Benguerra is a unique, African island paradise-washed by the turquoise waters of the warm Mozambique Channel.  This is barefoot luxury at its very best. Benguerra Island was originally named “Santa Antonio” by Portuguese explorers and was later named Benguerra after a local Tribal chief. The Island is the second biggest island in the chain and is approximately 11km in length and 5,5km wide.

The island sustains a varied array of fauna and flora including natural forest, savannah, dunes and wetland eco-systems. The unique freshwater lakes on the island are indeed a reminder of ancient times when the island was part of the mainland and still hosts a population of freshwater crocodiles.

Cashew nut trees are indigenous and grow on the seaward side of the island. Sisal plants are plentiful and are used in a manufactured form by the locals to repair their fishing nets. Mlala palms are in abundance and the leaves are used for the weaving of mats, baskets and hats, which are then sold. On the southern point of the island you will find Casuarina trees planted by convicts from Penal colonies in the area during Portuguese rule. The trees are not indigenous and were planted to prevent erosion on the island.

Following the assessment of the widespread damage caused by Cyclone Favio Benguerra Lodge will reopening
1 December 2007, weather permitting and provided the restoration goes according to plan.

The luxury thatched Benguerra Lodge offers exclusivity in a tranquil and remote setting. Merged into a natural milkwood forest bordering Benguerra Bay and encircled by silver beaches, coral reefs and turquoise seas.

Inspired by the island's natural beauty the Lodge roof are made of thatch and reeds whilst palm fronds were used for the walls. The 11 chalets, all built on stilts, are rustic and charming. Local screen-printed fabrics, faux bamboo furniture, seashells and indigenous basketware blend together in a colourful interior. Each chalet features an ensuite bathroom and a balcony overlooking the sea.

The exclusive, private Villa is ideal for honeymoon couples and family special occasions. Set away from the rest of the complex, guests enjoy total privacy. A personal chef is available to prepare all meals. The Villa consists of two double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, intimate lounge and dining area with hand carved mahogany table. Outside on the wooden deck is a Jacuzzi/plunge pool for relaxation.

Meals are fresh from the sea, with delicacies such as crayfish, crab and calamari tantalisingly prepared or exotic Portuguese dishes. Lunches are relaxed affairs served in different settings and always with unsurpassed personal attention.

There is also a swimming pool for those wanting a less salty swim.

OPENING OCTOBER 2007

Imagine an resort situated on a unspoilt island with deserted beaches of pure white sand, sparkling turquoise seas, swaying palms, sunny days and star studded nights…and you have Azura Mozambique. Azura is the country’s first luxury eco-boutique retreat. It has just 15 villas, each with their own infinity pool and designed for the ultimate in pampering and privacy.

The villas blend modern chic with all that is traditional in Mozambique. The creature comforts you would expect from a luxury boutique resort are there, set off by beautifully carved beams and traditional artwork beneath a local thatched jekka roof. Each is just footsteps from the beach, yet designed with seclusion in mind. Nestled amidst the indigenous trees and bush. Tan in private beneath the swaying palms of your villa or cool off in your plunge pool. Dine on your deck, or sip a cocktail in your beachside Sala as the sun goes down. Lie in your bath and gaze at the view, or shower beneath the stars. All this from your private villa!!!

The public areas are open to the beach and sea with amazing vistas across calm blue waters to the Indian Ocean beyond. Furnished with cool contemporary cottons and the textures of Africa, they are open to the breezes, in harmony with nature. Sip a cocktail at the beach bar with your feet in the sand, or snack on fresh sushi in the Star Bar. The mod cons are there too if you need them, with TV and Internet discreetly tucked away in the library.
 
The chef’s dishes will not disappoint, and nor will the extensive wine cellar, which includes fine wines from France. The main restaurant has magnificent uninterrupted views. The Gecko Deck offers informal dining with your feet in the sand. Or picnic at a secluded spot on your own. And nothing beats dining by candlelight on the beach beneath the stars.

Activities include snorkel or dive; fly fish or big game fish. Go out with the Dugong protection team and search for the shy endangered mammal. Or you can help protect and release the turtles from their nests on the shores. Sail on a dhow, or cruise to deserted beaches to look for pansy shells. Swim with the dolphins, or track down humpback whales on their migration past the shores. 

Following the assessment of the widespread damage caused by Cyclone Favio Marlin Beach Lodge will reopening only in 2008.

Marlin's 19 exquisite sea-facing chalets of wood, reed and thatch stretch along the mesmerising Flamingo Bay beach - each with its own private patio and pathway leading to the beach. Decorated in subtle tones of cream, brown and blue, the recently renovated luxury chalets are a unique blend of romance and essential comforts. All the luxury chalets are west facing, boasting spectacular sunset views, whilst four poster beds and canvas-clad ceilings echo Marlin's understated island elegance.

There are four categories of chalets to choose from, the eleven Classic chalets, six Luxury chalets, one Luxury Suite, and three Executive Suites. 

When searching for the perfect
In the living and dining area, one can retreat from the African sun, sip on a tropical drink, or lazily catch up on some reading. Guests are treated to the finest cuisine and warmest hospitality in a tranquil and friendly atmosphere. Imagine a private, sit-down dinner for two on your patio, watching the silver moon rising over a peaceful sea.  

The freshwater pool is set in a glade of Coconut and Ilala palms.