andBeyond Benguerra Island

Snorkeling

Venture out on a boat into the vast blue ocean with snorkeling gear. Explore exposed coastal reefs; just off Benguerra Island. Witness the technicolored marine life of the Indian Ocean. Flitting through the translucent waters under the searching rays of the African sun.

Snorkeling at Two Mile Reef will suit every guest; regardless of age and expertise. However; the boat ride out to the reef can be bumpy. This is due to the outgoing and incoming tides converging in the channel between Bazaruto and Benguerra Island.

On the boat trip, you may be lucky enough to spot playful dolphins and the elusive, endangered dugong. Under the water, you may encounter harmless reef sharks and slumberous turtles that effortlessly glide past with their wise eyes. Embrace the unspoiled beauty of the reef and the kaleidoscopic colors of the tropical fish; that move in droves around the exposed coral.

Two Mile Reef is faultless in its beauty. Guaranteeing an unforgettable outing. It is ideal for those who want to confidently explore the Indian Ocean’s shallower coral reefs. Your snorkeling excursion goes out at low tide; so is determined by the timing of the sea.

Bazaruto Scuba Diving

andBeyond Benguerra Island offers exceptional diving opportunities. It is ideally situated in a protected marine conservation area and home to Africa’s only population of the rare Dugong. The island boasts outstanding topaz reefs, perfectly and naturally preserved for diving enthusiasts. The surrounding reefs are home to ageless turtles. They glide through the deep waters and nest on the deserted outer shores of the islands. Migrating whales of colossal mass and presence, curious dolphins, and the elusive and endangered dugong romp these warm, inviting waters. Alongside a wide variety of reef species. A large population of spear-bill marlin, steel grey sailfish, and tuna thrives on these reefs.

andBeyond Benguerra Island Lodge has a fully equipped Dive Centre. They offer a full range of diving adventures that suit the preferences of every guest.

There are several choice dive sites available to willing guests; such as the main dive site at Two Mile Reef. This reef is saturated with iridescent fish that glow in the clear, warm waters. Or venture further on trips to 5 Mile Reef, 9 Mile Reef, San Sebastian, and Margaruque Island.

Exciting scuba diving adventures are available any time of the day. They are not tide-dependent. Expert guides can provide lessons in the pool. As well as guide you to the best diving spots for your level of competency.

Benguerra Island Fishing

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a world-renowned fishing destination. The shallow flats between the islands and the mainland provide an excellent breeding ground for baitfish. This in turn provides sustenance for the numerous species of abundant game fish. Delight in an assortment of fishing options; either over two hours, a half-day, or a full day of adventure. Hop aboard a versatile, multipurpose fishing boat. At the ready for a fishing excursion unlike any other and accompanied by a professional guide. They are fully equipped with fishing tackle and safety equipment.

The lodge and fishing grounds are ideally located in a National Park. Bottom fishing is taboo and the catch-and-release of all species is greatly encouraged.

Fly-fishing is a wonderful adventure that can be enjoyed by both experienced and novice fishermen. Quick sinking lines are used over reefs that vary in depths from 10 to 40 meters (33 to 131 feet). This excursion is more productive in the summer months when the fish are feeding aggressively. Target species like the king and queen mackerel, the ferocious barracuda, the bonito, and the crimson snapper.

For those interested in a more relaxed fishing experience, light tackle fishing, using live bait and artificial lures; will easily trap the elusive sailfish. The dedicated fisherman will revel in deepsea fishing for the predatory billfish. These grow to lengths of over 4 meters (13 feet) and sport sword-like bills. Head out to the deep ocean and prepare for an epic fight, often interspersed with long periods of waiting. All made worthwhile by the catch of a lifetime; set against the backdrop of a breathtaking ocean landscape.

Dhow Cruise

Hop aboard a traditional dhow, a wooden vessel with a triangular sail, used for fishing by the island’s locals. The sailing adventure presents the Island and its surrounding waters in a unique light and offers excellent photographic opportunities.

Watch the sunset over the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago as you drift along the calm water. Guided by ocean breezes. Witness the blue sky rapidly change color. Marvel at the illuminated water, dancing with gold shimmers, as it welcomes the sun’s descent beneath the distant horizon. The scene plays out beautifully and the ocean swallows the golden orb into its infinite depths. Travel back to the shore, accompanied by the quiet swoosh of the dhow’s sail. Lost in the kaleidoscope of an African sunset.

Castaway picnic on Benguerra Island

Feel as though you have the island all to yourself as you indulge in a decadent picnic. Set in one of the most secluded sites on the Bazaruto Archipelago. Revel in magnificent sea views from the sand spit and lounge on the peak of soaring dunes. Romantically set up for an idyllic picnic. Delight in fare that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a vast assortment of hors d’oeuvres, appetizers, and local delicacies.

Choose from South Point Bazaruto or North Point Benguerra. Gently evoking feelings of being a castaway on a dreamy deserted island. Kick up your heels and lounge on soft sands. With 360-degree views of the ocean vista and the frolicking dolphins below.

Swimming with Horses

Horse enthusiasts of all ages, and riding levels, will have the memorable opportunity to enjoy fun-filled swimming with horses adventure, on the island. Dress down for the occasion, in just your swimwear, and ride bareback into azure waters.

Expect some splashing, and the occasional grunt of pleasure from your horse as it wades into the calm waters. Afterward, hop off your steed and allow them to enjoy a well-deserved roll on the beach.

This 30 to 45-minute adventure is perfect as a standalone activity. Or; it 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.

Helicopter sightseeing over Bazaruto Island

Experience the beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago from above as you board a helicopter and fly along the Mozambican coastline. The scenic flip offers magnificent photographic opportunities through every window, with unobstructed views for all passengers. Marvel at the crystal clear water and pristine, pearlescent beaches of this natural haven. Benguerra Island is surrounded by glorious golden sand dunes. Forever changing form in harmony with the whims of the temperate winds. As well as deep blue lakes dotted around jade vegetation. And pristine, unspoiled white beaches that blend perfectly into the azure ocean.

Benguerra Island Expedition

Island expeditions are fully tailored and customized to accommodate your interests and preferences. Explore the azure lakes and creamy dunes on the northern side of the island. Stroll among the pews of the resident church. And interact with the native Mozambican people in their vibrant thatch and straw village.

Climb up the golden dunes, and watch the sunset with your favorite cocktails. Cast your eye to the leafy branches and spot an Osprey. This specialist fish-eater is a common sight. Soaring over shorelines, patrolling waterways, and standing on their huge stick nests. Venture to the northwestern part of the island; to seek out Green Malkoha and sightings of the shy Suni antelope. Indulge in fresh, scrumptious fruit and vegetables from the local farmers.

A fascinating excursion to the community center, Centro Cumunitario Kanhe Kwedo reveals a wonderful community initiative. Local women delve into their entrepreneurial creative spirit and create beautiful beaded items, and men practice conservation initiatives.

Each drive is accompanied by a local guide. Who has an extensive knowledge of the rich history and fauna and flora of the island. Guides are dedicated to treating you to an authentic local experience; teeming with culture and African flavor. Marvel at the colorful vegetation peppered throughout the island. ‘Picture perfect’ in its lustrous presence and inhabited with the silhouettes of tiny rainbow-like birds and candy-floss flamingos. Stroll across the infinite stretch of unspoiled shore. Before savoring a delectable picnic spread, served al fresco on unblemished, satiny sand.