Welcome to Azura Benguerra Island
Azura Benguerra Island is an eco-friendly award winning boutique hotel in the uniquely beautiful country of Mozambique.
Mozambique is still rather undiscovered and renowned for its relaxed, tropical atmosphere and exceptionally friendly people. Its biggest draw cards are without a doubt, its expansive beaches, secluded islands and spectacular marine life. The setting for this experience is hard to beat.
With just 20 luxury beachfront villas hand-built by the local community and no shops on the island, a stay at Azura Benguerra Island allows you to truly escape. Each villa offers all the creature comforts you could wish for: private pools, Mozambican butler-hosts to look after your every need, fresh seafood straight from the ocean and a relaxing African spa. Azura Retreats’ vision was to provide the ultimate in private luxury hideaways, in stunning undiscovered destinations, which they have achieved with Azura Benguerra Island.
Azura Retreats is the product of a love affair with the country of Mozambique and its people, combined with the desire to create a destination that would appeal to honeymooners and families alike. Azura Benguerra Island was born out of the island’s authentic natural beauty, and the connection to the local people and cultures.
Info
Azura Retreats is located on Benguerra Island within the Bazaruto Marine National Park. Benguerra is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, which is made up of five islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Banque, and Santa Carolina (or Paradise Island).
Benguerra Island is approximately 9 kilometres x 5 kilometres and has about 2000 inhabitants. It lies some 14 kilometres north east of Vilanculos, the nearest town and site of the international airport. Benguerra is famous for its unspoiled white beaches, remarkable dive sites and excellent fishing.
The nearest airport is Vilanculos International Airport (VNX) on the Mozambique mainland.
There are daily flights from Johannesburg International airport (OR Tambo) with Airlink, at approximately 80 minutes flight time.
Flights are also available from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (MQP), allowing for an excellent ‘bush and beach’ combination. From July to January, these flights are direct and during the rest of the year, the flights will route via Johannesburg.
Once you arrive in Vilanculos, it is a 8-minute scenic helicopter transfer to Benguerra Island.
Choose from an array of different air-conditioned villas, all carefully positioned and designed to optimise turquoise views, beachfront access and a sense of seclusion. Modern amenities and carefully considered luxuries are offset by beach-chic, Mozambican flair. Every Villa has a private pool, Beach Sala, sunbathing deck, comfortable outdoor sofa and dining table all with free-flowing indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as a private butler-host.
Beach Villas
Welcome to your light and airy tropical haven that opens onto exquisite beach views.
This compact villa offers the perfect balance of stylish comfort and elegant simplicity. Comfortable indoor lounge and living spaces flow into an outdoor seating and dining area with secluded beachside frontage.
Submerge into your private plunge pool that mirrors the colours of the ocean, or enjoy some R&R on the large, undercover deck with a daybed. All Beach Villas have a separate sundeck, as well as a private beach sala for seaside relaxation.
Luxury Beach Villas
In our signature beach-centric style, the Luxury Beach Villas offer laid-back relaxation and quintessential indoor-outdoor living.
Spaces are designed to be larger and allow ease of movement as you spend your time between the indoor areas and the beauty of your beachside outdoor seating and dining areas. The upsized bedroom suite opens onto a shower area with frosted glass that adds a wonderful light and breezy feel .
The large, private plunge pool overlooks the sundeck, beach sala and white sands beyond, and the views across the ocean are stunning. Two of the Luxury Beach Villas are set closer to the main resort for ease of access.
Infinity Beach Villas
High-end aesthetic interiors perfectly compliment the beauty of the natural surrounds.
Just a few footsteps from the beach, our most popular villa category offers a spacious outdoor deck with dining and seating area overlooking a beautiful private infinity pool . A few steps away is your private beach sala and sundeck, the perfect spot for some rejuvenation as the waves lap gently against the shore.
Configured for versatility, several of the Infinity Beach Villas can be interleading or set up as twins or doubles. Spaces are generous with beautiful bathrooms including a vanity area and bathtub as well as indoor and outdoor showers. There are several seating areas outdoors, perfect for spending time relaxing around the pool, or working out in paradise with our “gym in a bag” option.
