Africa

Turtle Lodge


Nature's Embrace: Kosi Bay Your Enchanted Escape Awaits.

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Available Adventures

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Making Memories - Thongaland Turtle Lodge

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Experience the serene beauty of Kosi Bay with a stay at our enchanting lodge, ​conveniently located just 800 meters from the Kosi Bay Mouth entrance. ​Perfectly poised for those longing to bask in our immaculate beaches, our ​lodge offers the ideal retreat for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.


Tucked away in a lush forest setting, our accommodations provide a cool, shady ​haven, allowing you to unwind in harmony with nature. Embrace the tranquility ​of a nearly off-the-grid lifestyle, free from the interruptions of load shedding, ​yet stay connected with our reliable Wi-Fi, perfect for sharing your daily ​adventures with loved ones.


Delight in the rustic charm of our self-catered family houses, a cozy sanctuary ​for your private getaway. For an extra touch of indulgence, let us treat you to ​magical lantern-lit dinners and wholesome breakfasts under the majestic ​Cape-ash tree, creating unforgettable memories in this idyllic setting.


Join us for a unique stay where comfort meets nature, and each day is a new ​opportunity to explore the wonders of Kosi Bay.


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Forest Hideaway

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Forest Hideaway -

Accommodates maximum 5 guests

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Our Forest Hideaway, a unique creation of local craftsmanship using wood and canvas, is elevated on stilts amidst the lush indigenous forest. It comfortably sleeps five guests in two beautifully furnished rooms, ensuring a tranquil stay.

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The accommodation includes a spacious shared bathroom, well-appointed with a toilet, basin, and shower, catering to all your comfort needs.

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For your culinary adventures, the kitchen is fully equipped with essential amenities, including a gas-powered freezer/fridge and a two-burner gas cooker.


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The unit also features a cozy counter and lounge area, a perfect refuge during those occasional rainy days.

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Step out onto the charming deck that merges with the forest, where you can enjoy al fresco dining next to the fireplace/braai.

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Benefit from our daily cleaning service and the provision of soft bath towels, adding to the comfort and ease of your stay in our forest sanctuary.

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Leatherback Retrea​t

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Leatherback Retreat -

Accommodates a maximum of 6 guests.

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Our Leatherback Escape, a unique creation of local craftsmanship using cement, wood and canvas amidst the ​lush indigenous forest. It comfortably sleeps six guests in two beautifully furnished rooms, ensuring a t​ranquil stay.

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The accommodation includes two spacious bathrooms, well-appointed with a toilet, basin and show​er, catering to all your comfort needs.

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For your culinary adventures, the kitchen is fully equipped with essential amenities, including a free​zer/fridge and a two-burner gas cooker.


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The unit also features a cozy counter and lounge area, a perfect refuge during those occasional rainy days.

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Step out onto the charming deck that merges with the forest, where you can enjoy al fresco dining next to the fireplace/braai.

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Benefit from our daily cleaning service and the provision of soft bath towels, adding to the comfort and ease of your stay in our forest sanctuary.

Check Availability

Thongaland Turtle Lodge 2024 Rates

Forest Hideaway

Sleeps a Maximum of 5 Guests

  • R1500 per night for 2 Guests
  • R450 per night / each extra person
  • 0-2 years (Stay Free)
  • 3-12 years (20% Discount)

Leatherback Retrea​t

Sleeps a Maximum of 6 Guest​s

  • R2000 per night for 2 Guests
  • R500 per night / each extra person​
  • 0-2 years (Stay Free)​
  • 3-12 years (20% Discount)​
Italian Food

Catering

  • Pre-Book Catering requirements
  • Breakfast: R150/person
  • Lunch: R150/person
  • Dinner: R250/person

Peak Season

  • 15 Dec 2023 - 15 Jan 2024
  • 15 Dec 2024 - 15 Jan 2025


In peak season a minimum charge of ​R2400 per night apply

Please Note:

*Prices are subject to change

** Certain seasons require minimum numbers/nights stay

*** Please contact the booking team for further information

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King Shaka

CPT

Cape Town International

Location

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Discover the secluded charm of Thongaland Turtle Lodge, located within walking distance of the extraordinary iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which invites you to a world where nature reigns supreme. This World Heritage Site surrounds you with untamed African wilderness, offering encounters that are both rare and profound.


