Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
lodges, with well-spaced and spacious luxury chalets and villas near the beach. It's at the
centre of the island's western coastline, and offers the usual activities.
LODGE
Marlin Lodge $$$
Offline map
( in South Africa 012-940 4212;
www.marlinlodge.co.za
;
per person with full board
US$395-580)
Marlin Lodge has 17 sea-view chalets and a full range of activities. Unlike
most of the other island lodges, they don't charge a single supplement.
Azura at Gabriel's $$$
Offline map
( in South Africa 0767-050599;
www.azura-retreats.com
;
r per person with full board
US$575-875; )
A lovely setting, full facilities and accommodation in villas of
varying degrees of luxury.
RESORT
MAGARUQUE ISLAND
The original hotel on Magaruque was founded by tycoon-entrepreneur Joaquim Alves in
colonial days and was long a favoured haunt of the rich and famous. Completely refur-
bished (and in part newly built) accommodation is underway, but was not yet open at the
time of research. For now, the small island is ideal if you fancy relaxing on a patch of
tropical sand. It can be circled in a few hours, but bring plenty of shade or sunscreen.
There's also fine snorkelling in the crystal clear shallows just off the beach on the island's
southwestern corner.
SANTA CAROLINA ISLAND
The prettiest of the islands, with stands of palm and other vegetation, Santa Carolina was
formerly the site of another Joaquim Alves property. Today the old hotel is closed and
crumbling, although a renovation is planned, but in the meantime you can visit the island
as a day excursion. It's an easy walk around its perimeter, but snorkelling here - among
the best in the archipelago - is the highlight, and it is possible just offshore.
Information
Entry fees are normally collected by the island hotels, and in advance by most Vilankulo-
based dhow safari operators. Park headquarters are located at Sitone, on the western side
