AZURA BENGUERRA – BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO

Azura Benguerra occupies a secluded stretch of beach on Benguerra Island, the second largest island in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago. Built by hand with the support of the local community, the lodge combines contemporary comfort with a relaxed island atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for travellers wishing to unwind after a safari or those looking for a stand-alone Indian Ocean escape.

Surrounded by white sand beaches, turquoise seas and protected coral reefs, the island is one of the finest marine destinations in southern Africa. The waters support an abundance of tropical fish, turtles, dolphins and, seasonally, migrating humpback whales. The archipelago is also one of the last remaining refuges of the rare dugong, making it an important conservation area.

Traditional dhow sailing, world-class diving and snorkelling, island exploration and encounters with the local community allow guests to experience the character of Benguerra Island as well as its natural beauty.

Service is friendly and personal throughout, while the emphasis remains on enjoying the island at an unhurried pace. Whether relaxing beside your private pool, dining beneath the stars or setting out to explore the surrounding reefs and sandbanks, Azura Benguerra provides a memorable conclusion to an African safari.

LOCATION

Azura Benguerra is situated on Benguerra Island within the protected Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park, approximately 14 kilometres offshore from Vilanculos on Mozambique’s mainland. Guests normally arrive via Vilanculos International Airport before transferring by helicopter, enjoying spectacular aerial views of the islands, coral reefs and sandbanks during the short flight to the lodge.

The Bazaruto Archipelago enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year and is ideally placed to complement a safari in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe or Zambia. Its clear waters and diverse marine life make it one of the Indian Ocean’s premier beach destinations.

LODGE

Azura Benguerra was the first eco-boutique retreat to be developed on Benguerra Island and was constructed in partnership with the local community. Natural materials, local craftsmanship and traditional design have been combined with contemporary comforts to create an elegant but informal retreat that sits comfortably within its island setting.

Accommodation consists of a selection of beach villas, infinity beach villas, luxury beach villas, a royal beach villa and the exclusive Villa Amizade. Each enjoys direct beach access together with generous indoor and outdoor living space, private plunge pools, shaded decks and attentive but discreet host service. Interiors are light and spacious, using timber, natural stone and handcrafted furnishings inspired by Mozambican traditions.

The main lodge overlooks the beach and provides a welcoming place to gather for meals or simply enjoy uninterrupted views across the Indian Ocean. Fresh seafood features prominently on the menus, complemented by locally sourced produce and an extensive wine selection. Private dining experiences, beach dinners and relaxed lunches beside the ocean all contribute to the easy-going atmosphere that defines a stay at Azura Benguerra.

Every aspect of the lodge encourages guests to enjoy the pace of island life, whether reading beneath a palm tree, watching traditional dhows sail past, or returning from a morning exploring the reefs to spend a quiet afternoon beside a private pool.

ACTIVITIES

Snorkelling and Diving – The clear waters surrounding Benguerra Island are home to colourful coral reefs, reef fish, turtles and a wide variety of marine life. Guided snorkelling trips and scuba diving excursions cater for both experienced divers and those wishing to discover the underwater world for the first time.

Dhow Cruises – Traditional wooden dhows remain an important part of life throughout the archipelago. Sunset cruises provide a relaxed way to appreciate the coastline while watching local fishermen return home at the end of the day.

Island Drives – Guided island excursions explore freshwater lakes, towering sand dunes and local villages, providing an opportunity to understand both the natural environment and the community that calls Benguerra home.

Fishing – The waters around the Bazaruto Archipelago are renowned for game fishing, with opportunities for both deep-sea fishing and catch-and-release fly fishing depending on the season.

Horse Riding – Experienced guides lead rides along deserted beaches, through island tracks and, where conditions allow, into the shallow waters along the shoreline.

Spa – The African Spa offers a range of treatments designed to complement the relaxed pace of island life.

Marine Wildlife – Boat trips frequently encounter dolphins, turtles and seasonal humpback whales, while the protected waters of the archipelago also provide one of the last remaining habitats for the endangered dugong.

GIVING BACK

Azura Retreats was established with a strong commitment to supporting the communities of Benguerra Island. Through the Azura Rainbow Fund, the lodge contributes to education, healthcare, environmental conservation and community development projects. Guests have the opportunity to learn more about these initiatives during their stay and see how tourism is helping to protect both the island’s people and its unique natural environment.

AZURA BENGUERRA IS OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND
THE LODGE WELCOMES FAMILIES. CHILD POLICIES VARY BETWEEN VILLA TYPES AND SEASONS. PLEASE ASK US FOR THE LATEST DETAILS WHEN PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAY.