Empowering investors to acquire, develop, and operate real estate
Benguela Ventures bridges these gaps with a holistic approach to acquisition, development, and operation, grounded in local expertise and deep market insight.
Investing in international real estate brings unique challenges
mitigating currency and economic fluctuations
building the right local network
navigating unfamiliar markets
understanding complex regulatory landscapes
why benguela?
In a similar way, Benguela Ventures aims to bring knowledge, capital, and practical expertise into beautiful yet underexplored markets, helping them grow and connecting opportunities between developed and emerging economies.
The name Benguela comes from the Benguela Current, which carries cold waters from the Antarctic up the west coast of Southern Africa. Along the way, nutrient-rich waters rise to the surface, supporting one of the world’s most productive marine ecosystems.
INSIGHT
-DRIVEN
Grounding decisions in thorough research and analysis
pragmatism
Turning strategies into actionable, results-oriented solutions
transparency
Open, honest communication and clear processes at every stage
integrity
Upholding the highest ethical standards in every market and transaction
global perspective
Combining international reach with deep, on-the-ground local expertise
Michail Thunert, Managing Director
With an MSc in International Management from ESADE Ramon Llull Business School and a BSc in Economics, Law, Politics, and Psychology at the University of Amsterdam, Michail combines the light-hearted pragmatism of his African roots with the structured professionalism of his German experience — a blend that brings both adaptability and precision to every real estate venture.
OUR STORY
2020
Relocated to Zanzibar, immersing himself in the island’s emerging property sector while accompanying the development of a hotel in Paje.
2025
Meet Michail in person to explore how he can support and guide you in your next real estate project.
1999-2019
Growing up in Cape Town, Michail Thunert gained an early, first-hand understanding of the local real estate market and its unique dynamics.
2024
Returned to Germany for a six-month internship with an international real estate developer, while completing an MSc thesis focused on blending advanced valuation techniques to source the best residential deals in the Rhein-Main area — resulting in a successful acquisition that met all client criteria.
2020
2023
Moved to Barcelona, building knowledge of one of Europe’s most competitive and design-driven real estate markets.
Founded Benguela Ventures as a vehicle to merge academic insight, global market experience, and practical execution. Today, the firm is advising on the leasing and sale of a property in Paje, managing a development project in Germany, and scouting investment opportunities in Cape Town for a private investor.
