&Beyond Benguerra Island

&Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge brings you to a crescent of beach within Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, with protected indigenous forest behind you and the Indian Ocean out front. Wake to fishermen setting out in traditional dhows, wander barefoot towards the water or follow the island inland, where dunes, lakes and small communities reveal another side of Benguerra. The setting makes it easy to slip between doing plenty and doing very little at all.

You might spend the morning snorkelling over Two Mile Reef, then trade fins for a kayak or saddle up for a horseback ride along the shoreline. Later, climb a high dune, head inland in search of flamingos around the lakes or sail into sunset aboard a dhow. Back at the lodge, spend time in the library, browse the curio shop, book a massage or settle beside the dhow-inspired bar with a drink in hand. For a deeper connection, community visits and Oceans Without Borders projects introduce you to the locals and marine conservation work connected to the island.

Your thatched Cabana or Casinha opens towards the ocean, with a private pool, shaded sala and hanging daybed waiting just beyond the doors. Woven and wooden details and Portuguese influences give the interiors a distinctly Mozambican feel, while deep indoor baths and outdoor showers make sure that rinsing off after the beach is an experience in itself. Families* can spread out in Casa Familia, with interleading bedrooms, a cosy lounge, pool and private beach access. After a day in the water, stretch out in your sala, pour a drink from your personal bar or wander down to the sand for one last look at the sea.

*For family travel: Children of all ages are welcome.