Dunes de Dovela Eco Lodge
Vilanculos

Situated 80 km South of Inhambane, Dunes de Dovela Eco Lodge offers a barefoot experience on the wild and beautiful southern Mozambican coast. Owned and hosted by a French couple and well connected within the local community, Dunes de Dovela Eco Lodge is a community project with a difference. It took 4 years to train the local community and construct the lodge amongst the dunes and, while it is certainly rustic, it makes for a very special base for those looking to immerse themselves into a stunning natural environment and enjoy the dunes, the sea breeze and the serenity.  

Secluded at the end of a 12km track, the lodge is set in an elevated spot on top of the secondary dunes raising from the beach and the views stretch over the coastal virgin forest, undulating dunes and the bright blue Indian Ocean. There are two types of accommodation scattered amongst the dunes: Luxury Bungalows or Semi Luxury Dome Tents pitched on wooden platforms. The communal areas are within 40m to 80m from the accommodations and includes a reception, a restaurant serving “tropicalised” French cuisine, a bar and large patio, all with breath-taking views.

Marked foot paths and discrete wooden platforms criss-cross the 80 hectares of Dunes de Dovela. Walking is a highlight for guests of the lodge, and of course the pristine ocean beckons with a rocky reef near the lodge, perfect for snorkelling. From June to October, humpback whales can be seen from the lodge and there is amazing birdwatching year-round. Other activities include fishing from the shore, kayaking on the nearby lake and visits to the village.

A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.
Tim Cahill