Bitten by the Beach Bug
In the name of research I've travelled all over Africa and the Indian Ocean, searching for that perfect destination for a beach break to relax for a while after a safari.
In Mozambique I think I've found it.
The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of four islands, huddled 30 minutes boatride from the port of Vilanculos, classed as a National Marine Park and run by the World Wildlife Fund.
There are four lodges on the island, but just two became my firm favourites.
Benguerra Lodge is a beautiful and very simple establishment, with a central bar area surrounded by mature trees and lawns while the 13 detached guest chalets are individually set on stilts along the beautiful beach.
The management here work their staff lightly, with one week on followed by one week off: perhaps for this reason they have a really relaxed, attentive mood and the atmosphere is superb.
The beach is magnificent and there's a simple dive school, but the greatest pleasure here is just to relax and enjoy the bird-filled bush, the coral-filled waters, and the excellent seafood cuisine.
Almost as lovely, though slightly more polished, is Marlin Lodge, which might perhaps appeal more to keen anglers (there are bonefish on the island) or divers.
With 23 guest bedrooms it is a bigger resort, but it still feels warm and intimate.
Beware the cheapest 'classic' rooms, however, as they're small and uninspiring: suites and villas are only a few dollars more but much better value.
Though dugongs and whales are amongst the attractions of the sea, it's still worth taking some time off the beach to explore inland.
There are lakes with crocodiles and dunes that wouldn't look out of place in Namibia.
It's great to explore by 4x4 or on foot.
I am a convert to the charms and unique strong character of the Bazaruto Archipelego.
The extraordinarily tidal coastline is constantly changing in character.
The local fishermen plying their trade at sea and along the beaches add life and I've been hooked by the forever changing shades of turquoise water that washes over sand so fine it squeaks.
If you're adding a beach break onto a South African safari there's no sense flying all the way up to the Seychelles: a beach paradise is far closer to hand.
I want to stay longer and try and identify every bird, catch a tuna and eat it, snorkel and dive every reef and when I have had my fill of beautiful tropical fish and ocean going turtles I want to pass a whale and her calf on my way to finding some grazing dugongs.
I will be back.
In Mozambique I think I've found it.
The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of four islands, huddled 30 minutes boatride from the port of Vilanculos, classed as a National Marine Park and run by the World Wildlife Fund.
There are four lodges on the island, but just two became my firm favourites.
Benguerra Lodge is a beautiful and very simple establishment, with a central bar area surrounded by mature trees and lawns while the 13 detached guest chalets are individually set on stilts along the beautiful beach.
The management here work their staff lightly, with one week on followed by one week off: perhaps for this reason they have a really relaxed, attentive mood and the atmosphere is superb.
The beach is magnificent and there's a simple dive school, but the greatest pleasure here is just to relax and enjoy the bird-filled bush, the coral-filled waters, and the excellent seafood cuisine.
Almost as lovely, though slightly more polished, is Marlin Lodge, which might perhaps appeal more to keen anglers (there are bonefish on the island) or divers.
With 23 guest bedrooms it is a bigger resort, but it still feels warm and intimate.
Beware the cheapest 'classic' rooms, however, as they're small and uninspiring: suites and villas are only a few dollars more but much better value.
Though dugongs and whales are amongst the attractions of the sea, it's still worth taking some time off the beach to explore inland.
There are lakes with crocodiles and dunes that wouldn't look out of place in Namibia.
It's great to explore by 4x4 or on foot.
I am a convert to the charms and unique strong character of the Bazaruto Archipelego.
The extraordinarily tidal coastline is constantly changing in character.
The local fishermen plying their trade at sea and along the beaches add life and I've been hooked by the forever changing shades of turquoise water that washes over sand so fine it squeaks.
If you're adding a beach break onto a South African safari there's no sense flying all the way up to the Seychelles: a beach paradise is far closer to hand.
I want to stay longer and try and identify every bird, catch a tuna and eat it, snorkel and dive every reef and when I have had my fill of beautiful tropical fish and ocean going turtles I want to pass a whale and her calf on my way to finding some grazing dugongs.
I will be back.
Source...