After loading up and translocating a deconstructed swimming pool across the sandy roads of Mozambique’s Maputo National Park, the team successfully arrives at Membene Lodge. Building a lodge, or any infrastructure, in remote areas in the bush certainly comes with its challenges, but as the last piece of the puzzle is finally put in place, the hard work, sweat and maybe even tears all become worth it.
More About Membene
Tucked away within the coastal dune forests of Maputo National Park, Membene Lodge blends in seamlessly with its environment. With nature being front and centre here, great care was taken to incorporate as much of its natural surroundings as possible, including not cutting down a single tree during its construction.
This open-planned and modern self-catering 72-bed lodge comprises of eight forest units, dune chalets, fully catered chalets and a beach-side restaurant. Of course, with the crystal-clear pool being the newest and last addition to the lodge, guests can now refresh with a quick dip during the hot summer months.
Once fully operational, the lodge is set to employ 24 permanent staff members from the neighbouring communities surrounding the park. This will provide them with long-term employment opportunities and help lift them out of poverty with increased access to healthcare, education and food on the table.
The Park’s Property
Despite having two other private concessions, each housing private 5-star lodges in Maputo National Park, Membene Lodge is special in that it will be the first park-owned property. This is part of a long-term development plan supported by Peace Parks Foundation and Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas.
Peace Parks is grateful to everyone who helped bring the lodge to life and proud to share that the first group of visitors have already walked through its doors. We look forward to welcoming new visitors to the lodge, enabling them to experience the magic that is Maputo National Park.
