South Africa’s Kosi Bay: Best Season to Watch Turtle Nesting (November to March)

Kosi Bay, nestled along South Africa’s pristine Indian Ocean coastline, offers one of the most magical wildlife encounters on the continent. Each year from November to March, this remote paradise becomes a living sanctuary for Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles, giving travelers a compelling reason to embark on a meaningful, nature-rich journey.

From November to December, guided night tours offer an exceptional chance to witness nesting females emerging from the warm Indian Ocean, hauling themselves onto the beach to carve nests and lay their eggs  —  an ancient ritual unchanged for millions of years.

Then, from January to March, the coastline comes alive with an equally breathtaking sight: tiny hatchlings erupting from the sand and racing toward the shimmering ocean. Watching dozens of newborn turtles scramble toward the waves is both enchanting and a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation.

For travelers seeking a transformative experience, Kosi Bay’s turtle season is one of South Africa’s most unforgettable natural wonders  —  a rare encounter with life, resilience, and the wild beauty of the Indian Ocean.