| 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. Click here to find out more about the community projects. |
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