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classic
thonga trail

bring the gees!

This 45km trail takes you from the Kosi lake system near the Mozambican border, along untouched beaches, through coastal forests, and ends with an ocean safari at Sodwana Bay, where dolphins and coral reefs await. Perfect for those who love exploration and adventure, with daily hikes of around 15km.

We've packed in maximum value—your package includes transfers, expert guides, 4 nights’ accommodation, all meals, drinks, snorkel gear, and 2 seasonal turtle walks. Everything’s covered so you can enjoy the journey!​​

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Day 1
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sodwana bay - kosi lake

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We meet in Sodwana Bay around lunchtime, where you’ll leave your car safely parked on private property. From there, we transfer 100km north along the R22, just shy of the Mozambican border, where your trail begins.

​Your first stop is our hidden forest gem, a stunning new addition to the trail. This spacious tented camp, set in a secluded clearing overlooking Lake Kuhlange, offers a peaceful escape into nature. It’s the perfect spot to explore the Kosi forest and lakes or simply unwind as you settle into the wild surroundings.

In the afternoon, Agrippa leads a guided bird walk through the Kosi forest to the towering Raffia palms—a 3km round trip to get your legs moving for the days ahead.

A three-course meal inspired by our northern neighbors awaits, and for those hiking in summer, we recommend heading to the beach for a turtle walk in search of nesting Loggerhead and Leatherbacks—while your legs are still fresh! If luck isn’t on your side, you’ll have another chance tomorrow.

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kosi lakes and nkovokeni

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Day 2
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We start the day bright and early with a light breakfast of tea, coffee, fruit, yogurt, and cereal, then pack some snacks and set off along the 3rd lake edge, winding through indigenous forest. This hidden trail—so secret even we got lost at first—follows the lake for 5km, offering sightings of Banded Mongoose, Samango Monkeys, Red Duiker, and an incredible variety of birdlife.

The trail then climbs to the top of Nkovokeni, the towering dune that separates the Indian Ocean from Nhlange (3rd lake). Here, we pause to soak in the breathtaking views, before descending to explore the famous fish traps, mangroves, and thriving birdlife, where hippos and flamingos often make an appearance.​​

​A boat ride through the Kosi Lake system awaits! Swim or snorkel among the mangroves, teeming with nursery fish, and get up close with the resident hippos and flamingos as we drift through the picturesque channels back to 3rd lake.​

At camp, a delicious two-course meal is served. The evening is yours to relax by the campfire with a drink, but if you missed the turtles the night before, you have the option for a second turtle walk. Let us know, and we’ll arrange it!

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bhanga nek - black rock

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Day 3
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We start early to beat the heat, just like the turtle eggs incubating beneath the sand. Today’s trail follows one of South Africa’s most untouched coastlines, passing Rabbit Rock, Castle Rock, and Dog Point, before reaching Black Rock, 15km down the beach.

At Black Rock, a laid-back beachside lunch awaits, and the afternoon is yours to explore. Swim, snorkel, or hike up to Black Rock viewpoint, where you might spot Humpback Whales, Green and Hawksbill Turtles, or Bottlenose Dolphins surfing the backline. Keep an eye out for Palm Nut Vultures, often seen soaring along this stretch of coast.​​

We’ll also take time to search for the Bouton’s Snake-eyed Skink, a rare lizard found only at Black Rock in South Africa, and the unique Beach Medlar shrub, another species exclusive to this area.

 

​Once you’ve had your fill of beach time, we transfer inland to Hlabasimhlope Monument and Heritage Site, your home for the night. This community-run stay, created by Eugene Tembe of the Royal Tembe clan, offers warm Zulu hospitality. Twin-share rooms, open-air showers with rolling hill views, and a cash bar set the scene for a relaxed evening. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and shisa-nyama, then settle in for a well-earned rest.