Dugong Beach Lodge
Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary San Sebastian Peninsula, Vilanculos 1304 Mozambique
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#4 of 9 hotels in Vilanculos
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Located on 30 000 hectares of pristine Marine and Wildlife territory, it provides a unique Beach & Wilderness Experience in a hidden corner of sub-tropical Africa. This diverse eco-system of wilderness and wetland, with its powder white beaches and crystal clear water is host to a magnificent array of fish, dolphin and most importantly, the nearly extinct "Atlantic Dugong" (which resembles a sea lion). Shallow and deep water reefs reveal beautiful creatures such as the great leatherback turtles, sailfish and manta ray. Deep-sea fishing of marlin and barracuda is truly spectacular and the large flocks of flamingos and pelicans are a sight to behold.
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Property amenities
Free internet
Pool
Bar / lounge
Beach
Boating
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids club
Airport transportation
Wifi
Hot bath
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Plunge pool
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Poolside bar
Canoeing
Diving
Hiking
Snorkelling
Windsurfing
Fishing
Spa
Couples massage
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Neck massage
Pedicure
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Convenience store
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
24-hour check-in
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Room features
Allergy-free room
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Private beach
Housekeeping
Minibar
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower
Bathrobes
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Laptop safe
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
Ocean view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, Portuguese
Location
Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary San Sebastian Peninsula, Vilanculos 1304 Mozambique
Getting there
Car HireSee all Vilanculos car hire
87Reviews2Q+A23Room tips
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If, to you, exclusivity is comercialised consumer luxury, then this may not be the place for you. However if you want to experience serenity, relaxation and peace in a wonderfully secluded, safe location with both beach and wildlife at your doorstep, all the while being pampered by a wonderful group of people, then this is your place. Winpie is on hand right from the airport to guide you and encourage you to take part in any activity which might appeal. Not all are free, but all are worth it. The guided bushwalks (free) are amazing and highly recommended, as is the dhow sundowner cruise (not free). In the lodge you are totally spoiled and pampered both by front of house staff (special mention to Arturo, Alfonso, Samuel and Henriques) and those behind the scenes. Roberto's cooking is delicious. Do your research however! You'll be staying in a nature reserve on a remote island off a remote town in a remote country in Africa - It's powered by generator which cannot be run 24/7. There is every attempt to make you comfortable whilst the power is down ( 11pm -6am and 9.30ish am - 6pm). Enjoy being disconnected - it's so freeing and relaxing. Bring bug spray and suncream, take non powered entertainment (a book folks! There is a book exchange onsite) Don't expect hot and cold running champagne - while every effort is made to cater to your wants, it's not always possible to provide. Your every need is catered to, just not perhaps all your first world wants. To sum up, staying at the Dugong is an absolutely fantastic experience, the word that springs to mind is paradise. Absolutely unforgettable, for all the right reasons!…
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Date of stay: March 2020
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: The end rooms have 2 private balconies, perfect for catching breezes and avoiding the sun
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 24 Mar 2020
Dear Anne, We cannot you enough for the thorough & detailed feedback after your recent stay at Dugong Beach Lodge. It gives us great joy to read that you enjoyed the remoteness, the serenity, the wildlife experience and the African Hospitality that accompanies our lodge. Our lodge is indeed very secluded and "disconnected" in a good way & we are so incredibly thrilled that this was one of the highlights of your visit. Thank you for your wonderful compliments on our general manager Wimpie, he always ensures that the guests have stories to tell when they return home. Your kind comments on the rest of our team is also highly appreciated, it makes us proud to read that they spoiled you and did their very best to make every moment comfortable & relaxing. We hope to welcome you back again soon to paradise along the San Sebastian Peninsula! Kind regards The Legend Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
What a magical place to spend a week or more... From the pick up at the airport, the room by the beach, the food, the hospitality, the horses, everything was above expectations. Madri and Wimpie, Manager of the lodge and Manager of the stables, took very good care of me and made my week more than magical. I experienced local life going on horseback rides in the bushes, encountering zebras, eland, gnou! and meeting local people (especially amazing children). We swam with horses, and this was a beautiful experience... The staff at the lodge is the most reliable and nicest people. Always a smile, always a nice word. The lodge itself is such a precious place. It is peaceful and beautiful. Grateful for such an incredible week.
