Machangulo Beach Lodge, Machangulo Peninsula, Mozambique

A great value, activity rich property in Mozambique’s stunning south. Easily accessible from South Africa’s safari scene.

Cost Per Night

Perfect For

Families, groups of friends

Why we love it

Stunning natural setting with huge beaches, plethora of activities to keep everyone happy, warm water all year round, quirky lodge design.

LEONIE Taylor

Luxury Travel Specialist

Contact Us

Set high amongst stunning coastal dune forest overlooking the striking Inhaca Island, Machangulo Beach Lodge is one Mozambique’s most beautifully located lodges. As part of a protected natural reserve, the lodge is surrounded by tens of kilometres of untouched golden sandy beaches on either side and overlooks the Inhaca Island Marine Reserve; famed for its leatherback and loggerhead turtle populations as well as sea temperatures that stay at an enticing 27 degrees all year round.

With an incredible array of habitats including lakes, wetlands, swamp forests, grasslands, mangrove forests, coastline and dunes on the doorstep, the activity offering here is mouth-watering. Water-based activities range from world class snorkelling and scuba diving in the marine reserve, spotting humpback whales on their annual migration (June to October), kayaking and birdwatching amongst the mangroves, deep sea fishing for marlin and swordfish and serene sunset cruises on a local dhow boat.

On land, be sure to take a morning stroll and swim along one of the beaches, or indeed over at Inhaca Island; exploring rock pools with or without a guide and taking advantage of a delicious picnic set up that awaits at the finish. Alternatively, take a guided walk into the local Santa Maria village; a small fishing community that exudes a laid-back tropical vibe, to try some of the local cuisine. From November to February, the beaches here provide one of few global sanctuaries to the leatherback and loggerhead turtles who return here to nest.

Set high amongst stunning coastal dune forest overlooking the striking Inhaca Island, Machangulo Beach Lodge is one Mozambique’s most beautifully located lodges. As part of a protected natural reserve, the lodge is surrounded by tens of kilometres of untouched golden sandy beaches on either side and overlooks the Inhaca Island Marine Reserve; famed for its leatherback and loggerhead turtle populations as well as sea temperatures that stay at an enticing 27 degrees all year round.

With an incredible array of habitats including lakes, wetlands, swamp forests, grasslands, mangrove forests, coastline and dunes on the doorstep, the activity offering here is mouth-watering. Water-based activities range from world class snorkelling and scuba diving in the marine reserve, spotting humpback whales on their annual migration (June to October), kayaking and birdwatching amongst the mangroves, deep sea fishing for marlin and swordfish and serene sunset cruises on a local dhow boat.

On land, be sure to take a morning stroll and swim along one of the beaches, or indeed over at Inhaca Island; exploring rock pools with or without a guide and taking advantage of a delicious picnic set up that awaits at the finish. Alternatively, take a guided walk into the local Santa Maria village; a small fishing community that exudes a laid-back tropical vibe, to try some of the local cuisine. From November to February, the beaches here provide one of few global sanctuaries to the leatherback and loggerhead turtles who return here to nest.

The Lodge

Set high on a dune the main lodge and nine secluded chalets are hidden by coastal dune forest which is home to prolific birdlife. Spread over three levels a series of walkways and stairways snake their way through the forest from the main lodge and chalets down to the beach (note there are over 100 steps). Offering a delightful ocean view across to Inhaca Island, the striking and spacious main lodge building houses the Delagoa lounge, bar, sunken covered deck and dining area. All the furniture and colourful soft furnishings have been carefully crafted in traditional style by on-site carpenters and tailors.

Steps lead down to the lower level Baixas deck with Dhow bar, lunch area, reception and a small gift shop. Literally steps away from the beach is the swimming pool deck, shady umbrellas and sun loungers. Close by is a fully equipped activities and PADI dive centre and spa that offers massages, facials and body treatments. Down on the beach are thatched 'umbrellas' with sun lounges and kayaks.

Blending into their forest environment are 9 nine chalets – built of reed, canvas and thatch - that have been carefully positioned to maximise privacy. Each chalet is air conditioned and furnished with mosquito net, overhead fan, mini bar fridge, tea & coffee making facilities, safe, hairdryer, international plug points and internal telephone. A funky beach bag and sarong are provided. All mattresses are extra length and can be converted into a twin. All chalets have wooden decks that provide a wonderfully relaxing area to appreciate the ocean views.

Wi-Fi is available throughout and the lodge has a guest portal which details all optional activities and spa treatments and their cost. A nice touch is the daily What's App message advising the following days activities, their departure time as well as times for low and high tide, sunset and sunrise and weather conditions.

Dining

Breakfast and dinner are served in the main lodge dining area. The dinner menu offers a choice of 3 starters and 4 main courses. Lunch is served at the Baixas Dhow Bar. On arrival a light snack is served during check-in, should guests want something more substantial they just have to ask. An all-inclusive drinks package is available at an additional cost.

Activities

Activities here vary from land to sea, it’s a scuba diving paradise as you are surrounded by marine reserves. Above the water you can head out fishing, kayaking or just relax on the beach in this beautiful area. Exploring the villages or just completely chilling out are all fantastic options as you enjoy the lodge.

Why Wayfairer

Machungulo Beach Lodge perfectly situates itself between a safari lodge and a beach property. They are surrounded by 3 amazing nature reserves and 2 marine reserves. All the building materials were sourced locally, and the vibrant Mozambique patterns and designs are a highlight throughout the property.

The lodge is working to increase their community awareness and go Green in their new refurbishment plans.