Benguerra Island Lodge (Bazaruto Archipelago) Mozambique


 
Benguerra Island Lodge (Bazaruto Archipelago) Mozambique - www.africansafaris.travel

Location:

Benguerra is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, which broke away from the mainland thousands of years ago. The island is approximately 55 square kilometers (11km long x 5.5 km wide), and lies 14km offshore. It is famous for its unspoiled white beaches, remarkable dive sites and excellent fishing (subject to a strict “catch & release” policy).

Some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the world is available off Benguerra’s shores with the surrounding coral reefs rich in sea life. The archipelago is one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered Dugong. A pale, voluptuous sea mammal fabled to have made bygone mariners believe in mermaids.

Benguerra Island Lodge (Bazaruto Archipelago) Mozambique - www.africansafaris.travel

 

Inland, Benguerra Island comprises forest, savannah, freshwater lakes and wetland eco-systems that sustain a diverse population of fauna and flora. Fresh water crocodiles can be found in the three lakes, bearing testimony to the island’s mainland past. The island, which is home to approximately 140 bird species, was declared a National Park in 1971.
Benguerra Lodge and the Bazaruto National Park strive, in conjunction with the community and other related parties, to maintain the diverse and pristine environment for the enjoyment of future generations. Since the inception of the Lodge in 1988, its owners, management and staff have been intricately involved in the ecological preservation and conservation of the island’s heritage. The co-operation of the island’s local community and the adoption of eco-Tourism and modern conservation practices have already demonstrated numerous benefits.


Location - Benguerra Island (Bazaruto Archipelago) Mozambique - www.africansafaris.travel

 
 
Getting There:

Benguerra Lodge is situated on the protected north-west side of Benguerra Island, which is part of the Bazaruto Archipelago, off the coast of the Moçambique mainland.

Guests fly to the town of Vilanculos, and then on to the island. There are regular flights from:

Johannesburg International Airport & Lanseria International
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit
Chartered flights from neighboring countries are also available on request. Alternatively, guests can drive to Vilanculos.

A representative from Benguerra meets guests at the airport, and escorts them to the helicopter for the Island Transfer. We will organize boat transfers to the Lodge only if the helicopter transfer is not available.

 

 


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Accommodation:

There are three different kinds of accommodation at Benguerra – each with their unique characteristics and attractions.

The Cabanas:

Cabanas are built right on the edge of the beach. Romantic and elegant, the suites offer guests the chance to experience the ultimate island getaway.

The Cabanas each have:

Queen-sized bed with mosquito net
Large bathroom with bath, shower and outdoor shower
Overhead fan
Private deck with jacuzzi/plunge pool and sun loungers
Mini-bar
Tea & coffee making facilities



Benguerra Island Lodge (Bazaruto Archipelago) Mozambique - www.africansafaris.travel

 
 
The Casitas:

A home away from home, where the eco conscious traveller can relax and enjoy the spacious and luxurious comforts to be found in this African Island Paradise. The Casita embraces Benguerra’s unique blend of safari chic and Arabic style.

Each Casita has a Queen size bed with mosquito net
Tastefully appointed lounge area
100m2 of private timber deck with plunge pool
Outdoor dining gazebo for starlit dinners





Benguerra Island Lodge (Bazaruto Archipelago) Mozambique - www.africansafaris.travel

Villa Chibuene:

Villa Chibuene is the epitome of exclusivity. The luxury furnishings and private facilities make it an ideal place for those wanting unsurpassed comfort and privacy, honeymooners and families. A personal chef prepares all meals at the Villa, although the main lodge's dining facilities are also available to Villa guests, if desired.

Villa Chibuene has:

Two double bedrooms (which may be converted into twins)
Mosquito nets and overhead fans
En-suite bathrooms with beautiful copper baths
Outdoor showers with intricate mosaic inlays
Intimate lounge and dining area
Personal chef
Private wooden deck and swimming pool
Direct beach access

 



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Facilities:

The Main Lodge consists of :

Large Reception Area and Gift Shop.
Expansive Lounge and Bar, Dining Room – all with large wooden decks and indoor and outdoor seating areas.
There is also a Swimming Pool and small Spa.
Indulge yourself in countless hours of relaxation under coconut palms, delight in the diversity of birdlife, visit the historic freshwater lakes (and their crocodiles), sail in a traditional Dhow and search the seas for the legendary dugongs... You can choose to do as much, or as little, as you like.




Benguerra Island Lodge - www.africansafaris.travel

Dining at Benguerra

Meals at Benguerra are comprised largely of freshly caught seafood – with delicacies such as prawns, crab and crayfish. Traditional Moçambican cuisine, Portuguese flavours and a variety of delicious dishes make up the daily menus. Breakfast and lunch are buffet affairs, while dinner is a set menu. Guests with special dietary requirements can be individually catered for.
The island and the lodge provide a variety of settings for lunches and dinners which contribute to the magic and romance of the island experience.

Essential items

For more information on what to bring and what to expect from the weather, have a look at the guest information below.

 
Medical assistance

We have comprehensive Medical Rescue Insurance - so should anything happen while you're with us (which it won't) there is no need to worry - we will have you flown to Johannesburg in under 2 hours.

 

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Activities:


There’s much to discover on and around the Island. On foot or in an open Landrover, the choice of how you explore Benguerra Island is entirely up to you. We take great pride in our personal service – and whether you are snorkeling on the Archipelago’s magnificent reefs, or casting a fly from a boat – you will have an experienced guide with you.
Diving & Snorkeling, Fishing
Dhow cruises, Castaway picnics
Landrover trips, Bird watching
Island walks
Village visits
Sea kayaking
Catamaran Cruises
Horse Riding

 

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Community:

Benguerra Island is part of the Bazaruto Archipelago – which is in a National Marine Park (Moçambique’s first), managed by the National Directorate of Conservation Areas within the Ministry of Tourism and supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).

There is a community of approximately 1,000 people on Benguerra Island and a portion of every park fee goes into Trust for these islanders.

The Lodge works very closely with this Community to protect and preserve this idyllic corner of the world. It is understood that without the goodwill and support of the local Community no management strategy for this area can succeed – hence the establishment of a body representing the interests of the Government, the Community and the private sector.

This body is called Khani Kwedho – meaning “Our Home”, and its purpose is to:

Involve the local Community in conservation and environmental initiatives.
Implement projects that will improve the quality of life for the Community
Increase and improve benefits to the Community through responsible eco-Tourism.
Promote sustainable use of natural resources.
Promote and understanding of the mutual benefit inherent in a sustainable relationship between the Community, protected areas and the Tourists who visit the Island. Promote the principle of high value/low volume, and thus low environmental impact, Tourism.

 

  Accommodation Rates:- From $600 per person per night sharing. Please contact us for a quote and suggested itinerary.