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Date of stay: January 2020
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: All rooms have beach access and beach view from the private balcony/deck.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Guest Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 28 Jan 2020
Dear Laura, Thank you for choosing to spend your precious holiday time with us! It was an absolute pleasure hosting you and we thank you for your detailed feedback and compliments on the rooms, service, meals, location and activities. We are thrilled to read that the overall experience was "magical" and that it exceeded all expectations, especially your time on horseback. Your kind words truly mean a lot to the entire team and we look forward to making your next visit to Dugong Beach Lodge another memorable one! Kind regards The Dugong Beach Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
From the moment we met Madri at the airport, our holiday really began. We were blown away by the location of the beach lodge. Our welcome was so special as we docked outside. We felt very welcome!! The lodge is a real paradise. Beautifully kept, quality furnishings and has everything you need. Even a little library, board games and chess which my children enjoyed. The accommodation is beautiful. The rooms are first class. Lovely shower, comfy beds with mosquito nets. Gorgeous views of the beach. The small spa is lovely and treated myself to 2 massages which was bliss! The pool is lovely and there was floats and snorkels for the children. My youngest also appreciated the sandpit. The food was amazing and I can’t believe there was such choice given the location. The chef was superb and even made a cake for my son’s birthday. The bar by the pool was great and stocked well. The staff were simply amazing. So proud and truly looked after us. So friendly and nothing was too much trouble. We went on the fishing village excursion which was beautiful and lovely to see local people. My husband and son also swam with the horses which again was magical. Unforgettable. The kids enjoyed the banana boat rides! I particularly enjoyed the boat trip to a nearby island. On our last night we had a special dinner with the most amazing fresh fish and lobster. Such a treat. Watching the stars and sunset (the lodge is west facing!) - what more could you want. We felt totally refreshed and so lucky to find this special place. Thank you! Hope to see you again. …
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Date of stay: January 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 27 Jan 2020
Dear Krachelwood, We would like to thank you for taking the time to rate & provide detailed feedback of your recent stay at Dugong Beach Lodge. We are delighted to read that your "holiday in paradise" exceeded prospects on all levels and that all of the elements, from the food and the service to the activities and accommodation lived up to expectations! Thank you for your kind compliments on the little touches, such as the library & board games as well as the experience and service received from our spa. We also appreciate your wonderful feedback on the meals and Roberto and his team's incredible work. Our entire team takes such pride in their what they do and they would be over the moon to read that this has not gone unnoticed. It warms our hearts to read that all of the activities were thoroughly enjoyed by the entire family and that you found peace in relaxation on this little patch of paradise in the San Sebastian Peninsula. We look forward to welcoming you back again soon for yet another unforgettable experience at the mesmerizing Dugong Beach Lodge. Kind regards The Dugong Beach Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Do not be fooled by the ‘air conditioning’ feature of this resort. It is only on for a few hours in the morning and evenings which makes sleeping at night or afternoons very difficult. Electricity is cut off due to generator noise from 11.00pm to 6.30am and from 10.00am to 6.00pm. It is a beautiful resort but very poorly managed by a couple who do not understand housekeeping (had to request for sheets on our bed twice, not shampoo and body wash, no shower mat, face washer... just 2 towels). They also cannot manage their stock levels (no beans for coffee machine, no more yoghurts for our first breakfast, no bread for one of our lunch, no more juice, no more beer...) New Year’s Eve was a disaster. After providing guests with a meal, we were left with no entertainment from 9.00pm to 12.00pm when we were then served a glass of sparkling wine. A little music would have sufficed as guests were keen on partying. Unfortunately, the resort was very quiet for these 3 long hours. After complaining to the couple who managed the resort, we were offered our laundry cleaning for free and our horse riding activity which were were initially charged full price when we could only enjoy for 5mn instead of 1 hour due to unavailability of the horses. The manager charged our credit card twice on the last day. That was the cherry on top of the cake. On a good note, the wait and bar staff was very friendly, the resort is beautiful although needs a few repairs, the view is amazing. It’s just a shame it is poorly managed. …
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Date of stay: January 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2 Helpful votes
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 8 Jan 2020
