Ponta do Ouro FAQ, Mozambique

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Ponta do Ouro FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique

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  1. Is there a fuel station in Ponta do Ouro?

    Yes, there is a fuel station in Ponta do Ouro, although its best to fill up your tank in Manguzi (town en-route and just before the Mozambique / Kosi Bay Border) because there has been cases in Ponta do Ouro where the fuel has been contaminated.

    Click here to see our Pictorial Mozambique Map which indicates where you can find fuel stations. The "F" icon indicates a fuel station.

    Fuel is cheaper in their local currency (meticais) compared to rands (or dollars). We suggest you fill up before entering Mozambique's borders and fuel is more expensive the further north you travel!

  2. Do I need a 4x4 to get to Ponta do Ouro?

    [UPDATED] No, good news - there is now a new tarmac road that leads to the center of Ponta do Ouro however, a 4x4 is still necessary to navigate through other sandy trails leading out of the Ponta do Ouro village if that's the direction you are heading to or would like to explore other areas further by vehicle. Please enquire with the place you're staying with to confirm if a 4x4 is required to reach their gates.

    Note: You can drive up to the Mozambican Border in a regular 2WD without the need of high ground clearance where there is secure overnight parking areas on both the South African and Mozambican side of the border for you to park your vehicle during your stay in Ponta do Ouro at approximately R50 - R60 per night (price is subject to change).

    Skelm's Parking (South African side): +27 82 624 6518
    Part-it Ponta (Mozambican side): +258 84 580 8525

    Transfers services from the Mozambican Border to Ponta do Ouro via 4x4 are offered at a fee (approximately R200 per person return) but please get in touch with the following contacts below for clarification. Check with the lodge that you are staying at, if they provide a transfer service from the Border to Ponta do Ouro!

    Alfonso: +258 84 769 9708 or
    Sandra: +258 84 731 9049 or
    Izak: +258 84 200 3717

    We always recommend you enter Mozambique in a 4x4 because you won't be limited to where you can travel as well as the possibility of getting stuck. Note: Some borders require a 4x4 to cross. Read more about the border you are travelling through here: Mozambique Borders & Times.

    For soft / loose sand driving, we recommend you deflate your tire pressures between 1 ➜ 1.4 bar.

  3. Can you drive on the beach in Ponta do Ouro?

    Most of the beaches in Mozambique and Ponta do Ouro are strictly forbidden to drive on and you can receive a hefty fine if caught doing so. You are only allowed to drive on beaches within designated areas to launch your boat or sea vessel. Depending on where you're travelling to, please ask authorities, the manager of the lodge or a knowledgeable local resident of the area before attempting to drive on any beach.

    Only conservancy officials are given more freedom to drive on the beaches to perform routine checkups on the coast's fauna and flora. This doesn't mean you can drive where they can.

    We also strongly advise when travelling along Mozambique's roads that you keep on the beaten track and not venture off-road.

  4. What time does the Mozambique border open at Ponta do Ouro / Kosi Bay?

    Opening times are from 08:00 - 17:00 / 7 days a week. Be at the border early because during the holiday period, there can be a large queue of cars waiting to get through the border. Take this into account when timing your travel to Ponta do Ouro. Note: DO NOT BE LATE! Plan your trip wisely so that you do not get to the border too late as the border closes 5pm sharp!

  5. How far and how long does it take to get to the Mozambique border at Ponta do Ouro / Kosi Bay?

    Distance from Johannesburg to Mozambique border at Ponta do Ouro / Kosi Bay is approx. 630km (5-6 hour journey - all depending on weather, road constructions and conditions etc.)

    Distance from Durban to Mozambique border at Ponta do Ouro / Kosi Bay is approx. 460km (4-5 hour journey - all depending on weather, road constructions and conditions etc.)

  6. Directions from Johannesburg / Pretoria to Ponta do Ouro:

    The best route is to go along the N17 to Bethal and Ermelo, onto the N2 past Piet Retief, past Pongola, turn left just after the Pongolapoort / Jozini Dam off the N2 highway. Drive though the mountain pass and over the Jozini Dam wall. Follow signs to 'Kosi Bay' and 'Border Post'. Stop over at Manguzi, where you can fill up with petrol and get basic supplies.

  7. Directions from Durban to Ponta do Ouro:

    From Durban, Travel North along the N2 highway, past Richards Bay, Mtubatuba and the St Lucia turn-off (don't take this turn-off).

    Approximately 50km from the St Lucia turn-off, turn right onto the R22, (into and past Hluhluwe) for approximately 130km where you will reach a t-junction (R22 ends).

    Turn right and follow this road (don't forget to stopover at Manguzi en-route for fuel and supplies - see tip above) for approximately 40km where you will eventually reach the Kosi bay Border.

  8. Directions from Durban to Ponta do Ouro (scenic route):

    From Durban, Travel North along the N2 highway, past Richards Bay, Mtubatuba and the St Lucia turn-off. When you reach Mkuze, continue 10km further along the N2 and then turn right (look out for signs going to Jozini Dam Wall).

    This route take you through the scenic mountain pass which overlooks the Jozini Dam. Continue travelling on this road (don't turn right into D1823 road) until you go through the town of Jozini (fuel and supplies can be bought here) where you must keep left which will take you over the Jozini Dam wall. Once you go over the dam wall, continue to travel straight (don't turn right into the D1836 road).

    Follow this road until you reach a T-junction. Turn Right onto the P522 and stay on this road for approximately 73km (don't take any left or right turns during this stretch) where you will eventually pass Manguzi (another stopover for fuel and supplies) and reach the Kosi bay Border.

  9. Can I hire a 4x4 in Ponta do Ouro?

    No, there is no car rental services in Ponta do Ouro - only in main towns and cities in Mozambique.

  10. Are there Banks or ATMS in Ponta do Ouro?

    Yes, there is a bank with ATMs that only accept Visa Credit Cards.

    Be prepared and withdraw a sufficient amount of money either in the country you are travelling from and / or in large cities and towns in Mozambique to avoid inconveniences. Please remember to always keep your money in a safe and discreet place

  11. Are there credit card facilities in Ponta do Ouro?

    We kindly advise you ask and confirm with the venue you're staying at or visiting if they offer credit card facilities prior to taking on their services. Otherwise cash is ONLY accepted in small shops and markets, so it's important to have cash on-hand.

  12. I want to avoid roaming fees. Can I buy a Mozambican sim card in Ponta do Ouro?

    Yes, both Ponta do Ouro & Ponta Malongane (villages are 7km apart) have shops where one can purchase sim cards + data.

  13. Is there a shop or market where I can buy groceries and supplies in Ponta do Ouro?

    Yes, there is 1 shopping centre in Ponta do Ouro, which has all the basics.

    We also advise that you buy and take your own vacuum packed meat (if feasible) for the first night or 2 (if you are going to be self catering) in a cooler box with ice. Please see our Duty Free & Customs page for more information. Check with the lodge if they sell ice or if they have a freezer to store your meat during your stay.

  14. Is Ponta do Ouro a malaria area and do I need to take anti-malaria medication?

    Yes, Mozambique as a whole is a malaria risk area / country. We recommend you take precautions and visit your nearest doctor (you need a prescription for anti-malaria medication) to prescribe you with what's recommended before you leave for Mozambique.

    It is strongly advised that you take other prophylactics like insect repellent sprays, mosquito coils, light long sleeve tops and bottoms to further prevent bites (especially during late afternoons, evenings and mornings).

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See Holiday Destinations Near Ponta do Ouro:

The area of Ponta do Ouro is characterized under: Beach Getaways Diving & Snorkeling Festivity Lakeside & Dams Peace & Tranquillity

Ponta do Ouro Reviews thus far:

If you have been to Ponta do Ouro before, we'd appreciate you share your experiences, tips and suggestions. Please rate and write your review below ...

Ponta do Ouro

A very popular holiday destination only a 5 / 6 hours drive from Durban or Johannesburg. Welcome to Ponta do Ouro (also Ponta Mamoli & Ponta Malongane - all within 17kms of each other) located just outside the Kosi Bay / Ponta do Ouro border post of South Africa.

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Quick Tips
Booking early is crucial !!

If you are serious about planning a holiday in Mozambique for Easter, the school holidays or during the Christmas festive season and New Year, then we highly suggest you start placing enquiries a few months in advance to avoid dissapointment. Eg: Start enquiring no later than October for the December holidays.

Believe it or not, people start enquiring as early as January for the December holidays.

Looking for border information?

Need to know what documents are required at Mozambique's border as well as other important information? Click here (opens in new tab) for all the details ...

The "From" (starting) rates ...

Remember, some establishments charge either per unit or per person sharing. If the rate is per unit, then you'll see we have conveniently divided the rate to what-it-would-be per person sharing on their advert under the "Rates" tab.

Use the Currency Converter tool

Some establishments charge in different currencies such as the US Dollar, South African Rands or Mozambican Meticais (Mt).
So we've provided a handy currency converter tool at the bottom left-hand side of your screen (or under 'Useful Tools' if you're on a mobile device) to convert these currencies into yours.

Explore beyond

Use our Mozambique Pictorial Map to find other amazing places you've never heard of before whether it be close to where you're looking or further beyond. There are so many "hidden gems" in Mozambique than just the usual spots.

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Categories Explained

For better understanding, we have put together a brief summary guide of what each category means and to also give you an idea of what each associated icon refers to when you see them on listings & adverts.

Listed in alphabetical order

Backpackers Lodge:

Those who are on a tight budget should keep a lookout for this category icon. This type of establishment offers dormitory (shared) bedroom accommodation with other "Backpackers" generally using either single beds or bunk beds with a communal kitchen and shared ablutions.

