PRISTINE BEACHES AND CORAL REEFS
Encircled by pristine beaches and coral reefs teeming with life, &Beyond Benguerra Island is just a stone’s throw off mainland Mozambique, in the sun-drenched Bazaruto Archipelago.
You’ll arrive helicopter from Vilanculos Airport, starting your holiday with immaculate views of these dreamy islands and the azure waters surrounding them. &Beyond’s small, unassuming lodge is sheltered within a canopy of lush indigenous forest overlooking a protected lagoon. Set under thatch, its 13 casinhas, cabanas and casas have a distinct Mozambican feel, and come equipped with private timber decks, pools and irresistible hanging day beds.
From lazy afternoons beneath the coconut palms to deep sea fishing expeditions, your tropical getaway can be tailored exactly to your liking. Some of the world’s finest scuba diving and snorkelling is available off Benguerra’s shores, as well as the opportunity for sunset dhow cruises, ‘castaway picnics’ and horse riding. Plush loungers frame the lodge’s rim-flow swimming pool, and a traditional wooden dhow has been transformed into a vibrant beach bar. Meals are fresh from the sea, and are best enjoyed on the beach with your toes in the sand.
&BEYOND BENGUERRA ISLAND, BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO
Benguerra Island, at a glance
- Low-key lodge tucked away on the northwest shores of Benguerra Island, in a protected marine conservation area
- Built from local materials reflecting African and Portuguese design
- Choice of luxurious thatched accommodation, including 10 casinhas, two cabanas and one three-bedroom family ‘casa’
- All offer private timber decks, rim-flow pools, sun loungers and private salas with hanging daybeds
- Other amenities include draped four-poster beds outdoor showers
- Vibrant dhow-inspired bar serving ice cold cocktails and tasty meals throughout the day
For leisure and pleasure
- Explore some of the world’s most pristine reefs and renowned dive sites, with a fully equipped PADI Dive Centre on site
- Secluded ‘castaway’ picnics on your own stretch of beach
- Swimming with horses
- Catamaran sailing and sunset cruises in a traditional wooden dhow
- Catch & release deep sea and saltwater fly fishing
- Massage sala set in tranquil forest surrounds
- Kayaking alongside dolphins, turtles and the rare dugong
- Scenic helicopter flights along Mozambique’s coastline
- Sparkling lodge pool with ocean views
Planning my first solo trip felt like a big step, but The Ultimate Travel Company made it easy from the outset. I reached out over a year in advance, and Rob Kent quickly put together a thoughtful itinerary based on exactly what I was looking for, securing great flights and always being available to talk things through. Everything ran smoothly and I felt looked after every step of the way. The accommodation in Japan, Fiji and Tahiti was excellent and the experiences unforgettable.
