While we are in the middle of a global pandemic I can think of nothing nicer than escaping to the tropical Indian Ocean Island of Benguerra. Imagine blue skies everyday and endless white beaches where ‘social distancing’ occurs naturally. And an ocean so vast and blue that seeing it from air is the only way to fully appreciate its beauty. 

We had a short stay on this island at the start of our honeymoon. With plenty of land safari to come so we decided to spend our time exploring the waters rather than the interior of the island. Our cabana was located on this stunning beach, and with local dhows ready to bring us on sunset cruises it definitely was a few days to remember. But what we will remember most were some unexpected guests on one of our diving trips.

Benguerra Island is located in the protected marine reserve of the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park. The chance to scuba dive in these pristine waters was our main reason for visiting.

For our first dive we set off on a bumpy boat ride to Two Mile Reef. I had a slight head cold so during the dive I struggled to equalise and was battling against an intense headache. Despite the huge variety and large schools of fish, I was finding it hard to enjoy the experience and was happy when it was time return to the surface. I hoped that with some time on the boat I would be able to clear my head and enjoy my second, shallower dive. As we started to relocate to the next site, called the Aquarium, a blow of water appeared from the exact spot we had been diving. Two large humpback whales started to breech.

Dumbfounded at what we had just missed seeing under the water the boat stopped and we watched them. The whales were moving at immense speed and came straight for us.

I scrambled to get my camera out of the dry storage and holding on to a railing with one hand I took as many photos as I could.  The captain had to keep moving to stay out of their way but they kept coming in our direction. The boat rocked from side to side as the huge creatures swam beside the boat. Eventually one of them jumped out of the water right beside us and sent a huge wave of water crashing down onto the boat. At that moment I didn’t even worry about the soaked camera, I was too busy cheering their every move. The speed and agility of these creatures was exhilarating to watch. But seeing the sheer size and power of these humpback whales was enough and I was relieved that we hadn’t gotten in their way while doing our safety stop in the water. 

How we got there:

London - Johannesburg (South Africa), Johannesburg - Vilanculos (Mozambique) 

Vilanculos - Benguerra Island by fixed wing light aircraft

Time of year we visited and climate experienced:

July - mild weather, wind factor made it feel colder then the average of 25 degrees.

Accommodation details

Benguerra Lodge (Relaxing, isolated and the food was amazing!)

Diving
We used the on site dive shop who are PADI affiliated.

Camera and lens

Canon 5 DMark II EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM

Travel agent

Mahlatini Travel