Africa, the continent of captivating landscapes, rich cultures, and awe-inspiring wildlife, is a bucket list for travellers worldwide. While there are countless enchanting destinations to explore on this vast continent, one gem that stands out for its unspoiled beauty and unique charm is Benguerra Island, Mozambique.
Benguerra Island, situated off the coast of Mozambique, is a pristine tropical paradise that promises an unforgettable experience to those who seek to immerse themselves in the wonders of Africa.
As specialist safari architects, Safari Guru will seamlessly connect your Southern Africa safari itinerary with the tranquil shores of Benguerra Island, revealing its natural treasures, cultural riches, and adventurous opportunities designed to make your journey truly remarkable.
View a Safari Guru sample itinerary, including Azura Benguerra Lodge with Cape Town, Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls Zimbabwe - VIDEO ITINERARY ...
The second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Benguerra Island, Mozambique, lies 14km from the mainland. While small, just 11km long x 5.5 km wide, the island packs a lot in and was made a national park in 1971.
Benguerra consists of forest, savannah, freshwater lakes, and wetland ecosystems, home to diverse fauna and flora. Dry and sunny all year round, this is the perfect place to relax and indulge your senses. Getting here is reassuringly straightforward — a beautiful, relaxing end to any bush adventure.
But other than relaxing, there is a surprising amount to do and plenty to see in the "adventure haven" of Benguerra Island! Diving, sailing on dhows, fishing, riding, eating and enjoying cocktails in the warm African sun.
Your journey to Benguerra Island begins with an international flight to Vilankulo, Mozambique. From there, it's just a short and scenic hop by small aircraft to the island. Direct flights to Vilankulo are available from major international cities, such as Johannesburg, South Africa, making your travel plans to Benguerra Island convenient and accessible.
As we say, it is a stunning follow-on to any Southern African Safari adventure.
Benguerra Island is renowned for its unspoiled, palm-fringed beaches. The soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters stretch as far as the eye can see, providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation, beachcombing, and water-based activities. Whether you're looking for a serene escape or an adventure-filled day at the beach, Benguerra's shoreline has it.
The surrounding waters are a vibrant playground for marine enthusiasts. The Bazaruto Archipelago is part of a protected marine national park, ensuring that the underwater world remains pristine.
The island and the ocean here are a paradise on top or beneath the waves. The waters around the island form part of a protected marine conservation area. These waters are home to Africa's only population of the most unique and endangered sea cow: the rare dugong.
The ocean here is a mecca for diving enthusiasts and snorkellers with perfectly and naturally preserved reefs. In addition to the massive draw of the dugong, the reefs are home to languid turtles, migrating whales, and playful dolphins, all alongside a wide variety of reef species.
The species include the sportfish spear-bill marlin, steel grey sailfish and tuna. Various fully equipped dive centres offer Benguerra Island diving adventures to suit and excite every guest, from experienced dive masters to novices seeking to see a whole new underwater world of wonder and beauty.
Choice dive sites include the popular dive site at Two Mile Reef, and excursions to 5 Mile Reef, 9 Mile Reef, San Sebastian, and Margaruque Island can also be arranged.
For those seeking adventure, Benguerra Island offers a plethora of water-based activities. From thrilling windsurfing and kitesurfing to the serene tranquillity of kayaking, there's something for everyone.
Deep-sea fishing is another popular activity here, and the island's rich marine waters offer the chance to reel in some impressive catches.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a world-renowned catch-and-release fishing destination; the island boasts excellent professional fishing guides at some of our favourite lodges, such as Azura Benguerra, Marlin Lodge and &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge, with fully equipped multipurpose fishing boats.
Between the islands and the mainland are shallow flats providing an ideal breeding ground for bait fish, feeding the numerous species of game fish found in the waters. Fishing here comes in many options. For keen sports anglers, there's the opportunity to hunt the ocean's kingpin, the spear-bill marlin, or go after billfish, sailfish or tuna.
Other more leisurely options include light tackle fishing in the bay and fly-fishing in the open ocean to depths of 10 to 40 metres to catch king and queen mackerel, barracuda, bonito and crimson snapper.
Above the water, experience a beautiful, relaxing sail in a dhow. The wooden dhow is the traditional fishing vessel with a triangular sail that locals use. Climb aboard and enjoy a stunning cruise around the azure bay, seeing the island from the shore and watching the sun setting over the islands, cold drink in hand, listening to the quiet splash of the waves and swoosh of the dhow's sail, enjoying an African sunset.
There are options to take in the beauty of Benguerra Island on horseback, regardless of your riding capability! The island has a fantastic stable of horses and excellent horsing specialist guides who know each horse and gauge and plan your ride according to all levels of riding abilities. Anyone can see the island from the unique perspective of horseback at a comfortable pace for your riding skill, or lack thereof.
Join the horses and a dedicated guide to experience the adventure of the trails and marked pathways on a casual stroll or a gallop across the sands. Routes are never fixed with guides showing you the island's highlights, be they miles of open beach, rolling oceans of the north, exotic bush, or the happenings of local life on this island paradise. A real treat for horse lovers is to take to the seas on horseback!
Helicopter tours are available from some of our favourite Benguerra Island resorts for those wishing to see the island from a different perspective. During your scenic flights, you'll witness the coastline, its mammalian inhabitants and the kaleidoscope of ocean blues from the air.
To complete your Benguerra Island experience, choose from a range of luxurious accommodations that perfectly blend with the island's natural beauty. World-class resorts offer breathtaking ocean views, private villas, and exquisite cuisine in an idyllic beachfront setting. Whether you prefer a romantic hideaway for two, a family-friendly resort, or a private villa for friends, you'll find the perfect retreat that caters to your desires.
One of Safari Guru's all-time favourite properties is, without a doubt, Azura Benguerra, offering a harmonious blend of luxury and nature. You can indulge in the finest amenities while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
So, whether you seek relaxation under the shade of swaying palm trees, exhilarating encounters with marine life, a cultural immersion like no other, or the thrill of a safari adventure, Benguerra Island has it all. Your journey to this African paradise awaits.
Contact Safari Guru to find out what other destinations work well with Mozambique for your ultimate bush and beach vacation. CONTACT SAFARI GURU
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