Nuarro is an owner-managed lodge at Memba Bay, about 380 kms south of Pemba, and just 180 kms north of Ilha de Mocambique as the crow flies. It is situated in a private 800-hectare wooded area on the tip of the Baixo do Pinda peninsula by a two-kilometre beach.
Accommodation
Twelve spacious thatched chalets are set along the dunes facing a beautiful crescent beach. The floor is raised to give a sea-view and a cooling breeze from your king-size bed. Alternatively, enjoy the view from your hammock or lounger on the private verandah. For families, the chalets have an upstairs area with twin beds.
Facilities
There is a beach bar and activity area, a restaurant with panoramic views, a cocktail bar, TV/DVD room and internet access.
Diving and marine activities
The four owners are keen divers, and this is reflected in the professional dive centre. There are fully-equipped dive boats (custom-built dhows) and professional instructors offer the full range of PADI dive courses. One great advantage of Nuarro is that you can dive and snorkel from the shore, and there is always access to the sea, even at low tide. Other marine activities include kayaking, through the mangroves or along the coast to deserted beaches, canoeing with picnic lunches, wakeboarding, fly and bottom fishing, dhow cruises and whale watching between June and November.
Land activities
One really interesting excursion is the day-trip to Ilha de Mocambique, just two-and-a-half hours away by 4WD. This World Heritage Site, the abandoned former capital of Mozambique, displays a mixture of Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili, Africa and Dutch influences. Another day-long excursion is through the bush to the famous Lurio Waterfalls, only accessible in the dry season. There are guided bush-trails, for walking or mountain-biking, early-morning walks and visits to the nearby villages.
Community
Nuarro was built by the local community, which has been involved in the project from its inception and are co-owners of the land. In addition to the employment and training opportunities, ANAN, the community association, receives $5 per bednight and $2 per activity. The community has been helped to develop agricultural and horticultural enterprises, and a community centre has been built.
Access
The easiest access is by charter flight from Pemba . Alternatively, a road transfer takes 6 hours. From Nampula, you can fly or travel overland (4 hours).
