South-African owned Aguia Negra has been going since 1992, but was almost entirely rebuilt after a typhoon hit the Vilanculos coastline in 2010. It’s a pleasant and affordable  place (one of the best-value Vilanculos options), and is located on the edge of town on higher ground that rolls down towards the ocean.

There’s a range of accommodation options on offer here, including 12 family chalets that cost 2250 Mets per person per night. They are simple but attractive, and some have tall thatched roofs that tally with your wildest “getting away from it all” dreams. The family chalets come with functioning air-conditioning units, fans, and mosquito nets, as well as small bathrooms. Some have bunk beds reachable by rustic wooden ladders, but if you’re travelling with young kids or babies, you can request suitable cots. There are also 12 double rooms in a separate building that resemble more basic resort-style accommodation. Those cost 4870 Mets per room, and some of them have bath tubs.

Airport transfers can be arranged for 200 Mets per person, and there’s a big onsite restaurant that serves up comfort food, South African favorites, simple seafood plates, and chocolate cake for dessert. A lounge area has sofas and glossy magazines, while the bar is a good place to catch a soccer game; but it can get a little tacky during the high season.

The Big Blue Diving Center is also on premises, which organizes trips out to the islands and reefs.

All in all, Aguia Negra is a perfectly decent option for a low-budget stay in Vilanculos. It’s popular with regulars, especially families, and everyone seems to know each other. If you’re looking for something more Mozambican, or a quiet lodge with fine dining, this isn’t it; staying here, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve accidentally wandered into a low-budget lodge in South Africa.