Bar On-Site:

Meaning the venue has its own bar on-site with staff serving alcohol/non-alcohol beverages and perhaps "pub-grub" included. They may offer satellite TV for bar patrons to follow the latest sporting fixtures live and may also host live music on certain days / evenings.

Bed & Breakfast:

If an establishment has this icon, this means they either include breakfast in their rates or offer the opportunity for you to choose to include breakfast during your stay which is usually served to guests in an on-site breakfast room dinette or restaurant. Some B&B's offer basic / light (continental) breakfasts, Full English breakfasts or buffet style breakfast options.

Campsite / Glamping:

Either they offer camping grounds for you to pitch your own tent if on a tight budget and / or they have their own pre-setup tents for you to camp in, some offering private facilities (aka "Glamping") within their tents such as beds, a fridge, sofa and bathroom.

Conference Venue:

This means the establishment has a dedicated hall room specially arranged and equipped with most facilities to host important business meetings, teambuilding events or any other occasion alike.

Disabled Friendly Accommodation:

Goes without saying. Any establishment marked with this icon and listed under this category offers facilities for those who have reduced mobility. They may have basic facilities for these conditions or advanced. Kindly enquire with them directly for more information and/or specific requirements you may need.

Dive Charter:

These are dive centres who are a team of qualified dive instructors (PADI which means Professional Association of Diving Instructors) offering SCUBA diving lessons for clients and excursions to some of the best dive sites in the region for an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Eco Lodges:

Environmentally friendly establishments built by local communities using naturally sourced / non-toxic materials with the objective of protecting the surrounding habitat. These types of lodges range from rustic bush and beach to luxury accommodation. Not only does this movement protect the environment, but it also helps support local families.

Fishing Charter:

This means the associated business offers professional paid-for deep sea fishing charters / outings and excursions for those fishing enthusiasts (and for newbies). They generally have a fully equipped fishing boat and all the fishing gear ready for clients to bait up and cast a line. Their expertize, knowledge and experience will reward you with some of the best fishing spots for an action packed deep sea fishing experience.

For Sale:

If you're looking to invest or buy property in Mozambique, keep an eye out for this category for the latest in the property market.

Full Board Accommodation:

Full Board means breakfast, lunch and dinner (also known as "All Inclusive"). If a venue is listed under this category, then they either offer guests the choice of a full board meal plan during their stay or their rates by default include full board meals. a lot of these establishments will have private personal chefs serving guests top class cuisine.

Group Accommodation:

Because this is a popular search and request amongst many, we have created this specific category for exactly that - group accommodation which is very much the same as our Holiday Homes category. These are establishments that can cater and accommodate for large groups of 8 people and up in the same house / unit offering most self catering facilities as if you are "home away from home".

Guest House:

Similar to a typical B&B, a Guest House is usually a private house offering very few accommodation units all within the main building structure (or some seperately). Some serve home cooked meals within their in-house dining room specially catered to seat all their guests and offer a lounge area where fellow travellers can interact, socialize and share stories.

Holiday Home:

This type of accommodation is usually ideal for large groups of people going on holiday being a "home away from home" with numerous bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen for your self catering needs, lounge, toilets, braai/BBQ area, some with a swimming pool and some offering exclusive privacy.

Honeymoon / Romantic Accommodation:

Very self-explanatory. A venue will be listed under this category if they offer a specific luxury, private honeymoon suite or because our admin has "hand-picked" the establishment to be perfect for such an occasion based on their location and facilities offered. However, you are the best judge when it comes to planning that special getaway with your loved one anyway. Pssst ... and it doesn't have to be expensive either to enjoy, right?!

Hotel:

A hotel is generally a large premises that can accommodate a large amount of guests in many adjacent rooms grading from standard 2 sleeper units to "executive" luxury suites offering more in-room space and facilities. They generally have a restaurant and bar on-site for all day meals and drinks (quite often offered on a buffet dining basis). Other on-site facilities may include a swimming pool, gym, spa, in/outdoor entertainment area for kids, a conference / wedding room for meetings / ceremonies and a small shop.

Restaurant / Personal Chef(s) On-Site:

This indicates that the establishment has a small / large restaurant on-site for their guests (they may also accept walk-ins for non-guests) or they have on-board catering staff serving guests in their own private space or in a designated dining area.

Self Catering:

This type of establishment offers guests facilities required to cater / cook on their own terms whether it be within a holiday home for example or on communal grounds.

Spa:

This means the establishment has spa facilities and services offered to guests who are looking for personal treatments during their vacation.

Tours & Safaris:

These business services can range from swimming with dolphins, horse riding, city tours, boat tours, island tours, dhow tours to game drives and more. You'll have to click on their advert to find out more and what they have to offer.

Wedding Venue:

This means, the venue has all the on-site facilities and catering services to host large or small weddings and ceremonies. Depending on the size of the wedding, some may have enough units to accommodate all wedding guests.