Benguerra Island Lodge
Benguerra Island Lodge is situated in the Bazaruto Archipelago just off the Mozambique coast, close to its south eastern border with South Africa. Benguerra Island is approximately seven miles by three miles, and was declared a national park in 1971. The lodge has recently re-opened after an extensive rebuild and refurbishment. Children of all ages are welcome.
Accommodation & Facilities
The two cabanas and ten casinhas are spread along the golden sandy shoreline and have gorgeous views over the sparking ocean. Set under thatched roofs the rooms all boast elegant four-poster beds, comfortable day beds, spacious indoor bathrooms and an outdoor shower. Light and airy decoration combines tropical chic with a distinct African feel and reminders of the area’s Portuguese heritage. Outside are cool plunge pools and vast wooden verandahs which provide the ideal spot for starlit dinners. The three bedroom Casa Familia is ideal for families and has a master bedroom with a lounge area and interleading rooms on each side. The Casa Familia is configured for four adults and two children however two additional children’s beds can be added on request.
The lodge’s welcoming guest areas offer views of a lush tropical garden toward the sea beyond, and comfortable loungers are scattered in shady spots around the swimming pool. A traditional dhow has been cleverly converted into the perfect setting for an alfresco meal by the waters’ edge.
Eating & Sleeping
A children’s menu is available and there is a special sitting at 7pm for children under the age of 12 years (children under the age of 12 are not permitted in the bar area in the evening). Childminders (normally the au pair, but butlers are also available to asist) are available at a rate of US$5 per hour. Advance notice is required so please book on day of arrival.
Activities & Wildlife
Most of the activities at Benguerra Island Lodge are water based. Both snorkelling and scuba diving on the reef offer the opportunity to appreciate the sheer unspoilt beauty and variety of the marine life here. Castaway picnics can be arranged at secluded sites and there is good birdlife to be enjoyed along the tideline and the freshwater lakes. Sunset dhow cruises, fishing, village visits and horse riding are also on offer to guests.
Specifically for children
Activities for children include:
• Treasure hunts
• Building sand castles
• Baking in the lodge kitchen with the chef
• An array of beach games
• Snorkelling in the lodge pool
• Hand-line fishing from a dhow or the beach
• Horse-riding including special riding excursions for children under six years
• Stand-up paddle boarding
• Sea kayaking and sunset dhow cruise – children of all ages welcome
• Scuba diving – minimum age ten years
Age restrictions vary according to experience and requested activity but all are at the lodge manager’s discretion.
