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A DREAM DESTINATION IN A PROTECTED ARCHIPELAGO
A DREAM DESTINATION IN A PROTECTED ARCHIPELAGO
THE JEWELS OF THE CROWN...
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a string of five islands, located between 10 and 25 km in front of Vilanculos : Bazaruto Island, with the breathtaking view from the sand dunes ; Benguerra’s bush and its brightening and pearly sand tongue ; Magaruque Island and its wonderful rocky walls ; Santa Carolina and Bangué Islands, the two smaller islands.
Because of their extraordinary beauty, they have been named “the jewels of the crown”.
These islands have been made out of sand put down by the Limpopo river, hundreds of thousand years ago. The pressures from the tectonic forces, during millenniums, have diverted the mouth of the river which is, actually, some hundreds of kilometers south. Ten thousand years ago, these islands were linked to the continent, which explains that we can still find today a specific fauna and flora.
Since 1971, these paradisiacal islands are under the protection of a national park. Their very rich ecosystem provides a shelter for a great number of species like the fishing eagle, the pink flamingo, snakes and amphibians, Nile crocodiles, turtles. As there is no predators, 2 antelope species are leaving on the islands : the bushbuck and the red duiker.
ACTIVITIES
ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE ARCHIPELAGO
AZURA LODGE (BENGUERRA ISLAND)
Azura is the country’s first luxury 'eco' boutique retreat. Built entirely by hand by the local community and operated in partnership with them, it has just 14 villas, each with their own infinity pool, creating comforts you would expect from a luxury boutique resort and blending modern chic with all that is traditional in Mozambique.
Each is just footsteps from the beach and nestled amidst indigenous gardens. Lounge around on plump cushions on your daybed, or tan in private and cool off in your sparkling plunge pool. Dine on your deck, or sip champagne in your beachside Sala as the sun goes down. Lie in your bath and gaze at the view, or shower beneath the stars. Do whatever you want to do.
You’ll have a dedicated Mozambican host to look after you during your stay. They are part of Azura’s commitment to the community and upliftment of the country’s people.
Azura has 11 Infinity Beach Villas and 3 Luxury Beach Villas. Each has the following facilities : beachfront location and views, air-conditioning and fans, oversize mosquito net, minibar, sundeck, Mozambican host service.
Azura’s spa is located right on the beach. Their signature treatments are based on local ingredients and traditions.
RESTAURANT
Dinner is eaten on the beach by candlelight beneath the stars whenever they can. There’s a choice of main course, with the emphasis on local seafood. Fresh sushi when the fishermen have been lucky in their catch. Variety of special dining options too, including secluded beach picnics or romantic candle lit private beach dinners at your villa
ACTIVITIES
Many of our activities are focused around the sea and reefs of Benguerra Island. You can snorkel, dive or fish the waters which are abundant with marine life. Watch the sunset as you sail on our dhow, or cruise to deserted beaches to look for pansy shells. Gaze at the dolphins, who are regular visitors to our beach, or track down humpback whales on their migration past the island’s shores (seasonal). There are land based activities too or join one of our star gazing events and lie back and listen to the ancient African stories that chart the cosmos.
SCUBA DIVING
- Padi 5 Star dive centre with all new Scubapro equipment
- Full range of instructional courses from discover scuba upwards (Padi MSDT Instructor)
- Dedicated watersports centre with dive training pool
- DAN equipped 8m diving rib
- Varied and interesting reefs with several species of turtle, dolphins, shark, pelagics, moray eels, eagle rays and a wonderful array of reef fish and corals
PESTANA BAZARUTO LODGE
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge is on the largest island of the Bazaruto Archipelago.The island - carefully protected as a Nature Reserve Park - is a beautiful and unspoilt destination, characterized by its wild sea and idyllic beaches. The lodge offers a unique combination of beauty, comfort and relaxation that makes it the perfect spot for nature lovers, divers, fisherman and water sport enthusiasts.
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge offers 40 "A-frame" thatched bungalows comprising: 13 standard rooms, 23 superior rooms plus 4 suites, set amongst tropical gardens with magnificent views. Every bungalow is equipped with air conditioning, ceiling fan and private bathroom with enclosed outdoor shower.
RESTAURANT
The Lodge has one main restaurant, and every evening African drums announce dinner. For lunch, a light meal can be served at the pool, or a picnic prepared for the beach. The restaurant offers an exotic buffet or à la carté menu. Bar next to the swimming pool. Facilities : swimming pool, games room/TV lounge, local crafts shop, internet facilities at the main Lodge, restaurant, pool bar and laundry service.
ACTIVITIES
Diving & resort course, short, medium & long distance diving, snorkeling, rock, surf & game fishing, sailing trips, wake-snake, water-skiing, Land Rover/boat excursions.