Benguerra Island
The island is approximately 55 square kilometers and lies 8.5 miles offshore. It is famous for its unspoiled white beaches, remarkable dive sites and excellent fishing (subject to a strict “catch & release” policy).
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 (7 miles long x 3.4 miles wide), and lies 8.5 miles 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.
