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. | Rich pearl beds prized by the Queen of Sheba; beautiful kidnapped Indian princesses; infamous slave traders; shipwrecks and illicit German gold… the stories abound in the largely unwritten history of these islands… | | It is supposed that the first visitors to the Bazaruto Archipelago were ancient Phoenicians in search of Pearls… since then similar dreams of wealth and power have attracted others to this historically conflicted part of Africa. | | Now though there is a different dream attracting visitors… the dream of an unspoiled, undeveloped and unpopulated paradise. Where the beaches are a dazzling white, the ocean is warm and blue, and the diverse environment is pristine. |
| 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. | | 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. |
Along the historical Moçambique channel lies tropical Ilha de Benguerra. It is here that Benguerra Lodge – a unique and incomparable African island paradise – is washed by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. 
The Lodge is small and intimate and offers genuine hospitality, personalised service and an intimate knowledge of the natural environment. It has a rich East African/Arabic feel – evinced in both the décor, and the unique and delectable food. The rooms all merge naturally into the surrounding forest and are only moments from the gorgeous silver-white beach of Benguerra Bay.
Benguerra is passionate about conservation and dedicated to the involvement of the local community in conserving this idyllic corner of the world. This is barefoot luxury at its very best!
It is no wonder that Benguerra Lodge is one of the most sought after African island destinations for the discerning international traveller…
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.
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
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. There are three different kinds of accommodation at Benguerra – each with their unique characteristics and attractions. The Cabanas
There are Cabanas 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:
- King-sized bed
- Large bathroom with bath, shower and outdoor shower
- Mosquito net and overhead fan
- Private deck with jacuzzi/plunge pool and sun loungers
- Mini-bar
- Tea & coffee making facilitie
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
The Villa
The Villa 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.
The Villa has: Two double bedrooms Mosquito nets and overhead fans En-suite bathrooms with bath and shower Intimate lounge and dining area, fitted with hand carved mahogany furniture Personal chef Private wooden deck with a swimming pool Private garden and beach access
There’s much to discover on and around the Island. On foot or in open land rovers, 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 & Snorkelling
Fishing
Dhow cruises
Castaway picnics
Landrover trips
Bird watching
Island walks
Village visits
Sea kayaking
Yacht day trips
Horse Riding
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