andBeyond Benguerra Island, Quirimbas Archipelago Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  If you're traveling by car, start from the main town of Pemba, which is approximately 150 km away from the Quirimbas Archipelago's northern islands. Drive south on the EN1 highway towards the town of Metangula. From there, take the road to the coastal village of Vilankulo, where you'll find the nearest access point to Benguerra Island. The drive may take roughly 2-3 hours depending on road conditions. Make sure to refuel in Metangula, as services can be sparse. Follow the signs to Vilankulo and enjoy the scenic views along the coast.

• Public Transportation

  To travel via public transportation, take a chapa (shared minibus) from Pemba to Metangula. The journey can take 3-4 hours and costs around 150 MZN. Once in Metangula, you'll need to switch to another chapa or a local taxi to reach Vilankulo. From there, you can book a speedboat transfer to Benguerra Island, which typically costs around 1,500 MZN per person and takes about 20-30 minutes. It’s advisable to pre-book your speedboat transfer through your lodge or a local travel agency.

• Speedboat

  If you are already in Vilankulo, head to the beach where speedboats operate. There are several operators offering transfers to Benguerra Island. Prices can vary, but expect to pay around 1,500 MZN for a one-way trip. The journey usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Ensure to check the schedule in advance, as boat services may be affected by weather conditions.

• Helicopter Transfer

  For a more luxurious option, consider booking a helicopter transfer from Pemba to Benguerra Island. This service is offered by several companies and significantly reduces travel time to approximately 30 minutes. Prices typically start around 10,000 MZN per person. Advance booking is highly recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons.