Local Buzz:
Right, good people, this is as far north-east as you can book accommodation here in our Rainbow Nation! Imagine Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique just across the border, mix in a sub-tropical vibe and some seriously kiff fat-biking, and you’ll sommer want to saddle up for a beach ride at Utshwayelo right away.
This part of the KwaZulu-Natal north coast remains relatively unexplored, and because it lies within the iSimangaliso World Heritage site, you can bargain on a natural and cultural experience bar none. The royal Tembe clan – members of the Tonga people – have lived here for more than 250 years, and their influence have shaped the traditions which holds sway to this day.
There’s no better place to chill than at the community-owned Utshwayelo, a lodge named for the many ancient fish kraals dotting the nearby Kosi Bay estuary. Enock Tembe and Ken Whitfield run Utshwayelo – in conjunction with the local chief and elders – and you will settle into a lekker and laid-back rhythm as soon as you arrive.
There are a number of prime camping spots spread around the lodge, and accommodation options include well-appointed luxury tents, family chalets and a range of bungalows, all ranging from rustic to elegant. The Ezemvelo protected area start at the lodge gate, with a 2.5km sand track connecting you to Kosi Bay Mouth Reserve and Estuary.
The snorkelling here is off the scale, and in fact better than anywhere else I’ve dipped my head underwater, ever! We spotted a dozen moray eels at least while drifting on the out-going tide, and were surrounded by countless tropical fish (over 200 species have been listed). Other activities include scuba diving, surfing, angling, boating, fly-fishing, 4×4 off-roading and superb trail running.
For more information on the area, visit www.kosibay.africa