Anvil Bay Lodge

Anvil Bay’s accommodations, Casinhas (a little home in Mozambique), are nestled in the canopy of the coastal forest just moments away from the secluded sandy white beach. The rustic and unique Casinhas blend a small footprint, natural materials and local craftsmanship with simple functional furnishings and fine linen. Outdoor lighting is kept to a minimum to better see the majestic African night sky and so as not to disturb the turtles in nesting season.

The thatch and canvas design takes advantage of the cooling ocean breezes and the canvas sides can be rolled up to truly get in touch with the natural surrounds, giving guests the best experience of life on a beach whilst preserving the raw natural beauty of this pristine piece of paradise. The canvas tents provide shade on the beach and a thatched retreat in the forest shelter from occasional storms.

The beach bar lounge and restaurant are centrally positioned on the bay with the accommodations either side so guests can book to be close to the action or enjoy even more isolation on the north and south ends. Designed to be your home from home you will find a well-stocked minibar and beverage station, luxury indoor and outdoor showers, plus an en-suite and a private dining deck.

Awaken at your leisure to a delicious breakfast of fresh fruits, cereal, yoghurt, cold meats and cheeses, with freshly baked muffins and your choice of hot items cooked to order and served on the beach. After a morning of unforgettable experiences, refuel and enjoy a scrumptious light lunch at the beach bar overlooking the picture-perfect Ocean. Later, as the sun sets, freshen up and get ready for a pre-dinner drink or two before settling in to indulge in an excellent meal. All ingredients are prepared by the talented chef who takes advantage of the fresh seafood and produce from local communities, serving world class cuisine with a Mozambican flair.

Beach Walks – Walk along the stunning unspoiled coastline, boasting 3km North and 2km South of Anvil Bay. Guests can safely walk as far as you like with beautiful ocean and sunset viewpoints atop some of the world’s highest coastal dunes.

Dune Forest Trails – Experience coastal forest and the open savannah on this trail walk, exploring the inland areas of the Maputo Special Reserve (MSR) with one of the helpful guides. Whether you are a keen birder or simply want to take a relaxing stroll to the nearby lake and view the resident hippos – this is the trail for you.

Turtle Nesting Walks (Seasonal) – From October to March each year Anvil Bay Lodge is privileged to witness the nesting of Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles. The emergence of the Hatchlings occurs from December to late March. Anvil Bay participates in the turtle monitoring program, guests can take a turtle tour to view turtles laying their eggs – for a truly phenomenal encounter.

Embark on an exhilarating 2-hour leisure cruise along the stunning coastline, in search of the fascinating and majestic marine animals both big and small. Dolphins are frequent visitors here, as are turtles and the occasional Whale shark and Manta Ray. Those that wish to experience the Ocean Safari must be able to swim, though life jackets are supplied, and children must be accompanied by parents.

From July to November every year the Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales make their annual migration along the Mozambican coastline on their way to and from their winter breeding grounds. Often, they can be sighted directly from shore, however, if you wish to get a closer look then there is no better way to do so than on the Ocean Safari. Keep an eye out for the tell-tale blow as they surface to breathe, or perhaps you will be lucky enough to witness them breaching, lob tailing or pec rolling.

Sea Kayaks – A selection of kayaks are available for Anvil Bay guests, lifejackets are also provided to keep you safe whilst out exploring the waves. Double kayaks are also an option and can be configured for angling.

Stand Up Paddle boards – These big surfboard style crafts are designed to be paddled standing up, test your balance and skills as you take in the beauty of the island. Though, the boards can be just as much fun when used in a kneeling position.

Body Boarding – This is a fun and easy activity for all ages to enjoy. Grab a board from the activity centre and head down to the shoreline to catch some waves and to make a splash. The activity team will be sure to assist you on the best places to adventure along the beach.

Snorkelling Trips – Discover the world below the surface of the sparkling Indian Ocean by taking a snorkelling trip. Anvil Bay provides its guests with all equipment needed and an introduction to snorkelling techniques. Travel a short distance by boat to one of the exclusive coral reef snorkelling sites to spend time observing the diverse marine life found at Anvil Bay.

“One of the solutions to saving the worlds dwindling areas of wilderness relies on creating sustainable enterprise where local communities and national parks coexist. The Mozambique Government’s landmark decision to grant the Chemucane Community an ecotourism concession in the Maputo Special Reserve has resulted in such an opportunity. The Chemucane Tourism Company – CTC is a joint venture formed between the Chemucane community and the Bell Foundation, a philanthropic trust established for the benefit of the local community.

With funding from the World Bank and the Bell and Ford Foundations, CTC which has built and operates Anvil Bay beach camp, has already created great benefit for the community in terms of skills transfer, construction and hospitality jobs and the purchase of local materials, produce and services. In an area with little previous economic opportunity a sustainable enterprise now exists.

All benefits from your holiday accrue to the community while concession fees go to support conservation efforts in the park making Anvil Bay the perfect responsible tourist destination.”