FLAMINGO BAY WATER LODGE

Flamingo Bay Water Lodge is situated in the pristine tidal bay of Inhambane 485km north of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.

The lodge is built on stilts in the crystal clear waters of Inhambane Bay. This eco-paradise is home to flocks of flamingos, tropical fish and the very rare dugong. The sunsets at Flamingo Bay are nothing less than breathtaking. 

The warm Indian Ocean offers safe bathing all year round and the endless wide open beaches offer hours of strolling pleasure.

ACCOMMODATION

The luxury water chalets are spacious and well appointed with balcony, wide opening sliding doors and air-conditioning. The chalets and furniture are constructed from beautiful local hardwoods from Mozambique. Sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling and boating may be enjoyed directly from each chalet.

This lodge is unique and the only one of its kind in Africa. Flamingo Bay prides itself in having an undisturbed eco-setting that is peaceful and pristine. Because of the setting and exclusivity children under 12 years are not permitted at the lodge allowing guests to appreciate the peacefulness, elegance and romance of this tropical getaway.

The main building and chalets are connected by wooden walkways where golf carts are available to ferry guests. The main building can also be accessed from the land and is fronted by the tidal waters of the bay.

Honeymoon Destination 

Flamingo Bay Water Lodge is a wonderful honeymoon destination. The chalets are situated away from the main building, adding to the experience of tranquility and serenity.

RESTAURANT 

An elegant restaurant overlooks the swimming pool which merges into the view across the bay. Enjoy cocktails on the spacious pool deck while watching the sunset or enjoy your meals in the morning or evening either indoors or outdoors.

The gourmet restaurant offers sumptuous meals specialising in local dishes of Mozambique including fresh prawns, fish, crabs and calamari which are all caught locally. The well stocked bar is a gathering point attracting guests to share their days experiences and enjoy the magical sunsets.  An upstairs area enhances the view as the day draws to a close.

Coffee Bar  

An ideal place to relax over a good cup of coffee and a light meal.

Lounge 

The comfortable lounge allows one to relax in a peaceful environment while enjoying a drink or light snack.

CONFERENCE CENTRE

A spacious well appointed air-conditioned conference centre seats 60 guests comfortably. Please contact us for more information.

ACTIVITIES:

Note: All activities are operated from Barra Lodge. Activities at Barra Lodge include scuba-diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, quad biking, catamaran sailing, horse riding and various excursions. A complimentary transfer service is available to Flamingo Bay guests wanting to participate in activities and all activities may be booked at Flamingo Bay reception.

Scuba Diving

Barra Lodge has a fully equipped Padi Dive centre with all the necessary facilities including kitting-up rooms, filling station, rest areas, kit storage, lecture and first-aid areas.

Catamaran Sailing

The luxury 33foot liveaboard catamaran offers unforgettable day trips in the secluded estuary. Various trips & excursions are offered as well as snorkelling and diving.

Charter Boat Fishing

Experienced resident fishermen are on hand to introduce you to these excellent fishing waters. A large number of game fish abound in these waters including sail fish and Pelagic species. This makes this area a prime destination for fishing competitions. The resort’s ski boats offer the latest equipment and tackle, and do encourage tag and release.

Dhow Trips

Take a trip on a dhow and feel a great sense of history as the dhows are still built as they were in ancient times. This is something that must be experienced before this age old tradition dies out.

Mangrove

Behind Barra Lodge is a saltwater mangrove with crystal clear waters which can be explored by boat or on foot. This ecosystem is made up of a fascinating chain of pioneering and sacrificial plants together with a huge array of crustaceans. Flocks of flamingos, local fish traps and stunning sunsets over the estuary make this a photographers dream.

Sightseeing

Inhambane City is steeped in history. This was the southerly most trading port in Africa used by the Arabs. Vasco Da Gama landed here in 1534. The cathedrals, old colonial Portuguese architecture, African culture and local markets make this a fascinating town to browse around. A number of restaurants in and around Inhambane offer a variety of meal options.

Horse Riding

The romance of riding along the beach with the sea and sand and wind in your face is an unforgettable experience. Beginners are welcome.

Quad Bikes

Quad biking through the coconut plantations opens new vistas and following the tracks and paths through these areas allows one to experience the real Mozambique while riding through local villages and into the heart of Mozambique. These are guided and managed by Barra Lodge staff. Quad bikes and vehicles are prohibited on the beaches to preserve the rich and unspoilt marine life.   

Water Sports

For water lovers a host of activities are available. The bay is ideal for hobie-cat and laser dingy sailing. Snake rides, paddle ski’s, surfboards and boogie boards are just some of the activities available.

(Note: Some activities may be seasonal.)

ACCESS

There are direct flights from OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg or from Lanseria Airport into Inhambane on a regular basis.

From the historical city of Inhambane it is only a 30 minute drive to Flamingo Bay and transfers are done by the lodge staff.. This scenic drive winds through local villages and groves of tropical coconut trees.

Self-drive:

Situated 485km north of Maputo, access by road is on a tarred road which is suitable for normal vehicles.

The road from Maputo to Xai Xai has been upgraded and resurfaced. North from Xai-Xai there is an old section of road, approx. 70km, which is potholed. This section is being patched and will be completed in due course. After the initial 70km section the road is new and upgraded making the drive a lot easier. Be aware of construction vehicles and road crews.

Please note that there are numerous towns and villages en-route and the main road often passes directly through these villages. Speed limits are enforced in these places and it is advised to drive with caution. Do not drive at night. The drive from Maputo to Inhambane can take anything between 6 – 8 hours and sufficient time needs to be allowed to avoid night driving. A secure parking area is available for guests’ vehicles.

RATES:

Rates at Flamingo Bay: from R 1 255.00 pp per night including Dinner & Breakfast.