PLACE OF MIRACLES AND WONDER

Utshwayelo, Kosi Bay

Thongaland constitutes a tiny sliver of paradise where the Elephant Coast nudges up against Mozambique. This section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park lies at the heart of the Thonga community, and the Utshwayelo Kosi Mouth Lodge and Camp is partly owned and run by the self-same warm-hearted locals. There can be few places on Earth with such a kick-ass combo of culture, cuisine and allout adventure on tap. Paddle out onto the estuary with Thongaland Travel to kayak amid ancient fish traps, while fish eagles, flamingos and palm-nut vultures cruise the sky. Join a trail run or a mountain bike ride, and maybe add an afternoon snorkel or surf session – otherwise, just chill in your hammock with an ice-cold 2M beer. isimangaliso.com

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