The Bazaruto Archipelago is a wonderful tropical island get away with numerous accomodation options and plenty of activities on offer. Bazaruto Marine Park came about in 1971, now covers the entire Bazaruto Archipelago making this 1400sq km reserve one of the largest in the Indian Ocean. The area protects the few surviving dugongs and marine turtles as well as Fauna and flora, coral reefs and marine birds. Others including humpback whales, dolphins, and manta rays can also be found. The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of five big Islands, the Bazaruto is the biggest island and has a lot of luxurious resorts and lodges on it. It has a large covering of clear blue water and fresh water lakes where crocodiles, exotic butterflies and about 125 species of birds live.

The next big island after Bazaruto is the Benguerra Island which is then followed by the Bangue, Magaruque, and the least is Santa Carolina. Just like the Bazaruto, these other islands also shows similar Landscape and wildlife. They are covered by large sand dunes and freshwater lakes, pink flamingos, freshwater crocodiles, red Duiker antelope and Samango Monkeys.

The islands are also known for game fishing, as most of the rural communities in Mozambique rely on agriculture and fish farming as a source of living. Rural communities with about 3500 inhabitants are few kilometres away from the ocean, the fishermen harvest marine species such as sand oysters and others, and the agriculturalists engage in growing crops and raising livestock. Most families engage in both trade since both are highly rewarding businesses.

Amongst the lodges on Benguerra Island, AndBeyond Benguerra lodges have been regarded as the best. A tropical paradise tucked into a lush indigenous forest and looking out onto a picturesque crescent of sandy beach, andBeyond Benguerra Island is the quintessential luxury island retreat. Set among swaying palm trees, ten casinhas and two cabanas are being extensively revamped in a light and airy colour scheme that combines tropical chic with a distinct African feel and reminders of the area’s Portuguese heritage. Ideal for families or groups, the three-bedroom Casa Familia ensures privacy and exclusivity. Set under local thatch, both casitas and cabanas boasts elegant four-poster beds with white linen canopies and comfortable day beds. Large windows with dark wooden shutters gaze out towards the Indian Ocean, while private timber decks and cool plunge pools offer a secluded alternative to beach sands and ocean waters. Bathrooms feature generous tubs big enough for two, while al fresco showers are decorated with hand-painted tiles. Woven hammocks invite guests to an afternoon siesta, lulled by a chorus of songbirds that makes the forest canopy its home.

A shaded gazebo provides the ideal venue for starlit dinners, while the stylish dining room and open lounge, both of which boast wide, sunny decks, are the setting for more social dining. Set in its own secluded garden and mere metres from the beach, the Casa Familia boasts three bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, as well as private swimming pool set on the sheltered wooden veranda. The lodge’s colourful beach bar, sheltered by swaying palm trees, is the perfect setting to relax or enjoy open air meals throughout the day. Set deep in cleverly created patches of shade, comfortable loungers beckon guests to relax around the pool while drinking in the ocean views.