Explore the Elephant Coast

Adventure starts at our doorstep

Mashobs Guest House sits in the far north of KwaZulu-Natal's Elephant Coast — a wild, water-rich corner of Maputaland where lake systems, sand forests and the warm Indian Ocean meet. Here's what's waiting just beyond your door.

Your base in Maputaland

One comfortable stay, an entire region to discover

Whether you're crossing into Mozambique, diving the reefs at Sodwana, tracking elephants at Tembe or drifting through the Kosi Bay lakes, Mashobs gives you a clean, secure and central place to rest and regroup between adventures.

Where to go

The highlights of the far north

Nearby · a local treasure

Kosi Bay

A breathtaking system of four interconnected lakes flowing to a crystal-clear estuary mouth. Snorkel among tropical fish, watch the centuries-old traditional Tsonga fish traps at work, and swim in some of the clearest water on the South African coast. A must-see just a short drive from Mashobs.

Snorkelling Estuary & lakes Fish traps Boat trips
Short drive · Big Five

Tembe Elephant Park

Home to some of the largest tuskers left in Africa, Tembe protects a rare tract of pristine sand forest and the full Big Five. Join a guided game drive and look out for the legendary big-tusked bulls that make this one of the great elephant destinations of the continent.

Big Five Giant tuskers Guided drives Sand forest
Day trip · ocean

Sodwana Bay

One of the world's top scuba destinations, with warm water, vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life — from turtles and rays to seasonal whale sharks. Beyond diving, it's superb for deep-sea fishing, snorkelling and long walks on golden Indian Ocean beaches.

Scuba diving Coral reefs Deep-sea fishing Beaches
Short drive · birding

Ndumo Game Reserve

A birding paradise of pans, wetlands and fever-tree forests, home to hippos, crocodiles and more than 400 bird species. Compact and richly scenic, Ndumo is a favourite among photographers and nature lovers exploring the Maputaland corner.

400+ birds Wetlands Hippos & crocs Fever trees
Minutes away · gateway

Mozambique Border

Mashobs is the ideal overnight stop before crossing at the Kosi Bay border post into Ponta do Ouro and southern Mozambique. Arrive the evening before, rest well, and start your crossing early and refreshed — with secure parking while you settle in.

Kosi Bay post Ponta do Ouro Early starts Secure parking
Getting around

Distances from Mashobs

Approximate driving distances from our door. Roads in the far north vary, so times are a guide — WhatsApp us and we'll help you plan the easiest route.

Destination Approx. distance Good for
Kosi Bay Mouth Short drive Snorkelling & lakes
Mozambique border post Minutes away Cross-border travel
Tembe Elephant Park Short drive Big Five game drives
Ndumo Game Reserve Short drive Birding & wetlands
Sodwana Bay Day trip Diving & beaches

Planning a route with several stops? Send it to us on WhatsApp and we'll help you sequence your days.

Things to do

Ways to spend your days

Water

Snorkel & swim

Explore the clear estuary waters and lake systems around Kosi Bay.

Ocean

Scuba & fishing

Dive world-class reefs or head out for deep-sea fishing at Sodwana Bay.

Wildlife

Game drives

Track elephants and the Big Five at Tembe, or go birding at Ndumo.

Culture

Local heritage

See the traditional fish traps and experience warm Maputaland hospitality.

Coast

Beach days

Unwind on the golden, uncrowded beaches of the warm Indian Ocean.

Ask us

Route planning

Tell us your plans and we'll help you map the easiest way around.

Mashobs Guest House at night with secure covered parking
24hrFront desk & check-in
Why stay here

The perfect base for exploring the Elephant Coast

A comfortable, central place to rest between adventures means you get more out of every day in Maputaland — arrive late, leave early, and always come back to a clean, secure room.

  • Central to Kosi Bay, Tembe, Sodwana, Ndumo and the border post
  • Secure, gated property with covered parking for early starts
  • Self-catering kitchenettes — perfect after a long day out
  • 24-hour front desk for late arrivals and early departures
  • Local hosts happy to help you plan routes and activities
WhatsApp Call