Useful Information & Local Guide
To ensure your stay at Khaya Kosi is seamless and enjoyable, please take note of the following essential information, resort rules, and local regulations.
π Arrival & Local Amenities
Check-In & Check-Out: Guests may check in from 14:00 PM on the day of arrival and must vacate the house by 10:00 AM on the day of departure.
Supplies & Fuel: Petrol, Diesel, ATMs, and general provisions are available in Kwangwanase/Manguzi, located just 12 km from the lodge.
Firewood: Firewood can be purchased directly inside the lodge or from the local roadside communities outside.
πͺ΅ Kosi Bay Reserve Regulations
Gate Hours: The reserve gates are strictly open from 06:00 AM to 18:00 PM all year round.
Water Safety: Due to the active presence of crocodiles and hippos, swimming is strictly prohibited anywhere in the Lake system.
Water Sports: No water-skiing, yachting, jet-skiing, or other motorized water sports are permitted in the Lake system.
Quad Bikes: Quad bikes are strictly prohibited as they are off-road vehicles and are not licensed for public roads.
Firearms: All firearms must be declared immediately upon your arrival.
π£ Fishing & Bait Permits
Permits Required: A valid fishing permit is required to fish within the Lake System and along the beaches of the Maputaland Marine Reserve. Please adhere strictly to size and bag limits.
Marine Sanctuary (No-Take Zone): Fishing and all other recreational activities are strictly prohibited in the Marine Sanctuary stretching from Beacon No. 8 (Bhanga Nek) south to Beacon No. 9 (Dog Point).
Spearfishing: Spearfishing is strictly forbidden anywhere within the Lake System, including Kosi Mouth.
Bait Collection (Sand Prawns): Pumping sand prawns requires a general bait license (or the license holder must be physically present). The daily legal limit is 50 sand prawns.
Where to Buy Permits: Permits are not sold at the Kosi Bay reserve office. They must be purchased beforehand at your local Post Office or at the Manguzi Post Office (16 km away).
Manguzi Post Office Hours: Weekdays 08:00 β 16:00 | Saturdays 08:00 β 12:00.
π€ Boating Regulations (SAMSA Compliance)
Skipper Requirements: Fishermen must provide their own boats. In accordance with SAMSA regulations, only individuals holding a valid Sheltered Waters Skippers Ticket may launch.
Launch Protocol: The official launch register at the site must be signed and completed. All vessels must be registered and fully compliant with SAMSA Safety Regulations.
Inter-Lake Channels: All boats navigating the narrow channel between Lake 2 and Lake 3 must travel dead slow at an idle speed while keeping to the right-hand bank. This prevents wake erosion. Failure to comply will result in being asked to leave the reserve.
πΎ Pet Policy
At Palm Tree Lodge: Pets may be allowed on the lodge premises by prior permission only. Dangerous or aggressive animals will strictly not be permitted.
Inside the Reserve: Pets are strictly forbidden inside the boundaries of the nature reserve at all times.
π Community & Cultural Respect
We pride ourselves on maintaining excellent relations with our local community.
Fish Traps: Please do not visit, touch, or interfere with any traditional fish traps without explicit prior consent from the community.
Photography: Kindly respect the privacy of local community members and always ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals.
π¦ Health & Safety (Malaria)
Kosi Bay is situated in a low-to-moderate risk malaria area, particularly during the wet, hot summer months. We recommend keeping doors and windows closed at dusk and dawn, using mosquito repellent, and consulting your doctor before your trip regarding prophylactic medicationΒ