Royal Beach Villas
Let your eyes be drawn to the exquisite vistas and lavish, luxurious spaces that unfold around you.
The Royal Beach Villas offer the next level of comfort with plenty of space to spread out and unwind. An additional lounge and second bathroom with an outside shower makes this Villa suitable for families but also for couples who value extra space and luxury. The main bathroom’s indoor shower features unique mosaic detail as well as a frosted glass window with sitting area making it bright and airy. A sense of the natural beauty is carried through in the décor.
Villa Amizade
Make yourself at home in a paradisiacal setting offering a variety of spaces to enjoy with loved ones.
Meaning “friendship” in our native Portuguese, this beautiful two-bedroomed Villa is ideal for families or a couple looking for more space and facilities. The beautiful 10-metre, fully-tiled pool is surrounded by azure ocean views, and the indoor and outdoor spaces offer all the superlative Azura design touches and finishes.
The lounge area comes complete with a flat screen TV, a selection of films and games, and a contemporary sound system. It opens onto extensive decking, dining and relaxation areas, including a ‘wine bar’ and kitchen perfect, for small celebrations or family gatherings. You can opt for a private chef service, available at a supplement. The maximum occupancy is five people including children.
Presidential Villa
Feel the world drift away as you discover one of the best private villas anywhere in the Indian Ocean.
Set aside from the rest of the retreat and opening onto an unspoilt wilderness, the Presidential Villa, with its own entrance and helipad, is designed to give the ultimate feeling of privacy, luxury, style and comfort.
The villa boasts a range of open plan relaxation spaces, ranging from multiple lounging and dining areas, private bar lounge, secluded roof terrace with a spa hot tub and spacious entertaining areas with a sound system. This beach house of your dreams has three individual bedroom suites each with an individual unique style, as well as their own indoor-outdoor bathrooms of various sizes and offerings.
Outside spaces include sundecks dotted with sun-loungers, two beachfront salas, an oversized infinity pool, and an exclusive-use shady treehouse that captures the best of the afternoon views and spectacular sunsets. All have panoramic views of the Bazaruto Archipelago and Indian Ocean. The Presidential Villa is ideal for multi-generational families and couples travelling together and the maximum occupancy is ten people, including children.
Added extras include a private chef, premium spirits, cocktails and our signature Island Hop experience.
Hotel Amenities
Our communal areas offer a variety of spots to enjoy your surroundings and relax: unwind in the comfortable lounge area, sip on your favourite cocktail in the vibey Star Bar, and be sure to visit the wine cellar offering a selection of wines flown in from the owner’s Chateau in France. The Jellyfish Restaurant is an idyllic setting for breakfast, lunch and formal dining, a spacious library with TV access, and a stylish boutique at reception with local wares. Otherwise, enjoy some “me time” at the rejuvenating spa or test your skills at the Padi 5-Star dive centre.
Hosting you
Your hospitality team are Mozambican locals who are deeply passionate about sharing their beautiful island with you. Every one of them is knowledgeable and able to assist with whatever you need, always with a warm smile. As you arrive, you will meet your dedicated butler-host who will be on hand to care for you throughout your stay.
Go on, spice things up!
If you’re looking for a vibe, you’ve found it. Peri Peri is Mozambique’s hottest Beach Club, inspired by the most famous beach scenes around the world.
Add some zest to your Benguerra experience as you lounge poolside, in a raised Beach Treehouse Deck or at the beach bar; enjoying Mozambican cuisine with world-acclaimed wines or our specially-inspired cocktails with a Peri Peri twist.
Sizzling sociability
Overlooking a pool with breath-taking views over the Indian Ocean, the signature décor and cuisine of Peri Peri celebrates Mozambique’s rich Portuguese history. Colourful tiles offset natural furnishings, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet sociable. Spend the day enjoying the beachfront location, snacking on Peri Peri Prawns, espetadas and gourmet pizzas fresh from our wood-fired pizza oven, or indulge in your own private “Sizzle Table” and choose a selection of seafood and meat to be grilled right in front of you.
