&Beyond Benguerra Island Review: A Mozambique Luxury Lodge Immersed in Nature and Community

&Beyond Benguerra Island, set within the Bazaruto Archipelago off Mozambique’s coast, is a rare blend of eco-luxury retreat and authentic island experience. Over the course of our week-long stay, we discovered a property that balances barefoot elegance with a dedication to conservation and community empowerment, making it a standout among Mozambique luxury lodges.

Arrival and First Impressions

Our journey began with a flight to Vilankulos, followed by a brief helicopter transfer that offered sweeping views of the archipelago’s turquoise waters and sandy spits. Upon landing, we were welcomed with song and dance by the staff, an introduction that felt both heartfelt and celebratory. The lodge itself is tucked behind a grove of Casuarina pines, opening up to panoramic sea vistas that immediately set a tranquil tone.

Highlights:

• Arrival by helicopter over the Bazaruto Archipelago

• Warm, musical welcome from the team

• Immediate sense of seclusion and connection to nature

Accommodations and Design

The property’s architecture and interiors are a study in understated luxury. Each of the ten casinhas, two cabanas, and one three-bedroom villa is constructed using local materials and traditional techniques, featuring thatched roofs, hand-carved wood, and vibrant fabrics. Our cabana offered a private plunge pool, an outdoor shower, and direct access to a stretch of wild, unmanicured beach that felt entirely our own.

Key Features:

• Private plunge pools and outdoor showers in every accommodation

• Locally inspired décor with crisp linens and artisanal touches

• Seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces

Service and Personal Touches

Throughout our stay, each villa was assigned a Mozambican host who anticipated our preferences with quiet efficiency. When we mentioned our morning yoga routine, a mat and blocks appeared on our deck the next day. The staff’s attention to detail was consistently thoughtful, from arranging vegan breakfasts on our terrace to organizing a castaway picnic on a deserted stretch of sand.

Service Standouts:

• Personalized service from dedicated hosts

• Flexible dining arrangements, including private beachside meals

• Thoughtful gestures that reflect genuine care

Experiences and Activities

Life at &Beyond Benguerra Island unfolded at a gentle pace, with a focus on both relaxation and exploration. The island is a haven for birdlife, and we often shared breakfast with red squirrels and kingfishers. Days were spent snorkeling vibrant reefs, riding horses along the shoreline, or indulging in spa treatments using natural, locally sourced ingredients.

Memorable Experiences:

• Guided snorkeling and diving in some of Mozambique’s clearest waters

• Horseback riding on untouched beaches

• Private castaway picnics in secluded locations

• Island tours that highlight local culture and conservation efforts

Dining

The culinary approach is rooted in fresh, plant-based ingredients, with vegan-friendly cuisine available at every meal. Menus are tailored to guests’ preferences, and meals can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from our private terrace to a candlelit table on the sand.

Commitment to Community and Conservation

&Beyond’s ethos extends beyond hospitality. The lodge’s Rainbow Fund supports local education and infrastructure, employing island residents and investing in projects that benefit the broader community. We visited the local school and spoke with staff about their ongoing efforts to empower and uplift the island’s inhabitants.

Community Impact:

• Employment and training for local residents

• Support for education and infrastructure through the Rainbow Fund

• Conservation initiatives that protect both land and marine environments

What Makes &Beyond Benguerra Island Special

• True sense of privacy and seclusion, even at full occupancy

• Direct access to pristine beaches and world-class snorkeling and diving

• Personalized, attentive service from dedicated hosts

• Strong focus on sustainable tourism and community empowerment

• Vegan-friendly, locally inspired cuisine

Considerations

• Reaching the island requires multiple transfers, including a helicopter ride, which can be logistically demanding

• Beaches are natural and unmanicured, which may not suit those seeking a polished resort environment

• Evenings are tranquil, with limited organized entertainment

The Takeaway

&Beyond Benguerra Island is not just a place to stay but an experience that lingers. The property’s blend of comfort, authenticity, and purpose makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a Mozambique luxury lodge that is both restorative and responsible. We left with a deep appreciation for the lodge’s commitment to both its guests and its community, and a sense of having experienced something truly special.