Set in the remote region of the Maputuland coast in KwaZulu Natal, Mabibi lies between Lake Sibaya and Sodwana Bay, forming part of the Kosi Bay coastal forest reserve. It's one of Natal's most spectacular coastlines. But what makes it even more enticing is that it is the only tropical dive site in the country and lies alongside Africa's most southern coral reefs - you can understand why ... cont.
Drive to Pongola then proceed on the N2 South towards Mkuze. Approximately 45km from Pongola and 10km before Mkuze turn left towards Jozini. On leaving Jozini take a left turn towards the "Coastal Forest Reserve and Kwangwanase" (signposted), ensuring that you are proceeding over the Pongola dam wall. After 45km at a T-junction turn right towards "Kwangwanase". Proceed for another 47 km and at the circle turn right towards "Coastal Forest Reserve". After 15km turn left onto a dirt road marked as "Coastal Forest Reserve". You will see a large government sign indicating directions to Mabibi, Rocktail Bay etc.It is 4.7km along this road to the Coastal Cashew Factory on your right hand side, where you will be collected. There is a brown and white sign indicating Thonga Beach Lodge – non 4 x 4 car parking. The travelling time is approximately 7.5 hours. Upon reaching the Coastal Cashew Factory, two-wheel drive vehicles will park and guests will be transferred to the lodge in Thonga Beach Lodge vehicles (approximately 1 hour). The parking is secured and the entrance guarded. Please note that we have two transfers per day: 12h00 and 15h00. These transfers have to be pre-booked when confirming your stay. Four-wheel drive vehicles can proceed straight to the lodge following the "Coastal Forest Reserve" and "Thonga Beach Lodge" signs.
Proceed on the N2 North to Hluhluwe. Turn off the N2 towards Hluhluwe, proceeding through the town until you reach the last traffic circle (there will be 4 in total). Turn left towards Mbazwana/Sodwana Bay and proceed for 0.7 km and turn right again towards Sodwana Bay/Mbazwana. Shortly after turning right you will cross over a railway line. Proceed for 87 km bypassing Mbazwana on your right. Proceed straight through the circles following the signs to "Coastal Forest Reserve". Proceed for 33 km after Mbazwana (passing the Mseleni turn-off) turning right onto a dirt road marked as "Coastal Forest Reserve". You will see a large government sign indicating directions to Mabibi, Rocktail Bay etc. It is 4.7km along this road to the Coastal Cashew Factory on your right hand side, where you will be collected. This is sign marked with a brown and white sign. The travelling time is approximately 4.5 hours. Upon reaching the Coastal Cashew Factory, two-wheel drive vehicles will park and guests will be transferred to the lodge in Thonga Beach Lodge vehicles (approximately 1 hour). The parking is secured and the entrance guarded. Please note that we have two transfers per day: 12h00 and 15h00. These transfers have to be pre-booked when confirming your stay. Four-wheel drive vehicles can proceed straight to the lodge following the "Coastal Forest Reserve" and "Thonga Beach Lodge" signs.
• Once you turn off the tar road it is a poor condition sand road so guests must ensure they do not travel this road after 16h00 and exercise caution. Please phone the lodge as you leave Jozini (from the north) or Hluhluwe (from the south) so that we are aware of your whereabouts in time to make any necessary changes to our collection times if you are running late.
• Please also exercise caution along this road and do not stop for strangers. Under no circumstances should guests use the Sibaya Lake road, as there have been security issues along this road in the past.