Come on over
Peri-Peri Beach Club is located around a kilometre along the beach from Azura Benguerra Island and open to both resident guests and day visitors. In-house guests take first preference, but packages are available for visitors inclusive of bar and pool access, meals and beverages. Helicopter packages cater for fly-in guests. The venue can be exclusively booked out for parties and celebrations, on request.
Azura offers dining with a difference, pairing light, fresh and flavourful Mozambican cuisine with a variety of beautiful settings prepared specially for you. Carefully considered details and thoughtful touches make every meal a unique, sensory extravaganza.
SERVED FRESH & FLAVOURFUL
Seasonal and sustainably-sourced, our signature seafood – lobster, prawns, calamari, crab and a variety of fish – is supplied by local fishermen. Guest favourites include our delicious Mozambican prawns, Peri Peri Chicken and Mozambican fish curries, all offered with a choice of delectable wines.
EACH MEAL IS A UNIQUE MEMORY
Your dedicated Butler Host takes great pride in getting to know your preferences and providing a different set-up for every meal, while our kitchen prepares dishes based on what is seasonal and freshly available. We welcome you to chat to our chefs about any adaptions you may like.
Every meal is served in a different location, from our exquisite beach, the Jelly Fish Restaurant and Peri Peri Beach Club, to romantic private dinners on your deck or in the wine cellar. During the day, we can also organise exquisite private picnics on Paradise Island, North Point and Wildside.
Unforgettable experiences found only here
Our unique collection of activities can be tailored to be as relaxed or adventurous as you choose. You will be hosted by experienced local guides who love sharing their knowledge and passion for the pristine environments that form part of the protected Marine Reserve around Benguerra. We have curated an array of fun and memorable excursions into the fauna, flora, habitats and vibrant culture for you to experience during your stay… enjoy!
Island hop
Enjoy a combination of some of the best activities we have to offer. Travelling by boat, you will stop off at several breathtaking island highlights, including infinite views from the top of Bazaruto Dune; tidal Pansy Island with shells dotted along the white sandy strip; snorkelling off 2-Mile reef in warm waters teeming with fish, turtles and rays; finally rounding off a perfect day at North Point for a scenic set-up picnic lunch. This is Island life at its most memorable, hemmed by the stunning azure waters and panoramic views of the archipelago.
Paradise Island
Visit the smallest island in the archipelago and travel back in time as you explore the evocative ruins of the once magnificent 1950s iconic destination, Hotel Santa Carolina. The island offers opportunities for walking, swimming and snorkelling, as well as some of our best turtle sightings. Mysterious and magical.
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Set sail for a private sunset extravaganza on a traditional East African sail boat. Let down your hair and leave behind your shoes, as you step onto the wooden deck to see the islands from a different perspective. Sip on a delicious cocktail as the wind catches the sails, the ocean laps against the bow, the skies are painted in warm tones and the sun sinks into the sea.
Snorkelling
Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders of 2-Mile Reef. This world-acclaimed site is set in a protected Marine Reserve making it a paradise for throngs of sealife. The sunlit, warm waters ensure you have excellent visibility and exquisite sightings of bright fish, turtles and smaller rays. Suitable for all levels of experience and fun for groups of all ages. Be transported by a reef ecosystem where no two days are alike.
Scuba Diving
The various sites within the Bazaruto Archipelago offer some of the most sublime diving in Mozambique. Colourful corals host a diversity of marine life including turtles, moray eels, several species of rays and rich variety of fish. We offer the use of world-class equipment (Qualified Dive Certificate is required or PADI diving courses can be done at the resort). Your underwater paradise awaits.
Fishing
Some of the best big game, reef and bill fishing in the Indian Ocean, including a variety of species and some big scale-tippers. Open to all levels of experience. You can look forward to hooking various sought-after species including Black Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Bonito, King/Queen Mackeral, Prodigal Son, Wahoo, Dorado, Barracuda and Giant Trevally (often up to 25kgs). Trawling with our local guides gives you a great day out on the water.
