Benguerra Island or Ilha de Benguerra was once a Portuguese penal colony and at roughly 11 km (7 miles) long by 5.5 km (3.5 miles) wide it is hard to imagine the archipelago’s second largest island as anything but paradise for the castaway. Extensive white sand beaches and towering sand dunes provide a perfect backdrop to the Bazaruto Archipelago’s major attraction, the sea. Snorkel and scuba dive. Kayak and sail. Head to the open waters and fish for marlin, kingfish and mackerel or partake in a whale watching tour. And should the kids require a break from deep-sea adventure, take a jeep tour of the interior and in addition to marveling at the forests and lakes spy on 164 species of birds. Or slow down the pace with a hunt for shells. And, at low tide, turn your stroll into a shallow water safari. Spot starfish, cowfish, seahorses and crabs and observe the local women as they fish for oysters while balancing their catch on the top of their head.