Dear Ms Pavageau Thank you for taking the time to rate & review your recent experience at Dugong Beach Lodge. Constructive feedback assists us in constantly improving the overall guest experience for future visitors. Thank you for your kind feedback and compliments on the location, service and staff members, this is highly appreciated! We are however saddened to read that the overall stay did not live up to your initial expectations of our resort. Due to our remote location within the untouched & beautiful Vilanculos Coastal & Wildlife Sanctuary and along the Bazaruto Archipelago we are unfortunately dependant on generator power for operations. Our generator operation times are: 07:00 to 11:00, 14:00 to 15:00, 18:00 to 23:00. At Dugong Beach Lodge we usually provide amenities in the room including, body lotion, shampoo and bars of soap. Upon arrival we had unfortunately run out of stock but had placed complimentary Body Scrub and Body Butter from our spa within the rooms. Our management team also provided ya full bottle of shampoo and on the second day of your stay soap was replenished &place in the room. In the room you were also provided with face cloths as well as bath/shower mats, two small towels and two large towels. All of our beds are equipped with fitted sheets and after communicating your disappointment that there was no flat sheet our management team tried their best to assist. Our lodge has a wide variety of options for hot beverages including a variety of normal coffees, filter coffee, hot chocolate and teas. Although coffee beans were not available for the first two days of your stay, the coffee beans had been replenished upon the third day when our team members stocked up in Vilankulos. Yoghurt was available and replenished every morning with the buffet breakfast as confirmed by our management team and the juice was replenished by the next day after stock levels had lowered. Our management team mentioned your dismay in the fact that we did not have fireworks for New Year’s Eve, where after they explained that due to our location being within a protected area, this was not allowed. Before the meal our management team ensured a lovely drumming performance for the guests where most of the guests joined in, in the fun and dancing. Our team also placed picnic blankets on our private beach and swimming pool with lanterns for guests to enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of our location. Music was playing at the bar, where champagne was served for the countdown and continued to play until 01:30AM when all the guests had gone to bed. Our team truly did their best to make it a special New Year’s Eve to remember for the guests at Dugong Beach Lodge. Seeing that most of our horses were out on horseback safari with Pegasus Retreats, the time for this activity was limited. For this reason and to be able to give each guest the opportunity the time on the horses were shortened. Initially your family was however only charged for 1 person and there after this activity along with the laundry was offered complimentary. Our management team explained that due to the poor signal the first payment did not go through, the machine was “posted” to ensure that nothing had already been deducted. There after a second attempt was made and successful. After you had contacted Madri concerning this, we double checked and confirmed that only one payment had been done and posted to the bank - as you will also be able to confirm on your end. Although we do understand that the overall experience did not live up to expectations we still thank you for providing us with feedback. Kind regards The Dugong Beach Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Exotic destination with crystal clear blue beaches. The food is fresh and out of this world delicious. We loved the island excursion to Pansy islands. The staff were not only friendly, but also very accommodating to make our stay a memorable experience.
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Date of stay: October 2019
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 24 Oct 2019
Dear Hayley, We would like to thank you for your kind feedback after your recent visit to Dugong Beach Lodge. It gives us great joy to read that you thoroughly enjoyed the food, location, service. We are thrilled to read that we had a hand in making your experience with us a memorable one! We look forward to welcoming you again soon in the near future! Kind regards The Dugong Beach Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We were greeted at the airport by the general manager, after a short boat trip over crystal clear water we arrived at the lodge and were greeted by friendly staff members who were singing and playing musical instruments. The staff were friendly, warm and extremely accommodating people. The venue is situated in a bay, with the most amazing sunsets. We watched these while sitting around a fire, sipping G&T’s every night. Rooms are clean, comfortable and luxurious, and equipped with mosquito nets, air conditioning and a ceiling fan which all came in handy. The beauty therapist at the spa gave some of the best massages I’ve had so far. The food for me was the high light of our trip: fresh, tasty and plentiful, Chef Roberto personalizes his dishes to your likes and requests. We had two excursions: snorkeling at Bazaruto Island and deep sea fishing. Both were extremely rewarding and worth every cent. We also had the opportunity to do some horse riding along the coast, which was also my first time riding a horse on a beach and an amazing experience. I would highly recommend this lodge. We will be back for our anniversaries to come.…
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Date of stay: October 2019Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 13 Oct 2019
Dear Cherise, We would like to thank you for choosing Dugong Beach Lodge as your honeymoon destination! We are absolutely thrilled to read that you had such a special time with us and that your expectations were met on all levels from the service and accommodation to the activities and the location. Your kind compliments on the freshly prepared seafood by Chef Roberto, friendliness of the staff and the horse riding experience is highly appreciated. We look forward to welcoming you back again soon to paradise on the East-African Seaboard. Kind regards The Dugong Beach Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
