Azura Benguerra is a one-of-a-kind property. Located on Benguerra Island, this is Mozambique's first 'eco' retreat. Built entirely by hand by the local community and operated in partnership with them, this boutique resort has just 17 luxurious villas, each with their own infinity pool and designed for both pampering and barefoot escapism. Two of these accommodate families or couples travelling together, offering the ultimate retreat.
Each villa has a Mozambican butler-host who will take care of every whim and desire, ensuring you have a romantic and memorable stay. From arranging breakfast at the water's edge to serving you a cocktail at sunset, they truly care about making you feel at home here.
Many of the activities on offer are focused around the sea and reefs of Benguerra Island. Guests can snorkel, dive or fish the waters which are abundant with marine life. There are many magnificent reefs which provide a home to the turtles that nest on the island's outer shores. Watch the sunset whilst sailing on a traditional dhow, or cruise to deserted beaches to look for pansy shells. Gaze at the dolphins, who are regular visitors to the beach, or track down humpback whales on their migration past the island’s shores (seasonal). On land, towering sand dunes give way to indigenous bush abundant with local flora and fauna, an interesting variety of birdlife, as well as the odd crocodile or two at the lakes. The island’s local people make for fascinating cultural encounters, and the starry night sky is quite magnificent to behold.
Guests tend to gather each evening in the funky Star Bar before the evening meal is served either in the open-fronted dining room or on the beach. Dining is very much part of your experience here, making the most of the freshest ingredients, accompanied by a superb selection of wine.
Activitties
Many of the activities are focused around the ocean. Guests can snorkel or dive with the PADI 5 Star dive centre with Scuba-pro equipment offering a full range of instructional courses (Padi MSDT Instructor) or there is saltwater fly fishing or big game fishing. Sail on Azura's traditional dhow to look for pansy shells or enjoy a beach picnic on a deserted sandbank.Gaze at the dolphins, who are regular visitors to the beach, or track down humpback whales on their migration past the lodge (seasonal).
There are land based activities too. Take a tour of the island, and experience the local culture or climb the dunes, some of which are scattered with the remnants of ancient Arab pottery. Visit the island’s lakes and spot a crocodile or two. Discover the local fauna and flora. Take a long walk and be met with a picnic. Or join one of the star gazing events and lie back and listen to the ancient African stories that chart the cosmos.
When to Travel
The Bazaruto Archipelago is warm and sunny year round with temperatures averaging 25° C in the winter months (May – August) and over 30° C in the summer months (December - March). Rain is possible from November to March, usually in short bursts. The sea temperature varies with the seasons and currents, and ranges between 22° C and 32° C.
How to get there
It is an 8-hour 30-minute international flight, 2-hour international flight, Azura operates a state of the art 4 seater Eurocopter helicopter for the transfers from Vilanculos to Benguerra Island. The flying time is approx 10 minutes, and will connect with arriving/departing flights. Alternatively guests can transfer by road and speedboat if flying is undesirable. Transfer time is 15 minutes by minibus to the port, then 25-45 minutes by boat depending on sea conditions.
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