Visiting us
Where are we?
Our little slice of paradise is nestled at the tip of the Machangulo Peninsula, just south of Inhaca Island. We’re located on the mainland side of the channel known as Hell’s Gate, which separates Inhaca from the mainland.
To reach us, you have two options: cross the stunning Maputo Bay by boat, or embark on an adventurous drive (4×4 only) by car.
Southern Mozambique is considered a low-risk malaria area; however, we recommend consulting your physician for advice on any necessary prophylactics to ensure a safe and healthy trip.
Option 1 - Boat Charter
The quickest and most direct way to visit us is by chartering a private transfer boat. For a more budget-friendly option, you can also take a “public charter shared boat” to Santa Maria. There are several companies that offer these services; see the links below for more information.
These charter boats depart from either Maputo Marina or Porto De Pesca and travel directly to Santa Maria, approximately 40km away. They typically drop you off as close as possible to your accommodation.
Many lodges can arrange a transfer for you, and some even provide the transfer themselves. Be sure to discuss your options with your lodge.
You can park your car at the port for a nominal daily fee. It is generally very safe, as there are guards monitoring the parking area.
Charter companies
Option 2 - Ferry
For your convenience, there is a public ferry that departs from Catembe ferry pier in Maputo to Inhaca, dropping you off at Inhaca Village.
You can park your car at the Afrin Hotel for a nominal daily fee. The parking area is generally very safe, as it is monitored by guards.
Upon arriving at Inhaca, you’ll transfer onto a “Banana boat” for a quick journey to the island. Please have 100 MZN ready for this transfer.
Once on the island, you have two options:
Option 1: Catch a local boat from Inhaca Pier to Santa Maria.
Option 2: Take a 30-minute car transfer to the “Reserve” at the southern end of the island. From there, a pre-arranged Banana boat will transfer you to the mainland, also known as Santa Maria. Your accommodation can usually assist with organizing this final boat transfer. See below for contact details of those who can help arrange the car transfer.
Justino +258 84 211 1476
Victor + 258 87 915 9942
Amos + 258 84 533 5568
Option 3 - Drive
By Road through the Maputo Special Reserve (Maputo Elephant Reserve)
To reach us by road, take the Maputo-Ponta road, turning off 70km south of the Katembe Bridge (40km north of the Farazul/Kosibay border post) and enter the park at the Futi Gate (please note: the DeGala (Southern) Gate is closed).
The route covers a total of 67km of thick, soft sand and requires a high clearance 4×4 vehicle. You will drive 39km through the Elephant Reserve and another 28km beyond the reserve, passing through rural villages.
The drive can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours. If you are interested in driving through the reserve and would like more information, click here.