Situated on the second largest island in the sunny Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of Mozambique, the lodge is set in a protected marine conservation area and offers pristine beaches and unspoiled coral reefs teeming with marine life. Looking out onto a sandy beach and set on a deep lagoon unaffected by the tides, this exclusive beach getaway is ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Surrounded by premier diving sites, the lodge is the gateway to an underwater wonderland for divers, with a rich variety of tropical fish species complemented by Africa’s only population of the rare dugong. The deep Mozambique Channel, which runs alongside the island, is renowned for its game fish and Benguerra Island offers some of the world’s best catch-and-release deep sea fishing and fly fishing opportunities.
While the island is fringed with golden, sandy beaches, its interior is a lush patchwork of forests, wetlands and fresh water lakes. Horse riding trips and island expeditions explore both the coastline and the interior of the island, uncovering traditional culture at the local village and climbing soaring sand dunes.
The Lodge at Benguerra Island
An idyllic luxury island getaway, Benguerra Island lies sheltered within a canopy of indigenous casuarina pine forest, which opens up to panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Looking out onto the calm waters of a secluded bay, the lodge boasts soft, shimmering beach sands, as well as a deep channel that cuts straight out to sea, allowing for swimming right off the beach even at low tide and permitting direct boat access.
Magnificent marine marvels wait in the ocean waters, from mystical dugong to bejewelled tropical fish and mighty marlin and kingfish that delight an angler’s heart.
Light and airy, spacious casinhas and cabanas combine tropical chic with a distinct touch of Africa and the Mozambican coastline’s Portuguese heritage. Wide doors and windows allow for magnificent ocean views and private rim flow pools set on wide wooden decks provide a cool refuge. Colourfully ornamented, a traditional wooden dhow has found its final resting place on the beach,
offering the ideal spot to indulge in an ice cold cocktail or a delicious meal of fresh, fragrant seafood. Local sailing boats carry you out to sea on dhow cruises and the billowing dunes and soft sands invite you to explore the marvels of this extraordinary island. After days filled with discovery, weary muscles relax and recharge under the magical attentions of the masseuses in the massage sala.
CASTAWAY PICNIC
Feel as though your have the island all to yourself as you indulge yourself in a decadent picnic set in one of its most secluded sites. Enjoy magnificent sea views from a sand spit jutting into the ocean or the top of a soaring sand dune and tantalise your taste buds with a selection of delicacies.
SCUBA DIVING
&Beyond Benguerra Island has a fully equipped Dive Centre and offers a full range of diving adventures. If you are an experienced diver, our Dive Master will take you out to explore the waters off the Bazaruto Archipelago and, if you are a novice, our Dive Instructor will introduce you to a whole new world of mystery, wonder and beauty. There are a number of dive sites within easy reach of the island and our Instructor can help you select the most appropriate one based on your diving experience and interests.
HELICOPTER SIGHTSEEING
Experience the beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago from above as you board a helicopter and fly along the Mozambican coastline. Marvel at the crystal clear water and the pristine white beaches of this natural haven.
Additional costs apply
HORSE RIDING SAFARIS
Spend the late afternoon cantering along the water’s edge, explore the island’s hidden tracks or indulge in a gentle wander along miles and miles of endless beaches. Fully in tune with nature, horseback riding is the perfect way to absorb the beauty of Benguerra. Accompanied by a dedicated guide, we offer exceptional trails for all levels, from first-timers to experienced riders.
ISLAND EXPEDITION
Island expeditions are fully customised according to your interests and may include anything from a 30-minute trip to the local school or a two-hour expedition around the island. Explore the lakes and dunes on the northern side of the island, visit the local school and church and interact with the local people in the village. Each drive is accompanied by a local guide with extensive knowledge of the island, who will ensure that you have an authentic local experience.
SNORKELLING
Explore the shallower coastal reefs situated off Benguerra island with the help of a snorkel. Equipment is provided and our guide will show you the best snorkelling spots to see the colourful marine life of the Indian Ocean.
SUNSET DHOW CRUISE
Enjoy a cruise on a traditional wooden sailing vessel known as a dhow. A local skipper will fetch you in the late afternoon and will sail around the calm waters of the bay as the sun sets over the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago.
SWIMMING WITH HORSES
Equine enthusiasts of all ages, and riding levels, will have the memorable opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled Swimming with Horses adventure, on &Beyond Benguerra Island. Dress down for the occasion, in just your swimwear, and ride bareback into azure waters, floating amongst the waves on top of your mount. Expect plentiful splashing, and bouts of laughter, as the horses absolutely love to frolic in the ocean. Afterwards, hop off your steed and allow them to enjoy a well-deserved roll on the beach. This 30 to 45 minute adventure allows for a maximum of 4 guests per swim and is perfect as a standalone activity or can be added after a more extensive horseback exploration of the island. The Swimming with Horses activity is seasonal as well as weather and tide dependent.