Maputaland is a part of South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal, that is tucked in between Swaziland, Mozambique, and the endless white beaches of the warm Indian Ocean coast. It is a vast remote and magical place of shimmering lakes, forests, bush and pristine seashore.
Maputaland includes along its coast places like Sodwana Bay (also known as Jesser Point) in the south, Lake Sibaya, Mabibi, Lalanek, Rocktail Bay, Black Rock, Dog Point, Bhanga Nek, the Kosi Lake sytem, and Kosi Mouth as the most northern point.
The main town in Maputaland is called Kosi Bay. This is a misnomer because there is no bay and the town known as Kosi Bay is still 30 km from the coast. Kosi Bay is also known as Manguzi situated in the KwaNgwanase district. Still more confusing the region is marketed as the Elephant Coast.
Tourism Establishments around Kosi Bay is distributed around the North or South side of the lakes. To go from north to south and visa versa takes around a hour in travelling time on the 4X4 roads even although the distance is only 25km.
From Johannesburg
Approximately 6.5 - 7hrs
From Johannesburg, head towards Piet Retief and then Pongola. Proceed through Pongola towards the town of Mkuze on the N2. 10kms before Mkuze turn left to Jozini - as you leave Jozini proceed over the dam wall. After 45km at a T-junction turn right towards "Kwangwanase". Proceed for another 47km past Tembe Elephant Park (bad potholes, animals on road, be careful) - towards KwaNgwanase (Manguzi).
For non 4×4 guests :- Drive into KwaNgwanase (Manguzi ), through the town and near the end, look out for the Total Garage on your left handside.
From Durban
Approximately 4.5 hours
From Durban, proceed on the N2 North out of Durban bypassing Richards Bay, Empangeni and Mtubatuba and head towards the town of Hluhluwe. Turn off the N2 towards Hluhluwe, proceeding through the town until you reach the last traffic circle. Turn left towards Mbazwane/Sodwana Bay and proceed for 0.7 km and turn right again towards Sodwana Bay/Mbazwane. Shortly after turning right you will cross over a railway line. Proceed for 87 km bypassing Mbazwane on your right. Proceed straight through the circles following the signs to "Coastal Forest Reserve" and pass. Proceed for 46km km after Mbazwane (passing the Mseleni turn-off) and turn right at the circle Kosi Bay / KwaNgwanase sign.
For non 4×4 guests :- Drive into KwaNgwanase (Manguzi ), through the town and near the end, look out for the Total Garage on your left handside.