From the word go, we had issues with Dugong. When we met the boat, our bags were dropped in the ocean. This was an accident, fair enough but unfortunately the bag which was really wet was the one with all our baby gear. My wife, my 14 month old son and myself were going there for our honeymoon. My wife, important to add was pregnant at the time. Once we were on the boat, we were told that we would be waiting there for other guests, for about an hour. I said this isn’t ok because my wife is pregnant and we have a baby with us. The skipper then pointed to a tree on the land and told us to wait there. Immediately on getting to that tree, we were told to get back to the boat because the other guests were delayed. We got on the way then which was great. When I was making the booking, I was particular about booking a cot. I was informed that one was reserved for us. When we went to the room, we discovered that there wasn’t a cot so we asked one of the staff to bring it. He returned with a stretcher bed. I explained why this wasn't suitable for a young baby and asked them to bring the cot. They returned with a box and some pillows. Long story short, he slept between us for the time we were there. We never wanted our son to sleep in our bed. I am an active sleeper. Many times, I awoke on top of him so I failed to sleep well there. The “sanctuary” that Dugong is based in is not quite what it seems. It’s full of “private houses" which are actually fully operational, high end lodges. You can hear machinery all over the area. Our room was unfortunately next to the place where all these lodges park their boats. Tractors and vehicles were moving in and out, constantly. Many people making a lot of noise too. I asked for a gin and tonic on my first night. Due to people coming in drinking from these “private houses" the bar at Dugong had ran out of tonic. I was told not to worry because a ‘re supply was coming the next day, along with our cot. It came with tonic but no cot and that same night I went to get a g&t, I was informed that they had now ran out of gin. Food, in my opinion was good. My wife didn't enjoying much though, apart from the breakfasts. They advertise non motorised activities such as sailing and fishing in the bay on their website which was part of the reason we booked to go there but found none of these activities are available. I emailed the man who handled our reservation and requested that we leave early. I didn’t mention a refund but none the less, they ignored me. I told the manager that we have a lot of constructive criticisms for them and we didn’t want to go on social media, rather just let them know directly. I told him verbally some of the issues we faced and he was apologetic and advised I take it up with head office. I have sent several emails to them bit to the day, not a single reply or acknowledgment. There were many other issues we faced there bit I’m not going to list them all out. You get the message. The Lodge itself, I am sure was once a great destination. I would love to go and take it on, it’s so beautiful. They are however charging far too much money for what they actually offer on the ground. This sanctuary is obviously a massive scam. I was pleased, on one of my walks to see an Olive Bee eater. Aside from that we found birding to be nothing special. I now owe my wife another, stress free honeymoon. Paramountly, I just can’t believe that we have been ignored..it’s inexcusable to take a booking, lie about the facilities and then just close the door on your clients. These people, the “Legend group" have a lot to learn about hospitality…
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Date of stay: May 2019Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from LegendHospitality, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 11 Jun 2019
Dear Paul Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback after your stay. We are very disheartened with the feedback received and would like to apologise from the offset that your experience was anything less satisfactory. We would like to confirm that your feedback has been escalated to senior management and a full investigation has been launched. We will revert with directly with detailed feedback as soon as possible. Kind Regards The Legends Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I almost never write reviews, but after a week long nightmare staying at dugong lodge for ourhoneymoon, it is clear that it has been the WORST MISTAKE OF MY LIFE. Says air conditionig, but try to survive in 30+ weather when there is only one henerator that they randomly shut off to ‘give it a break’ as they say, no hot water. Once complained, no water at all for 12 hrs. Toilet seats cracked with mold on them, no tv access, (the one in the clubhouse doesnt work) . They ration water heavily, and downsized the daily amount, or pay big $. Charged for even asking for a glass at breakfast or lunch, Goway travel was the booking company, but PAUL TRAVEL WAS OUR AGENT. Despite bringing issues to attention, resort tried their best to reduce blackouts and provide more food, but after 7 days of worst sleeping ever, covered in insect bites (no screens on windows) , so durring blackouts room be omes unberrable . I feel sorry for the staff who do try their best to alleviate our concerns, but no refunds when we wanted to move is enough to NEVER RECOMMEND STAYING HERE, or using Paul Travel. If you wish to discard this honest rating, go ahead, but i assure you it will RUIN YOUR VACATION. Have i ever learned a hard lesson about using a travel agent called ‘Paul travel’ !…
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Date of stay: September 2018Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2 Helpful votes
