Description
Azura is Mozambique's first luxury 'eco' retreat. Built entirely by hand by the local community and operated in partnership with them, this boutique resort has just 15 villas, each with their own infinity pool and designed for both pampering and barefoot escapism.
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.
New to Azura in July 2011 is the Beach Villa, set at the far end of the beach. This villa is designed to be private and exclusive, yet has a smaller bedroom and shower room. Thus it is a great option for those who are more budget-conscious, giving the Azura experience at a reduced cost.
Guide price
£4,790
per person
£4,790 per person for 7 nights based on 2 people sharing a Luxury Beach Villa on a full board basis including international flights and transfers.
Accommodation
Nestled amidst indigenous gardens, each of the villas is just footsteps from the beach, yet designed with seclusion in mind. Accommodation comprises 1 beach villa, 3 luxury beach villas, 11 infinity beach villas, 1 Villa Amizade with 2 bedrooms, suitable for families and 1 Presidential Villa with 2 en-suite rooms and a smaller third bedroom. All offer seclusion and are attended by a personal host who caters to guests every need.
Childcare
Although there are no specific child care facilities children are welcome at Azura. Food and meal times can easily be tailored to suit younger guests and babysitting is available on request.
Facilities
Guest can snack on fresh sushi in the Star Bar on the beach or learn more about the surrounding environment with the resident Marine Biologist or Community Guide. The 'Trading Store' sells gorgeous designer clothing handcrafted artefacts and jewellery. If needed there is a TV and internet discreetly tucked away in the library.
Activities
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.
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.
Services
Each room has a dedicated Mozambican host who will take care of every need, serving meals and arranging activities and excursions . They are part of Azura’s commitment to the community and upliftment of the country’s people. Many of them have very little in the way of formal education, but they have a genuine warmth and friendliness, and delight in looking after the guests.
When to travel
The Bazaruto Archipelago is best from Apr to Oct. Heavy rain in Jan and Feb.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Benguerra Island, Mozambique
Azura is located on Benguerra Island within the Bazaruto Marine National Park. Benguerra Island lies 14km north east of Vilanculos, the nearest town and site of the international airport.
How to get there
8.5 hour international flight, 2hr international flight, Azura operates a state of the art 6 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. Transfer time is 15 minutes by minibus to the port, then 25-45 minutes by boat depending on sea conditions.
