Anvil Bay, Mozambique Hotel

Mozambique

Match a relaxed beachfront stay along an unspoilt stretch of coastline in MOZAMBIQUE with the opportunity to discover extraordinary wildlife in forest, savannah and ocea.

The call of the wild rings loud and clear at Anvil Bay, where barefoot beach paradise meets an eco-conscious base all set up for an African adventure. Private and secluded, Anvil Bay takes camp on an unspoilt stretch of sandy beach in south Mozambique’s Maputo Special Reserve. Here, ten casinhas crafted from wood, canvas and thatch hang high in the forest canopy, looking down on the golden sands. Whether you arrive by swooping down over the lakes and mangroves or via the dusty safari track, the remarkable location where savannah, wetlands and mangrove forests meet the sea means the area is teeming with wildlife encounters. Rich in endemic species, the nature reserve is rated in the top 25 most biodiverse places on earth. Formed in 1930 to protect the elephant population, it’s home to the last remaining coastal herd. With all this in mind, and championing respect and appreciation for the environment and local community, Anvil Bay was constructed with a small footprint and big focus on sustainability. Natural materials, solar power and local craftsmanship are just the start here. Established with thanks to a government ecotourism grant, Anvil Bay is a partnership between a philanthropic foundation and the local Chemucane community, who have helped to build and run the low-impact eco lodges. Activities are equally enriching. At the beach, join a marine guide for an ocean safari to spot dolphins, nesting turtles (four out of seven of the world’s turtle species are found off the coast of southern Mozambique) and migrating whales, depending on the season. While back on land, along with the elephants, look out for hippo, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra and giraffe as well as many other savannah-roaming mammals and reptiles, and over 350 bird species.

Come sunset, take a dhow cruise across the nearby lake before savouring fresh seafood around the campfire under star-filled skies. You’re guaranteed to leave with a deeper appreciation of the natural world and your place within it. Casinhas from £352pp, including meals.

Words by Megan Dickson.

This Article was taken from the August/September 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.

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