Barra Lodge is set in one of the most picturesque areas in Mozambique, with spectacular views of pristine beaches and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Situated 485km north of Maputo, access by road is a pleasant drive by tarred road which is suitable for the passage of a normal vehicle. However, the last 7km's leading to the lodge is a sand road where a 4x4 is necessary. Those with normal vehicles will be collected from our safe parking area. One may fly to Inhambane, the tarred runways and airports are well serviced. Customs and immigration are available.

Barra has secluded, unspoilt beaches, bordered by the Inbambane estuary on one side and the sea on the other. The lodge is nestled among groves of coconut trees, all rooms have exquisite beach and sea views. The warm Indian Ocean offers safe bathing all year round. The wide open, squeaky clean beaches offer endless hours of strolling pleasure. Boat launching is smooth and easy. Ski boat fishing is excellent and Barra is a venue of frequent game fishing competitions. The largely unexplored reefs within close proximity to the lodge offers endless pleasure for scuba-diving and snorkeling.

ACCOMMODATION: The accommodation at Barra Lodge is comfortable.There are various options of accommodation that meet each individual's needs.

CASITAS:Barra has 19 Casitas and 1 Family Casita. Our traditional Casitas made of thatch, brick and reeds create a charming atmosphere. The Casitas are fitted with two beds, a shower and toilet, en suite. All have sea views and are a stones throw from the beach.

SELF CATERING COTTAGES: 20 Self catering cottages.Each cottage has its two bedrooms, lounge come dining room area, kitchen, shower and separate toilet. There are six comfortable single beds. The shower has hot and cold water. All the basic amenities are supplied including a fridge, 2 plate gas stove, cutlery, crockery, pots, pans, utensils and bedding linen. The cottages are serviced daily. This traditional style of accommodation sets the scene for an unforgettable holiday.

RESTAURANT: While you relax to the sight and the sound of the waves gently breaking on the shore, indulge your taste buds at our restaurant. Fresh seafood dominates the menu with prawns, calamari and fresh line fish remaining the ever popular favourites.

BEACH BAR: A very popular meeting point. The tropical beach bar creates an atmosphere of relaxation where the best fisherman's yarns are heard. Here you are invited to gather in the evenings to watch the beautiful sunsets, participate in beach volley ball, pub games or simply sip and enjoy exotic cocktails. Pub lunches and snacks are served daily.

ACTIVITIES

SNORKELING: Mask, snorkel and fins are available for hire at the dive centre. Snorkel along the reef and enjoy the myriad of colourful reef fish, fascinating corals, and other marine life.

SCUBA DIVING: We have a fully equipped dive centre with all necessary facilities including indoor training pool, kitting up room, filling station, rest areas, kit storage, lecture and first aid. Our resident diving instructors offer professional tuition. Resort, open water 1 and advanced courses are on offer. Equipment may be hired at a nominal charge. We have a number of reefs, some close pinnacles and some further away. Dive depths vary from 8 metres to 30 metres offering a variety of diving experiences. Commonly seen are mantas, whale sharks, turtles, a huge variety of reef fish and for the lucky a sighting of the rare dugong.

CATAMARAN YACHT: Our luxury 33 foot, live aboard catamaran offers unforgettable day trips from our secluded bay. The yacht moors alongside coral reefs for snorkelling and diving. It cruises the flat waters of the estuary, stopping for a picnic on a secluded beach before gently heading for home.

CHARTER BOAT FISHING: Our experienced resident fisherman are on hand to introduce you to our excellent fishing waters. A huge diversity of game fish abound in these waters including sail fish and marlin, this has made is the prime destination for fishing competitions. Our ski boats offer the latest equipment and tackle to give you the edge on catching the big one. We encourage tag and release.

DHOW TRIPS: Take a trip on a dhow, and feel a great sense of history as the dhows are still built as in ancient times. This is something that must be experienced before this age old art dies out.

MANGROVE: Adjacent to the lodge is the salt water mangrove with crystal clear waters, here one can explore by boat or foot. This ecosystem is made up of a fascinating chain of pioneering and sacrificial plants together with a huge array of crustaceans. Flocks of flamingos, the local fish traps and stunning sunsets over the estuary makes this a photographers dream.

SIGHTSEEING: Inhambane city is steeped in history. First founded by Vasco da Gama in 1534 it was the most southerly slave port used by the Arabs. The cathedrals, the old colonial Portuguese architecture, the African culture and local market places all make it a fascinating town to browse around. A number of restaurants in and around Inhambane give a variety of options.

HORSE RIDING: Enjoy a romantic stroll along the beach or an exhilarating gallop through the coconut plantations on our rider friendly horses

QUAD BIKES: Take a long tour through the local plantations visiting secluded beaches - great fun for young and old alike. (Note we do not allow beach riding.)

DRESS: Being in the tropics it rarely gets cold. Dress is casual at all times. A track suit or jersey is recommended in case of occasional cool evenings. Sun hat, cap and sun protection lotion are recommended.

WEATHER: The area is relatively dry, with an average yearly rainfall of 1000mm. The rainy season is between November and March and usually occurs as short, sharp showers. The climate is suitable for all year holidays with summer being hot and winter being slightly cooler. Temperatures can be up to 30°C in summer and 22°C in winter. Sea water temperature varies from 23°C to 29°C.

OTHER INFORMATION:

Passports and visas are required for all passport holders. No firearms are allowed to be brought into Mozambique. The currency used in Mozambique is Meticais. Rands and US$ are widely accepted in Mozambique. Barra Lodge accepts both credit cards and Rands and major currencies. Travelers cheques and cash can be exchanged at local banks. Be cautious when changing money at the Mozambique border post as you may be ripped off.

Malaria Profolaxis is a MUST in Mozambique. Some strains of parasites in Mozambique are resistant to Chloroquin. Speak to your doctor for advice on which drug treatment programme will best suit your family. There are Homeopathic alternatives available. For further information contact Marie-Louise at Health Perfect on +27 11 315-2155.Linksfield Malaria Clinic +27 11 647-3400.