Azura Benguerra Island

Azura Benguerra Island occupies a protected beach on the second-largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve lying 14 km off the Vilanculos coast in the Mozambique Channel. The island is accessible only by a 25-minute speedboat transfer from Vilanculos or by light aircraft to the island airstrip — an arrival sequence that makes the sense of departure from the mainland immediate and complete.

Twenty villas are arranged along the beach and dune edge, each individually designed using materials sourced from the island: reclaimed driftwood, handwoven textiles, and recycled glass. Villa interiors combine open-plan living areas with shaded verandahs and private plunge pools oriented toward the Indian Ocean. The overall effect is one of considered informality — the barefoot-luxury positioning is taken literally, and guests are encouraged to follow tidal rhythms rather than hotel schedules.

The all-inclusive rate covers all meals, non-motorised water sports, and one guided activity per day. A resident chef adjusts menus daily based on the morning's catch — line fish, lobster, and shellfish in varying preparations dominate. Breakfasts are served on the beach or in the open-sided dining room, and the kitchen accommodates dietary requirements with advance notice.

A marine biologist based at the resort leads snorkelling and scuba sessions through the dugong-populated seagrass beds, coral gardens, and whale shark feeding lanes that define Bazaruto's underwater profile. The spa occupies a raised timber deck with sea views and employs locally sourced ingredients in its treatment menu. Guided kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fly-fishing are among the additional activities on offer.

Azura's conservation programme funds turtle monitoring patrols, partners with island fishing communities, and participates in the Bazaruto Archipelago dugong research network. The resort holds awards for sustainable tourism practice.