Benguerra Lodge – Bazaruto Island – Mozambique

Overview

Mozambique’s Benguerra Island, just 15 kilometres from the mainland town of Vilanculos, is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Benguerra Lodge, on the island’s north-west coast, is positioned on a private bay, fringed with tropical palms. The lodge merges into the last remaining tract of forest on the island, and is encircled by ribbons of shimmering beaches, colourful coral reefs, and sparkling turquoise waters.

The remote and intimate Benguerra Lodge is stylish and luxurious, yet retains its rustic charm. The Moroccan-style buildings with terracotta walls and blends of ochres, reds, golds, and oranges merge harmoniously with the timber and thatch, creating a distinctively romantic East African ambience. Ecological preservation and conservation of the island’s heritage is a priority at this idyllic beach destination. Personalised service and warm hospitality assure even the most discerning guests a memorable getaway. Ideal for solo travellers, couples looking for an idyllic romantic getaway and families who enjoy sumptuous surroundings.

Accommodation

Benguerra Lodge offers accommodation in two chalets, ten casitas, and one villa. All of the options offer spectacular beach views through the shuttered windows and doors.

The smallest of the options are the romantic chalets, each with a queen-size bed, a large en-suite bathroom with separate bath, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck with a Jacuzzi plunge pool.

The stone and thatch casitas, set along the beach, are much more spacious. These open plan units have a sumptuous lounge area, large sleeping area, and en-suite bathroom with a burnished copper bathtub. Each casita has both indoor and outdoor showers, a vast timber deck with a Jacuzzi plunge pool, and a secluded thatched gazebo for starlit dinners. Each Casita comes with its own butler, who helps with organising activities and any special requests.

The Villa Chibuene, located to ensure seclusion and privacy, has two bedrooms, both en-suite with burnished copper bathtubs and indoor and outdoor showers.  The lounge and dining areas are beautifully furnished with hand-carved mahogany furniture. The villa offers a lush private garden and swimming pool, and a thatched sala with magnificent sea views. A personal chef prepares all meals.

Wildlife

Diving off the reefs of Benguerra Island reveals an abundance of marine life. Batfish, turtles, whale sharks and dolphins may reveal themselves at the surface, and beneath the water exotic reef fish abound, such as Bannerfish, Moorish idols, Butterfly fish, Blue striped snappers, Oriental and Barred sweetlips, Boxfish, Goldies, and Trigger fish can be seen moving amongst the bright sponges and corals. Moray eels and Ribbontail rays are found near the sandy ocean floor, and White-tip, Black-tip, Grey reef or giant Sleeping sharks are sighted on the reef’s perimeter. The sight of a humpback whale breaching in deeper waters is awe-inspiring.

Over 130 bird species have been recorded on Benguerra Island. Wading birds such as plovers and sandpipers proliferate on the shores fringing the island. Thousands of Palearctic migrants pack the shallow waters during the summer months. They include waders, swallow, shrikes and warblers. Special sightings include the elusive Crab Plover, Olive bee-eater, Green coucal and Narina trogon. Cuckoos, robins, fly catchers, and the diminutive Pygmy Kingfisher are also visitors to the island.

More Info

Children
Children of all ages are welcome at Benguerra Lodge.
Children 0 – 5 years, sharing with 1 or 2 adults stay free of charge .
Children 6 – 16 years, sharing with 1 or 2 adults 50% of full adult rate.
Cots subject to availability.

Excludes:
Conservancy fee, landing fees and airport taxes

Directions

Access:

SA Airlink and LAM both operate direct flights from Johannesburg to Vilanculos, while LAM also runs flights between Maputo and Vilanculos. This is followed by a short helicopter or fixed-wing transfer to the lodge.