*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
Arrive by helicopter to an island of unspoilt sands, swaying palms and towering dunes, hemmed by glistening waters and sandbar specks… this is a truly special destination. The mineral-rich waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago provide habitat year-round to turtles, dolphins and the rare dugong, as well as humpback whales (mid-June to mid-October) and whale sharks (December to March). Azura’s resort is super stylish and luxurious, but it’s authentic too, with a strong sense of place and culture. Benguerra is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago and is a working island – Azura shares its home with one other hotel and a friendly subsistence farming community. As part of the privately-owned Azura collection which places an emphasis on 'giving back', the resort works in partnership with the community on aspects such as sustainable fishing and building projects – like the village school. A 4x4 drive around the island to see the local houses, school and village bar is a must. For dining, the focus is on simple, fresh cuisine which lets the quality do the talking. Guests' Mozambican hosts take pride in creating innovative destination dining – think breakfasts at the water’s edge and romantic dinners on a washed-ashore dhow, surrounded by candles. The well-stocked wine cellar features a selection of the owners’ wines flown in from their reserve in the Loire Valley. Thatched villas use traditional Mozambique materials to create a chic modern design. All villas are secluded in vegetation just a few steps from the beach and each has a Mozambican butler host. Like all of Mozambique’s southern beaches, the beach is tidal, but as every villa here has its own private plunge pool you’ll be able to take a dip at any time of day. For the best views and a larger plunge pool, opt for an Infinity Beach Villa.
A one-hour adventurous speedboat journey from Maputo will transport you to this rustic boutique hideaway, nestled between dune forests, soft golden beaches and Indian Ocean waters. While Machangulo sits on the mainland, its relative inaccessibility by road from the capital (it is possible to drive here, but it’s a bumpy five-hour journey by 4x4) creates a deserted feel that’s more like that of a private island. The friendly staff members here take great pride in sharing their knowledge of the local fauna and flora. Outdoor activities offer plenty of opportunities to get up-close with wildlife including great white pelicans, flamingos and African fish eagles. Dolphins and humpback whales (June to December) can often be spotted offshore and there’s a whole underwater world to discover. Snorkelling and diving are big news here, whether it’s snorkelling in front of the lodge during neap tides, shore dives or heading out by boat to discover unexplored reefs. The thatched restaurant – the Dining Room – takes inspiration from the lodge’s setting and focuses on simple fresh seafood and local flavours. Oceanview Villas sit high in the treetops with the ultimate ocean, island and bay views, and are great for honeymooners. Each have a private deck with great views of the ocean, and walkways and wooden steps connect these rooms to the public areas and the beach.
With its wide corridors, high ceilings and opulent furnishings, the Polana Serena is old-world palatial. Conceived as an idea in 1917 and completed in 1922, it was designed by world-famous architect, Sir Herbert Baker, who also designed many of Pretoria’s most iconic buildings and the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek wine estates. Over the years it has played host to millionaires, politicians, spies and secret agents. A sensitive eight-year renovation, completed in 2010, brought this iconic building’s facilities up-to-date without compromising its historic charm. After days spent exploring the city, ease weary limbs in the sauna at the Maisha Mind Body and Spirit Spa, and indulge with a massage where therapies are hand-made using local fruits, flower oils and medicinal herbs. Or you could simply relax in the 18-metre swimming pool set in the tropical gardens. If you prefer to dine in your hotel than out in the city, the restaurants here include Delagoa for classical French cuisine fused with traditional Mozambique ingredients and the open-air Aquarius Bar for fresh sushi overlooking the ocean. Elegant rooms and suites have Indo-Portuguese influences and feature details including hand-carved furniture, plush fabrics in muted tones and overhead canopies. Choose between the traditional main building and the more contemporary Polana Mar Wing – where rooms are set into the rocks facing out over the water.
Azura Benguerra
Machangulo Beach Lodge
Polana Serena Hotel, Maputo