To fully enjoy the natural landscape, a 4x4 vehicle is suggested. However, we've got you covered with accessible transfers to every destination. For those driving vehicles with low clearance, our nearby secure parking ensures your peace of mind.


S26°53'38.59" E32°51'12.87"

Forest Feast: Indulge in Nature-Inspired Cuisine

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Delight in the rustic charm of our self-catered family houses, a cozy sanctuary ​for your private getaway. For an extra touch of indulgence, let us treat you to ​magical lantern-lit dinners and roasted marshmallows. Wake up refreshed

to the smell of coffee beans and wholesome breakfasts under the majestic ​Cape-ash tree, creating unforgettable memories in this idyllic setting.


Savour the authentic flavours of our community with a wider culinary selection, ​and explore a variety of restaurants located around the 3rd Lake, just 15 km ​away.


Specific Dining Options: Tailored for Your Needs. Please pre-book through our ​Reservations Department.

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Shops & Supplies

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Our location combines convenience with local charm. Find everyday essentials at the nearby border post shop, just 4km away. For a broader selection, Manguzi town's Shoprite and Spar are your go-to destinations. Plus, we've got your firewood sorted, thanks to our neighbourly suppliers.

Passports & Visa’s

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To ensure a smooth entry into South Africa, all foreign visitors must have a passport valid for at least 30 days beyond their planned departure date. Additionally, your passport should contain a minimum of two blank pages designated for visas to accommodate entry and exit stamps. We strongly recommend verifying your specific country's visa requirements by contacting the South African embassy or consulate prior to travel.

Health & Safety

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Please remember to pack an adequate amount of a​ny personal medications you may need throug​hout your visit.

Weather Guide

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May to September: Delight in mild temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Days are predominantly sunny, with a refreshing coolness in the mornings and evenings. Ocean lovers will find sea temperatures ranging from 18°C to a comfortable 24°C.


October to April: Prepare for the heat, as temperatures range from a warm 20°C up to a sizzling 38°C, accompanied by high humidity. Expect occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons and evenings, offering a welcome respite. Sea temperatures are inviting, ranging from 24°C to 30°C, perfect for water activities.

Packing for Your Adventure

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  • Clothing: Bring light, breathable cotton wear for the bush, and add in some comfy smart-casual outfits for dining out and casual for Turtle Lodge eating in. Don't forget your swimwear, sandals, and summer attire for those warm days!
  • Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and a windbreaker are must-haves, regardless of the season.
  • Gear: Pack sturdy walking shoes for exploring, plus binoculars and cameras (with spare batteries) to capture every moment.
  • Personal Items: Lip balm, contact lens solution, and spare glasses are key for comfort. And, grab a few reference guidebooks to enhance your experience.


Highlights

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  • Turtle Breeding Season: From 15th Nov-15th Mar,​ witness the awe-inspiring turtle breeding season, a​ time of natural wonder and ecological significance.​
  • Optimal Weather Period: Mar-Jun: Enjoy ideal​ weather with pleasant temperatures and clear​ skies, perfect for outdoor activities & adventures.​


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Book Your Adventure

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KOSI BAY TURTLE TOURS

Witness Life's Beginnings: From Nesting Rituals to Hatchlings' Brave Moonlit Ocean Entry!

R750 per person

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KOSI BAY AQUARIUM SNORKELING

Where Every Dive is a New Discovery – From Colourful Fish to Majestic Rays!

R380 per person

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BEST OF KOSI BAY MOUTH

Paddle into Paradise: Join Vusi to Unveil the Secrets of Kosi Bay. An Adventure of Culture and Beauty!

R1050 per person

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KOSI BAY

KAYAKING

Kayak with Nature: Explore Kosi Bay's Hidden Mangrove Mazes and Wildlife Wonders!

R350 per person

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KOSI BAY FISHTRAP

& PALMWINE

Tradition Comes Alive: Witness Fishtrap Fishing and Relish Palm Wine Tasting in the Heart of Kosi Bay!

R280 per person

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KOSI BAY

BIRDING

A Birder's Dream: Navigate Kosi Bay's Ecosystems for the Ultimate Birding Experience!

R300 per person​

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TEMBE ELEPHANT PARK SAFARI

Roam with Giants: Unveil the Splendour of Tembe Elephant Park, from Majestic Elephants to Exotic Wildlife!

