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.
Medical emergencies
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.
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
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.
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
