Benguerra Island is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. The island is less than a kilometre south of Bazaruto Island. Benguerra Island features high dunes, inland lakes and beautiful beaches where you can relax in peace.
Approximately 900 km north of Maputo; 435 km south of Beira lies the Bazaruto Archipelago, comprising the Benguerra Island. The island was formed from sands that were deposited thousands of years ago from the Limpopo River. The island is approximately 14km away from the African Coastline, and is named after a Local Tribal Chief. Benguerra is 8km long and about 5km wide is how the size of the island. When the tide is low you can see many white sand islands covered in islands.
Flights to Benguerra Island
Visitors can fly to the town of Vilanculos, and then on to the island. A representative from Benguerra is always available to meet guests at the airport and assist with customs and immigration. He then escorts visitors to the island. If the island airstrip is out of commission a boat is organised. Regular flights are from:
1. Johannesburg International Airport & Lanseria International
2. Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit
3. Durban International Airport
Also chartered flights from neighbouring countries are available on request. Alternatively, guests can drive to Vilanculos.
Benguerra Island Weather
Benguerra Island can be extremely hot in summer which is from November through to February. This is also the rainy season with storms seldom lasing longer. Raincoats or waterproof clothing is required during these rainy months. Sunhats and caps are necessary for the hot weather as well as shoes that are suitable for walking on the reefs. For the rest of the time, swimming costumes and light tropical wear is what you need.
Benguerra Island Accommodation
On the Benguerra Island there are three lodges which are
Marlin Lodge ,
Azura Gabriel and
Benguerra Lodge . Chalets on these lodges are air conditioned, have a mosquito screen, en-suite shower, mini bar, 24 hour power, satellite TV and telephone access.
Activities on Benguerra Island
The island has dhows regularly sailing past the island dragging nets, or going to nearby reefs. If you can manage to wake up early you will see the dhows sharing their catch.
164 species of birds are found on the Benguerra Island in the indigenous forest. Sounds of the birds and those of squirrels and monkeys can be heard.
Two miles east of Benguerra, there is a two mile reef that offers the best reef diving in Mozambique with beautiful corals and tropical fish. For snorkelling there is a large protected pool called the Aquarium.
Fishing is also very popular and the lodges host annual big-game fishing competitions. In Mozambique, fishing is closely monitored. Fly rodders can enjoy the luxury of fly fishing boats. Many exotic reef fish are found such as schooling banner fish, moorish idols, butterfly fish, blue striped snappers, barred sweetlips, goldies, trigger fish and hosts of others. Even the bone fish is found in the salt lake waters.
Benguerra lodges have boats that are fully equipped and ready to do deep sea fishing. Each boat is hosted by an experienced skipper who knows the waters intimately.
Benguerra Island is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba diver's. A fully equipped dive school with dive master has been set up for visitors.
After snorkeling you can go to the deserted Pansy Island where you find unique pansy shells.
Marlin season is November to March. Each deep sea fishing boat has the equipment on board for tagging and releasing.
You can enjoy sailing silently and peacefully in the traditional Dhow, which has been used since the days of the Phoenicians. You will glide up to the flamingos or link up with friendly dolphins. You can even catch a glimpse of an elusive dugong. You can as well marvel at the magnificent sunset.
Please Note: Mozambique is a malaria area so it is advisable to take malaria prophylaxis.
