Info and tips for planning your trip.

let the adventure begin

Getting here

Balistidae lies on the western tip of the Santa Maria Peninsula in southern Mozambique. The most convenient way of getting here is by boat. The adventure begins when you hop aboard Titan, our 28-foot deep sea fishing boat licensed to carry up to 12 passengers (plus crew) and luggage. Titan is fully seaworthy and fitted with a transponder VHF radio, life jackets, and all the required safety equipment. It also has a toilet, and there is sufficient dry seating for shelter from windy seas and side sprays. Your Skipper, Marcos - who has over 15 years of experience in sailing and skippering large boats – will ensure a safe and exhilarating 40km voyage from Maputo to Santa Maria. So, sit back and enjoy the hour-long boat ride across the bay. Guests flying into Maputo can be shuttled between the airport and the marina, and there are several quality restaurants to enjoy a meal before boarding. Balistidae can also be accessed by road. But strap yourselves in, because, even though it’s a beautiful four-hour journey, you’ll need a 4x4 to navigate the sandy tracks of the Maputo Special Reserve. Directions and co-ordinates are available on request.

Malaria

The whole of Mozambique is considered a high-risk malaria area. For malaria to spread, it needs concentrations of Anopheles mosquitos and a population of people infected with the disease. In the absence of either, or both, the chances of contracting the disease is reduced significantly. At Balistidae, we’re fortunate in that there’s no source of permanent fresh water close by, and the lodge is a good few kilometres from the closest permanent village. But we still take precautions by providing mosquito nets and complimentary mosquito repellent in every room. It is recommended that you speak to your doctor before your stay about taking prophylactics if you’re concerned about the health of you and your family.

Medical emergencies

Balistidae is situated in a remote area, so it is important to always take care and be sensible. There is a first aid kit on site for treating minor injuries. Any medical emergencies will be dealt with according to severity. Medical assistance for severe cases is not immediately available, and it may take time to get patients to proper medical facilities for emergency care. The clinic on Inhaca Island is capable of administering a drip and performing basic stabilisation. Should you sustain a severe injury or illness that requires emergency treatment, you’ll be transferred to Maputo by boat – unless bad weather at night prevents a safe crossing. Helicopters are also not easily dispatched in bad weather after dark.

Eating and drinking out

The best local restaurant and bar is Bemujis (pronounced ‘Bem-gees’). The rustic Mozambican vibe and feet-in-the-sand dining is an experience not to be missed. Specialities include all types of seafood, as well as Portuguese peri-peri chicken. Best accompanied by a rum-n-raspberry of course!

The beach bar south of Balistidae, just outside Nhonguane Lodge, is a worthy pit stop for enjoying a GnT, RnR or a cold local beer – of which 2M is the most renowned and refreshing.

If you happen to be passing through from the lodge towards town, stop and support one of the local baraccas. They serve ice-cold drinks with a big smile and enjoy the support of tourists.

Law enforcement

The local law enforcement officers have received a bad reputation over many years for their hostile attitude towards tourists and for soliciting bribes. Things are improving, but be sure to adhere to these simple guidelines:

Obey speed limits, traffic signals, and always wear a seat belt
Comply with requirements like compulsory third-party road insurance
Never drive on the beach
Get the relevant licences if you plan to fish or launch a boat
Respect law enforcement officials, but don’t be intimidated if you are not in the wrong. Remaining courteous but firm, shows you’re not a soft target for a bribe