Helpful
Response from Legend H, General Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 4 Oct 2018
Dear hippiestew We sincerely apologize for your experience during your stay with us. We are aware of the problems that occurred with respect to the failure of the water pumps during your stay that resulted in the sporadic water supply. The remoteness of the location on this archipelago does mean we rely on generators for both water and electricity. The failure of these mechanical units has never occurred before and was dealt with to the best of the team’s ability. We are currently investigating various solar options as a backup to this problem should it ever occur in future. Apologies for the toilet seat and mould, which is absolutely unacceptable. This is not the standard that we strive to provide and can confirm that this was addressed by the general manager. Although we do not have screens on the windows of our villas we do have mosquito nets covering the beds, insect repellent is provided in the rooms and the area is frequently sprayed with pesticides to minimise the amount of mosquitoes in the area. Thank you for mentioning our staff members who did everything they could to alleviate your concerns, considering the unusual circumstances that have not occurred to date. Thank you for all the feedback, we would never discard your review as this provides us with the opportunity to shed light on what occurred during your stay. We would like to get in touch with the agent who facilitated your booking with regards to your request to move. We are truly sorry for the experience you had during your honeymoon and would also like to get in touch with you directly. Please contact us at marketingmgr@legendlodges.co.za Kind Regards The Dugong Beach Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
the rooms are very comfortable, the staff are charming and try hard, Roberto delivers smashing food. we were unlucky that the winds were high so we couldn't partake in the water sports but relaxed, ate and drank in between reading books and conversing. what holidays are for. great boat trip to get to the resort and discovered late in the day that we could have gone horse riding. they need to promote what they have to offer. few maintenance problems and avoid the house wine. the view changes all the time as the tide leaves sand banks which you can visit and a few hours later its a sea. the generator was switched off after breakfast and lunch which meant no internet and the high winds prevented you from doing much else. we loved it despite that.
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Date of stay: August 2018Trip type: Travelled with family
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: room 14 was great as we had windows on three sides
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from Bridget V, Public Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 4 Sep 2018
Dear Weemacs Thank you for your wonderful rating and lovely review of Dugong Beach Lodge. We are thrilled to hear that your overall stay with us was a pleasant one! Thank you for also providing feedback on the rooms, communication and house wine. Your comments have been escalated to management. We hope to welcome you back again soon for a peaceful getaway to paradise. Kind regards The Dugong Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Earlier trip in April ‘18 to Mozambique. Stayed at the Dugong Beach Lodge, Vilanculos. I’m afraid I cannot recommend this “resort “ ( a lofty description that the est is aiming for but sadly lacking ) it started initially with NOT being met at the airport to be taken to water craft which would then whisk us across to the lodge for our first of four nights adventure. Despite having demanded full upfront payment and our telephonic confirmation the night before our early morning flight, they failed to tell us that “they couldn’t accommodate guests that particular day of our arrival due to no power supply” No we had to stand and wait at the airport until a driver from a local hotel meeting one of their guests took pity on us and started making enquirers on our behalf , after taking us to the Dona Ana Hotel (a pit stop to catch the speedboat to dugong beach)stayed the one night there which was quaint but quite lovely with very attentive friendly staff. Following day, made it to the Lodge where a greeting song is performed by all the staff who are dutifully lined up on the pier, all clapping and singing as you very awkwardly wade thru the water, scramble up rocks to ultimately make it to reception . In summary, the generators operate from 6am-12pm and from 5pm-11pm. No television, radio etc , make your own fun kids, or pay for every single activity except for walking up the beach. We desired only to snorkel with dolphins as the advert proclaimed, and the manager gushed how “there was just the place “ we’d be taken on our agreed day, with a prepared lunch, to some isolated secluded beach . The best thing I can say was I did SEE a few dolphins on our way out to this destination, however, this was no secluded beach as we attempted to find a spot along the rocky waters edge that wasn’t tourist infested. Local kids were spear fishing not far from where we were informed we could paddle , and this did nothing to inspire my confidence nor courage, as, although I’m a strong enough swimmer, I’m a novice at best when it comes to snorkeling, relying on the man to keep my anxiety at bay . Well, imagine what went thru my mind once in the water and realized that as it was the thoroughfare for all the water crafts. The water reeked of gasoline and it was thick with churned up muck and one could not see more than two inches in front of your face when snorkeling was attempted. What I COULD see was what looked like a mini Lock Ness monster leaping out of the water and coming straight at me (of