Beach Picnics
Endless white sands and azure views set the scene for your beautiful picnics with private set-ups at a range of locations: North Point, Wild Side of Benguerra Island and Paradise Island. North Point is the most romantic picnic spot to spend quality time with loved ones, surrounded by a pure white sand bank and calm ocean views into the beyond. Tucked amongst the sculptural driftwood on Wild Side, your table and chairs are shaded by an umbrella as you enjoy a sumptuous meal looking out over the ocean. Take a stroll along the shore, or hike up the Red Dune for magnificent sightings of Benguerra Island from the highest point on the island. Search for crocodiles in the freshwater inland lakes and cool off with a dip in the Indian Ocean. Alternatively, enjoy leisure time swimming in crystal clear warm waters with turtles, walking through the ruins that once was Hotel Santa Carolina at Paradise Island.
Peri Peri Beach Club
Mozambique’s hottest Beach Club offers a sociable and relaxed atmosphere with a range of memorable ways to experience the local flair at a stunning beachfront location. Overlooking an alluring swimming pool with breath-taking views over the Indian Ocean, you can while away an afternoon enjoying the beachfront location, snacking on delectable dishes, and sipping on ice-cold cocktails and an array of refreshments. Options include personal grills where you can sizzle your own seafood and meats, raised private Beach Salas, and Spa Pavilion offering African-themed massages. Add some vibe to your stay.
Beach Dinner
Savour a private dinner beautifully arranged in front of your villa alongside the ocean and under the twinkling African night sky. Our chef prepares deliciously fresh meals to order, served by your Butler Host and complimented by a selection of wines from our cellar. Candlelight and balmy ocean views set the scene for one of Azura’s signature memory-making experiences.
Sunset Cocktails
Spectacular sunsets are the ideal way to end the day. Enjoy the ‘Sunset Cocktail’ of the day, served at your private villa and accompanied by snacks as you ease back on reclining cushions surrounded by Mozambiquan ilala palm décor. Azura faces West and daily radiant sunsets are one of the picturesque experiences that makes our location so unique.
Beach
Beach time is an essential part of island getaways and can be experienced in a variety of ways. Accessible any time of day from all areas of the resort. Step out onto the white sands right in front of your villa and allow your Butler Host to provide a range comforts to enhance your experience. Swim in the turquoise warm waters, recline on the sand, soak up the sun and let the changing tides of the island reset your inner clock.
Stargazing
Take in the splendour of the unspoilt night sky from a comfy beanbag, informed by a local expert. With so little ambient light, the stars shine luminous and it is possible to see planets like Jupiter and Venus through our telescope. Discover prominent constellations accompanied by an interesting and informative talk, and topped off with snacks and drinks. Spot shooting stars believed to be a sign of good fortune and prosperity for all.
Horse riding
Ride along the beautiful shoreline, traverse the island, or experience ocean swimming on horseback. Our guides and well-trained horses will delight in taking you on sight-seeing outrides and you will explore a variety of locations at a peaceful pace. Open to any level of experience, horse riding on Benguerra Island is a unique adventure.
Whale watching
Experience the rare privilege of observing these majestic giants going about their natural behaviour. Every year, Humpback Whales make a long and arduous annual migration from the cold waters of the Antarctic to the warm waters of the Equator to give birth. Passing through our channels between July and October, and providing incredible sightings as they frolic in the warm waters around the island.
Island drive
Delve into life on Benguerra Island as you visit local communities and explore the wild side. The drive takes you through beautiful island landscapes to the happy homes of local islanders. Visit the school built by Azura’s Rainbow Fund in 2008, where 490 children now have the opportunity of primary education and 34 children on the mainland attend High School. Then, take a turn past the first-ever clinic on the island, offering health screening and medications previously unavailable, also built by our Rainbow Fund. Learn about indigenous fauna and flora as you take in the breath-taking panoramic views of Benguerra Island.
Dugong spotting
Visit the last remaining population of these majestic marine mammals in the West Indian Ocean, where they frolic year-round in the aquamarine waters. Called the “mermaids of the sea” Dugongs gather on the reefs where they gently graze on sea grass, making it possible for you drift close and marvel at these peaceful and awe-inspiring creatures.