R1150 per person

Uncover Adventure Details

Please Note:

*Prices are subject to change

** Certain Adventures require minimum numbers

*** Please go to the Adventure page for further information

**** Receive a tailored Adventure Itinerary from the hosts - Request

Africa

Sharing Our African Dream

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Safari and Surf is a family affair, and we live for the wild heartbeat of Africa. Each morning, we, a band of passionate nature enthusiasts, wake to the call of the wilderness. Our love for the great outdoors and a deep commitment to wildlife conservation drive us to craft authentic ocean and bush adventures. We're here to guide you beyond the usual into the raw, uncharted beauty of nature. Every day, we share our love for this pristine environment, creating experiences that touch the soul.


Our adventures, set against the backdrop of Kosi Bay's serene waters and the lush expanse of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, are a celebration of diversity. Whether we're kayaking through calm estuaries, snorkelling in vibrant reefs, or on safari witnessing Africa's majestic wildlife, we're dedicated to showing you the true splendour of our home. We believe in letting you feel, hear, and immerse in the wilderness, connecting with its spirit.


As the sun sets, the magic continues. We lead turtle nesting tours, revealing the fragile beauty of life on these shores. For us, it's not just about witnessing nature's wonders; it's about fostering a love and respect for our environment. Join us at Safari and Surf to find your roots, reconnect with nature, and create memories that resonate with joy and a deeper appreciation for our natural world. South Africa's last unexplored wetland wilderness.

Turtle Tours: Journey with Purpose

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Leatherback Turtle Hatchling
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Leatherback Turtle Hatchling
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Embark on a captivating journey with our Kosi Bay Turtle Nesting Tour, a rare opportunity to witness one of nature's most enchanting rituals. From November to January, the shores of Kosi Bay become the stage for a remarkable spectacle as female turtles emerge from the ocean's embrace to lay their eggs. Guided by our experienced team, you'll tread softly along the beach under the starlit sky, using minimal lighting to respectfully observe these majestic creatures. Watch in awe as they meticulously craft their nests, a ritual unchanged for millennia. Our ethical approach ensures minimal disturbance, allowing you a glimpse into this sacred natural process.


As the season transitions from January to March, the focus shifts to the awe-inspiring emergence of turtle hatchlings. Imagine standing on the warm, moonlit sands as scores of tiny hatchlings burst forth, instinctively making their way to the sea. This magical moment, usually beginning around 8 PM, marks the start of their incredible oceanic journey. Our tours are designed to honour and protect these delicate creatures, with photography guidelines that ensure their safe passage. January offers a unique chance to witness both the nesting mothers and their brave offspring on the same evening, making it an unforgettable experience.


Kosi Bay is not just a destination; it's a conservation success story, where the efforts of the Natal Parks Board and Dr George Hughes since 1963 have led to a thriving turtle population. Today, with the highest number of nesting females annually, our tours offer the best chance to see both Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles. These ancient mariners, some living up to 150 years, travel thousands of kilometres to the mineral-rich beaches of Kosi Bay, a testament to their enduring legacy. Join us for a tour led by some of the most knowledgeable guides in the field, and be part of a legacy of conservation and wonder, right here at Kosi Bay.


Journey with Purpose

Colour for a Cause:

Transform your passion for mental well-being and art into action for turtles with the Kosi Bay Turtle Mandala Colouring Book. Your purchase helps protect these sea wanderers in their natural habitat. Together with Safari and Surf Wilderness Adventures, we can create a wave of change, one mandala at a time!

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Our Partners:

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Immerse yourself in the authentic beauty of the ocean and bush with Safari and Surf. Our adventures, crafted with care, offer a harmonious blend of the wonders 'above and below' in the

breathtaking iSimangaliso Wetland Park.


From the serene bases of St Lucia and Kosi Bay, we bring you an array of experiences: birding walks, kayaking adventures, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, wildlife safaris along iSimangaliso's Eastern Shores, encounters with the majestic elephants of Tembe, thrilling surfing, and the miraculous turtle nesting tours – all wrapped in an atmosphere of pure joy and happy vibes.


Our passion is to lead you off the beaten track, away from the crowds, into the heart of unspoiled wilderness.



Embrace the Call of the Wild: Join Us and Find Your Roots in Nature's Heart!

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