches, often alongside giraffe, wildebeest, and zebra. It's a serene and non-intrusive way to experience wildlife — ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
5. Turtle Nesting Tours (Nov–March)
Join a nighttime guided walk on remote beaches to witness ancient loggerhead and leatherback turtles nesting under the stars — an awe-inspiring encounter with one of nature’s rarest spectacles.
6. Kayaking on the Estuary
Paddle quietly through calm waters surrounded by dense mangroves and reeds. This guided kayak tour lets you get closer to hippos, crocodiles, and birds in their natural habitat, offering a peaceful yet thrilling perspective.
7. Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Test your angling skills on a fully equipped boat heading into the Indian Ocean. Catch prized species like kingfish, dorado, tuna, or even marlin. Charters often include snacks, gear, and seasoned skippers who know the best fishing spots.
8. Zulu Cultural Village Tour
Gain insight into the rich heritage of the Zulu people with a guided visit to a local cultural village. Watch traditional dancing, hear ancient stories, and learn about crafts, clothing, and the deep spiritual connection the Zulu have to the land.
9. Exploring St Lucia Town (Watch for Hippos!)
Take a stroll through the relaxed coastal town of St Lucia, where you'll find charming shops, cozy cafes, and a friendly village vibe. As evening falls, keep an eye out — hippos often wander the streets at night, grazing on lawns and surprising visitors. It's one of the few towns in the world where wildlife and people live so closely together!
Top Things to Do in Sodwana – Dive Into Paradise:
1. Diving, diving and more scuba diving!
Sodwana Bay is world-renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it one of the world’s premier diving destinations. Divers can explore vibrant reefs teeming with over 1,200 species of fish, colorful corals, and unique underwater formations. Top dive sites include Two Mile Reef, known for its massive coral bommies and diverse reef fish; Six Mile Reef, famous for deep walls and frequent pelagic visitors like manta rays and whale sharks; Seven Mile Reef, a deeper site popular for spotting large predators and schools of fish; and Eight Mile Reef, which offers dramatic drop-offs and excellent visibility. At certain times of the year, divers can encounter majestic whale sharks and the resident ragged-tooth sharks, which are usually docile and add an exciting element to dives.
2. Ocean Safaris
Join a guided boat safari to explore the deeper waters off Sodwana Bay. These tours often include opportunities to see pods of dolphins, migrating whales (especially humpbacks during the winter months), and sometimes the elusive whale sharks. The tours also includes freediving or snorkeling stops to experience the marine life up close in open water.
Kosi Bay’s Best-Kept Secrets - the Hidden Gem:
1. Kosi Bay Mouth
This breathtaking lagoon boasts crystal-clear, warm waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Beneath the surface lies a vibrant underwater world full of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and fascinating marine creatures. Alongside the lagoon, you’ll find magnificent, never-ending deserted beaches—pristine stretches of soft sand that extend as far as the eye can see. These untouched shores offer a peaceful, idyllic setting for long walks, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature far from the crowds.
2. Enchanting Boat Tours on the Kosi Bay Lakes
Explore the tranquil Kosi Bay Lakes on boat tours that navigate the crystal-clear waters and the peaceful canals linking them. Along the way, you might spot hippos lounging near the shore, alongside abundant birdlife and lush mangroves. This serene journey offers a unique chance to experience the rich wildlife and hidden beauty of Kosi Bay’s coastal ecosystem.
3. Hiking in the Kosi Forest Reserve
Wander through dense coastal forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna. This rich ecosystem is home to rare bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and hikers. The peaceful trails wind through towering trees and lush undergrowth, offering a perfect escape into nature’s quiet embrace.
4. Turtle Nesting (November to March)
From November to March, the beaches of Kosi Bay become one of the best places in the world to witness endangered sea turtles nesting. With a remarkably high success rate, these majestic creatures come ashore under the cover of night to lay their eggs on the pristine sands. Witnessing this rare and magical natural event is an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers. Conservation efforts here help protect these incredible animals and ensure the survival of future generations.
5. Thembe Elephant Park
Just a short drive from Kosi Bay, Thembe Elephant Park is a vast wilderness area known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. This pristine park offers excellent game viewing opportunities, including sightings of lions, buffalo, rhinos, and hippos. The park’s untouched landscapes and authentic safari experience make it a fantastic addition for travelers wanting to experience Africa’s majestic wildlife in a less crowded, intimate setting.
Your stay in the East Coast:
Apart from St Lucia, the East Coast remains one of the least developed regions in South Africa. Accommodation tends to be comfortable yet simple, with few luxury options available. Its remote location makes it a highly affordable destination allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the coastal forests.
For more details about the accommodation options, please refer to the accommodation tab.
Transportation and getting around in Johannesburg:
You'll have a private guide and vehicle for all transfers to and from the accommodation lodges. Most activities will be led by professional guides provided by the lodges, while your private guide will handle all other transportation needs.
Best time of year to visit:
The East Coast is an excellent year-round destination thanks to their subtropical climate, which means the region never gets very cold. Even in winter, daytime temperatures remain mild and pleasant, and the ocean stays warm enough for diving and snorkeling.
- Summer (December to February) on the East Coast is hot, humid, and lush, marked by afternoon thundershowers and high temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It’s the peak season for marine turtle activity, with Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles nesting and hatching along the beaches, making it an exceptional time for wildlife viewing. The ocean is warm (26–28°C), ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling, and birdlife is abundant with the arrival of summer migrants.
- Winter (June to August) offers dry, sunny days with mild temperatures (22–26°C) and cooler nights (10–15°C), making it one of the most comfortable times to visit. The ocean remains diveable with good visibility and calmer conditions, although water temperatures drop slightly (21–23°C). It’s also the beginning of the humpback whale migration, adding another wildlife highlight to the season.
- Autumn & Spring (March – May & September – November) strike a great balance between summer's vibrancy and winter’s comfort, offering warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and good conditions for both land and sea adventures. Autumn (March–May) is still lush and warm following the rainy season, while spring (September–November) brings increasing warmth and the first signs of turtle nesting (starting mid-November).
General Advice:
- Bank cards are widely accepted, so there’s no need to carry large amounts of cash. However, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for tipping or when visiting small cultural markets that may not accept cards.
- Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated in the sevice industry. Safari guides typically receive between R100 and R200 per day, while lodge cleaning staff usually receive around R30 per day.
- Be sure to bring insect and mosquito repellent. Peaceful Sleep and Tabard are effective brands commonly available in South African grocery stores.
- Be sure to bring a raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear if possible — while rentals are available, your own equipment will always offer a more comfortable fit.
- Always bring your swimsuit for boat cruises and beach activities—you never know when your guide might stop for a refreshing swim or a chance to snorkel.
- Be sure to protect your skin—sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days.
- Hippos often wander through the town of St Lucia at night — do not approach them and keep your distance.
Brief History:
The East Coast of South Africa—St Lucia, Sodwana Bay, and Kosi Bay—is rich in cultural and ecological heritage. Inhabited for centuries by the San, Zulu, and Thonga people, it features ancient traditions like the 700-year-old fish kraals of Kosi Bay. Portuguese explorers arrived in the 1500s, and conservation began with the St Lucia Game Reserve in 1895. Today, as part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, this region is renowned for its biodiversity, coral reefs, and cultural significance.