Ponta do Ouro
On the southern most point of Mozambique, close to the South African border, lies Ponta do Ouro, a sheltered bay, that has been transformed into a tourist mecca frequented by both national and international visitors. Tales of sunken treasure together with the most spectacular sunrise over the ocean blesses this special point, the Point of Gold.
Some 120km south of Maputo, it’s a hub of tourism activities. A multitude of accommodation venues and eateries depending on your budget and desires will ensure you are well bedded and fed.
Please note, that since the road opened in 2018, the area sees a major influx of tourism during peak season and major public holidays.
Travel to Ponta do Ouro has never been easier! With the new road it's a 2hr trip from Maputo International Airport.
Our closest point of entry is Kosi Bay / Kwanganase border post - Northern KwaZulu Natal. From there the road is tarred all the way to the village.
Low riding vehicles should be aware that most roads are soft and sandy.
Please consult with your accommodation as to normal vehicle accessibility.
Estimated travel times by car from:
-
Johannesburg will take 9-11Hrs.
-
Durban will take 4-5Hrs.
-
Richards Bay will take 3Hrs.
-
Maputo ±2Hrs.
-
Flights into Durban or Richards Bay are possible, after which self drive by hired vehicle or transfer in with service provider (self arranged). Please note transfers are not advisable at night..
-
There are two secure car park areas (SA & Moz side) at R100 p/day for non 4x4 vehicles & busses.
-
If you are bringing your own 4X4 vehicle please clear customs on both SA and Moz sides.
-
Third party fees R250 per vehicle.. Road travellers are encouraged to join drivemoz.
PLEASE NOTE: The road is ONLY tarred to the Market area. Thereafter the roads are sand.
Border allowance
-
Foodstuffs to the value of $US 200.
-
ADULTS are allowed: 1L of spirits 2,5L (3 bottles) of wine 2 cartons (or 400) cigarettes.
Visa Requirements
SADAC passport holders do not require a visa to enter Mozambique. Check visa waivers here www.evisa.gov.mz/waiver
Some foreign passport holders require a visa and this is best obtained prior to arrival in Mozambique and SA (if in transit)..
International passport holders should request as letter of invitation from their accommodation - to be shown on arrival at immigration.. www.evisa.gov.mz.
Tourist visas available at border or airport ±US$50 or at a Mozambique Embassy close to you.
Passports must be valid for 6 months and have at least 2 un-stamped, blank pages.
Duel citizenship - travel on your valid SA passport to avoid visa costs.
Traveling with Children
As from the 1 June 2015, an unabridged birth certificate will be required if traveling with minors under the age of 18 though a South African port of entry.
Please consult home affairs for requirements.
Pick-up Providers
-
Isaac: +258 84 200 3717
-
Joel: +258 87 706 9009
-
1Way Adventures: +258 84 475 2656
-
NorthcoastRunner.co.za
Please note: Transfer companies are not managed or maintained by DERC. It is the visitors responsibility to confirm and settle up payment direct with provider.
Estimated costs:
Kosi Bay Border: R300 p / person return
Maputo Int Airport: R4000 return
Please note: Rates may change at any time.
Conscious Travel
Dolphins and Whales
Swimming with marine mammals is NOT allowed in the reserve unless with one of the permitted operators. Vessels including kayaks are not permitted to approach within 300m.
Jetski's
Limited ONLY to those for fishing and all vessels are to stay 300m from all marine mammals and whales sharks.
Scuba Diving & Chumming
Scuba diving only permitted with a registered operator. The chumming for any species is not permitted.
Turtles
Please do not approach nesting females. Do not touch or handle turtles or hatchlings. Turn off beach front lighting between October and February. Kick down sandcastles and fill in holes when leaving the beach.
Rubbish
Remove you rubbish off the beach. Better yet - every time you leave the beach - pick up 5 pieces of trash for the bon.
Fishing
No bottom fishing or catching of shark permitted. Bill fishing requires a permit. The Reserve supports catch and release.
FireWorks
Not permitted.
Beach
Drinking and driving on the beach is not permitted.
Shells and harvesting
The harvesting of shells, ornimental fish and coral is not permitted. Please do not support the local curios in purchasing animal products
Re-Use
Bring your own shopping bags, water bottle and take-out containers, this way you can reduce the amount of litter generated by tourism.
Sustainable fishuries
Know your seafood. Check out the SASSI forum to get updated red data liust species we should NOT be eating...