course!) I don’t think I’ve swum that fast since my high school completion days ! Overall, I understand the premise of accommodating fewer guests than what one would usually expect given that the chef prepares each guests meal individually, personally. That’s right, no menus, Just tell the chef what you feel like eating. Of course one must consider what produce may or may not be available . “The man” was in shellfish heaven, up to his eyeballs in prawns and lobsters , all caught locally that day and done to perfection ( his words ). I can vouch for the heat of the curries made for me and for a $ you can purchase a large jar of chefs Acha? ( chili chutney ) ( yes I have some in my fridge still !) the staff couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful, one giving me a box full of Sand dollars to take back with me ( for $ but he scoured for them ) we amused the staff by setting up the telescope out on the main deck so as they too could check out the heavens above , as we had been doing on the previous evenings. This aspect I do enjoy, seeing the wonder in others faces upon first looking into a telescope. Our bungalow was lovely, being right at the very end of the complex, so quite private and secluded. We had our own plunge pool which really did plunge ! With the water reaching a depth of 7ft! The pool looked straight out to the beach and water, so definitely a most pleasant way to while away ones time. If you enjoy just hiking and meandering around, then there’s plenty to do with your days, otherwise, to keep entertained be prepared to keep putting your hand in your pocket! Horse riding, snorkeling , boat rides, deep sea fishing ; well everything except walking and reading, will set you back . If, this still appeals to you , plan your trip around the weather, as you shouldn’t open your room windows at night due to the insects and as there’s no power during the night it can get quite oppressive during the summer months . It was incredibly windy the period of time when we stayed, which almost saw activities such as swimming ( I’m tenacious !) and the snorkeling go awry. Now, as you’re pretty much made aware of most of the above “conditions “ as such prior to arriving none of this should come as a huge shock , however if they charge the big bucks as they do then it’s my belief they should in turn deliver the same in return re service . Don’t let you leave disappointed nor expecting a 5 star review from me! When we spoke to the manager about our disease re the snorkeling trip not meeting expectations more over not being taken to the designated destination but instead, somewhere apparently “easier “ and closer , we were assured that we weren’t to be billed for that activity. On THIS the manager did fulfill . To be honest, I would have preferred if we had been taken to the correct beach and had enjoyed an idyllic day out with dolphins ! The next item of concern we brought up was reimbursement for the hotel stay at the Dona Ana for the first night when they had failed to pick us up at the airport. They had assured us initially then that this wasn’t an issue, and of course we would and SHOULD be reimbursed. Don’t forget, we’d already paid in full for our stay at Dugong Beach. So in effect, we’ve paid for two room for one night . But , the manager appeared to be so sincere in his assurances that all would be rectified and yes , much needed to be improved upon to reach those high standards they professed to possess and he was already discussing how with our next stay, if we booked in advance we’d get the bungalow of our choice and like pay for three, stay for five nights. Anyways, suffice to say, good thing we didn’t hold our breath as despite many emails of enquires, there has been no reimbursement and therefore tho we have been back to Mozambique, (see Polano Serena Spa, Maputo) there will not ever be a return visit to Dugong Beach Lodge …
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Date of stay: April 2018Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from Bridget V, Guest Relations Manager at Dugong Beach Lodge
Responded 5 Sep 2018
Dear Nikki Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review of your stay at Dugong Beach Lodge. We are truly sorry to hear that your experience with us was not the legendary stay we strive to create for our guests. Thank you for your detailed description which will make it easier for us to investigate all of the comments listed. Your entire review has been escalated to our General Manager & Group Operations Director for feedback. Could you possibly provide us with contact details through which we can communicate wit you? You are welcome to send this to ane.ve@legendlodges.co.za. Thank you we truly appreciate it! Kind regards The Legend Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ALSO KNOWN AS
dugong beach hotel vilanculos
LOCATION
MozambiqueInhambane ProvinceVilanculos
NUMBER OF ROOMS
14
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Claim Your ListingDUGONG BEACH LODGE: See 74 Hotel Reviews and 193 Photos (Vilanculos, Mozambique) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Dugong Beach Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Dugong Beach Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Dugong Beach Lodge?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and blackout curtains.
What food & drink options are available at Dugong Beach Lodge?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and a poolside bar during their stay.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Dugong Beach Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Dugong Beach Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Dugong Beach Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Dugong Beach Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Portuguese.
Does Dugong Beach Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.