Azura Benguerra
Eighteen villas on a Mozambican island shared with fishing villages and other lodges.
Benguerra is the second largest island of the Bazaruto Archipelago off Mozambique, reached by helicopter or boat from Vilanculos. The island carries fishing villages, farmland and more than one lodge, which is why this register places it in the Extended Index: the formula of one island and one resort does not hold here, and the entry says so.
Around eighteen villas make up the property, built with local labour in local materials, and it was the first eco-chic lodge in the archipelago. The Bazaruto national park protects the surrounding water, home to one of the last dugong populations in East Africa, and the lodge funds community projects in the neighbouring villages.
Built with the village, not beside it. The construction and staffing model was local from the start, and the community programme is long-running.
A national park around a lived-in island. The dugongs and the reef are protected; the island itself is a working place with residents.
Who it is not for
Azura is wrong for guests expecting an island to themselves, since villages and other lodges share Benguerra. It is wrong for travellers wanting easy logistics, given the connections through Vilanculos. And it is wrong for those seeking resort facilities at eighteen villas. And it is wrong for guests who need reliable power and connectivity throughout. Those wanting exclusive use in the region should look at Jumeirah Thanda Island.
Sources
- azura-retreats.com — around eighteen villas, Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago
- Villa count and community programme details unverified. Confirm before publication.
Booking
Private Island Resorts arranges each stay on request, quoting the rates available for the island and dates. No benefit should be assumed unless it is confirmed in writing for the individual reservation.
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