Chidenguele

70 km north of Xai Xai, the EN1 road to Beira winds to its closest brush with the Indian Ocean, only 5 km away. The countryside undulates gently, lush and green with pockets of coconut palms towering over cashew nut thickets - freshwater lakes dominate the area. Here, in a clearing, lies the tiny, sleepy village of Chidenguele (meaning "The Highest Point" in the local, Chope language). The village may only have one short street, but its name is emblazoned proudly in white stone on the hill behind the sandy soccer field. The cathedral (!), crisp and white on the opposite hill, seems quite out of place with its stained-glass windows. The rustic, African 'mercado; (market) trickles out a supply of whatever fruit and vegetables are available, but always beer and pau (the legendary Mozambican bread). From the village of Chidenguele, a scenic sand track meanders to the spectacular coastline only 5 km away... to paradise!



ACCOMMODATION

SELF CATERING CHALETS

The thatched chalets each sleep up to 4, 6 or 8 people (see sleeping arrangement below). They are isolated from one another and tucked into indigenous forest.

Each is serviced daily, has hot and cold running water, an equipped kitchenette and bathroom with shower, toilet and basin. All chalets are equipped with: gas cooker, fridge, geyser, linen, towels, crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils; mosquito nets, Weber braai's on request, and much more...

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENT

Type A (x2): (4 sleeper): 1 bedroom with double bed, open plan lounge/kitchen - lounge sleeper couches sleep two.

Type B (x1): (6 sleeper): 1 bedroom with double bed, open plan lounge/kitchen - lounge sleeper couches sleep two. Loft with two single beds.

Type C (x1): (8 sleeper): 2 x Type A cottages with inter-leading door.

Type D (x1): (6 sleeper): 2 bedrooms (one upstairs) each with 2 single beds, open plan lounge/kitchen - lounge sleeper couches sleep two. Loft with two single beds.

OVERNIGHT UNITS

A perfect night stop for the weary traveller. Each overnight unit (9 in total) is equipped with 2 single beds, linen, towels, shower, toilet, basin, hot & cold running water.

GENERAL

Hired help may be arranged on request. Staff are on constant standby to assist with your every need whilst in Mozambique - from fish cleaning to breakdowns (we even pump your tyres!). The lodge itself can be accessed by 2-wheel drive vehicles.

ACTIVITIES

SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is wonderful at low tide, even for the less confident or inexperienced - perfect for beginners or children. Explore the numerous, magnificent rock pools, shallows and gullies teeming with sea life and marvel at the incredible diversity of shape, form and colour in the underwater world.



WALKS AND HIKES

Stroll or jog the endless beaches searching for the perfect cowrie shell or take walks through unexplored sand forest to one of the freshwater lakes covered with water lilies and fringed with emerald palms - birdwatchers always seem to return so much later than anyone else!

BIRD WATCHING

The area has a wide variety of birds due to its varied eco-systems - beach, thick primary dune forest, savanna and freshwater lakes. Birders, please help us compile a bird list by recording your sightings in our "Bird Sightings Log" in the bar.

THE BAR AND RESTAURANT

The Bar and Restaurant at Paraiso de Chidenguele are legendary. Well stocked, a stunning ocean view and open till late. Sports lovers have access to DSTV!. Enjoy fabulous seafood dinners or light meals ('a la Portuguese) in the open-air restaurant.




LAKE INHAMBAVALE

Ancient and steeped in history, this freshwater lake, only minutes away by vehicle, is 23 km long, clear and lukewarm. Lake Inhambavale is perfect for safe swimming, canoes, sailing, windsurfing, etc., and offers fun filled time away from the beach... so bring your non-motorised toys.

BOA PAZ LIGHTHOUSE

This lighthouse is still active and in nightly use. Drive (only minutes away) or walk through African savanna and past three freshwater lakes, to the lighthousekeeper's shack. Now trek a short way to the top of the highest dune in the area - the more adventurous may climb to the top of the lighthouse itself - either way, the view is breathtaking!

WORLDSVIEW VIEWSITE

When accessible, the views from the top of one of the highest dunes in the area over unspoiled inland Mozambique and the Indian Ocean are spectacular and unforgettable - the epitome of tranquillity.

Especially recommended with ice cold drinks just before sunset.
XAI-XAI
Xai-Xai hit world headlines when this town was submerged during the devastating floods of 2000. A day trip to Xai-Xai may be necessary to replenish fuel and supplies. Whilst there, visit the local markets where fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables are available. Take a trip to the beach 10 km from the town itself and visit the beach, Praia de Xai-Xai.