Dugong Lodge

Dugong Lodge, Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mozambique

Our rating: First Class

Dugong Lodge is perched right on the edge of a long sandy beach located on a peninsula of land which stretches into the sea south of Vilanculos. This peninsula and the seas around it were recently declared a wildlife sanctuary covering an area of 33,000ha with varying habitats and environments including wetland, bush and marine areas.

Dugong itself has an idyllic setting amongst the msasa trees and jecka grasses and an intimate atmosphere with just 14 spacious rooms with air-conditioning. Two of the rooms are larger villas which are perfect for families or couples requiring more space (the villas have two ensuite bedrooms plus shared lounge and patio with private beach access). All the rooms at Dugong are cool and stylishly furnished with large white linen beds and nets, dark wood furniture, ensuite bathrooms with large stone baths and a powerful outside shower.

The main lodge is raised up on mahogany timber decks with beautiful views across the sea to the mainland and a long jetty jutting out into the protected Vilanculos Bay. There is a small swimming pool, comfy lounge, friendly bar area and a dining room serving tasty seafood and local Portuguese cuisine.

Finally at the end of the jetty a small gazebo is the perfect place for a sundowner. Activities from Dugong include snorkelling, fishing, picnics on deserted beaches, birding safaris, guided walks around the lodge and more.