You can expect amazing warm and sunny weather year-round as Benguerra Island is one of 10 countries aligned along the Tropic of Capricorn.
November to March are very hot summer months with temperatures easily reaching the mid to high 30s during the day – 35°C/95°F. The evening temperatures usually drop by around 8 to 10oC to 26°C/79°F.
April to May, as well as September and October, are some of our most popular months for those who like warm weather, with temperatures reaching daily highs of around 27oC/81oF. In the evening, temperatures drop by around 7 to 8°C to 18°C/66°F.
June to August can hardly be called winter however, as daily temperatures range around the higher 20s during the day – 26°C/79°F and between 8-10°C cooler in the evenings so are around 17°C/63°F.
Rainfall is generally restricted to the mainland with the islands receiving very little rainfall, although some showers can occur between November and February. These are usually short, sharp bursts, often at night, helping to cool the very hot temperatures of the summer months.
Ocean temperatures are comfortably warm in the summer months and can reach 28/29°C (84°F). In winter, it still remains warm enough for swimming (24/25°C or 77°F).
It is therefore clear why the Bazaruto Archipelago is a such a serious contender as a year-round popular holiday destination!
Our retreat moves to the natural rhythms of the seasons and tides, and we are deeply passionate about preserving and protecting this very special place and community. Azura is run as a genuinely ethically- and ecologically-minded team. Just by being here, you support the community, conservation and are really making a difference!
Supporting The Rainbow Fund
The Azura Rainbow Fund is the first registered charity of its kind in Mozambique. It supports a variety of social and environmental projects large and small, from building schools to environmental protection initiatives. We are part of a Protected Marine Reserve and have a dedicated environmentalist and community officer at Azura to maximise our efforts to look after the indigenous species and migrating sea-life.
Giving back to Mozambique
By simply staying at Azura Benguerra Island, you are giving back to the people and country of Mozambique.
- Paying US$ 20 per villa per stay (optional) contribution to The Rainbow Fund to support: Local and environmental projects; the island clinic and school; 20 scholarships for island children to have further education on the mainland.
- Supporting Azura’s carbon-neutral pledge and tree-planting offsetting initiative in which a tree is planted for every guest that visits the island.
- Enjoying the fresh produce which is purchased from local fisherman who sustainably harvest fish, lobster and crab.
- Paying the mandatory US$ 15 per person per stay Bazaruto National Park fee, a marine reserve managed by African Parks.
Sustainability and indigenous materials make for elegant living
As you look around your villa, everything that meets your gaze was carefully considered and designed in harmony with nature. Window frames and doors are made by Mozambiquan carpenters and the massive supporting beams are the second-life of storm-felled trees. Where possible, furnishings and materials are handmade by disadvantaged communities across Southern Africa.
Our packing tips
- Beach essentials: Bathing suits, sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen, kikois or wraps and flip flops or sandals (that can get wet)
- Trainers/sneakers for some activities.
- Batteries or chargers for cameras, phones etc. We provide electrical convertors.
- Light, cool and informal clothing is worn during the day but in the evenings something smart casual or beach chic is appropriate. We usually serve dinner on the beach, so very high heels are not appropriate.
- Diving certification cards. It is now possible to undertake the theory part of a PADI qualification on-line with the practical dives completed on site.
“They absolutely loved it!! Couldn’t fault it at all… Thanks for the smooth booking procedure!
Many thanks and kind regards,
Justine (Agent who booked clients)
“We had a WONDERFUL time at Azura…thank you!!!!!!”
Husein
“Hi there, they absolute loved it!!! He phoned me from there to tell me it was just what they needed and that they think it was almost better than W Retreat and Spa where they went for 10 days last year in the Maldives and paid an arm and a leg for a watervilla. So just shows you!!
Thanks again for all the help and assistance we always get from you ladies.
Regards
Magda (Agent who booked clients)
Was all great. We had a fantastic time all round. Thanks for the help with the bookings and chat soon.”
Sally (agent who booked Honeymooners)
“They loved Azura and really enjoyed themselves.
Tx – I am sure I will be in touch next year to book again!”
Nicola (agent who booked clients)