Azura Quilalea
Quilalea Private Island, Mozambique
Meet Matt
My rating
Indulgent
Price guide
£££££
$$$$$
Why we love it
Set in the waters of the Quirimbas Archipelago marine sanctuary Azura Quilalea Private Island is a sanctuary, somewhere to retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Beach-chic Quilalea sits quietly in its forest surroundings. Throughout, sandy pathways lead through the dappled shade of the forest to the villas and beaches, and a simple building style – adobe-style walls topped with traditional palm and simple timber shuttered windows – that taps into Robinson Crusoe fantasies. It’s enchanting and relaxing; the kind of place where you might never bother lock your room, and spend your time barefoot in swimware, circumnavigating the uninhabited island, identifying birds, turtle spotting, snorkelling, swimming and feasting on fresh food.
Set off on a nature walk through the baobabs and other indigenous vegetation, before enjoying a breakfast picnic on the beach beanbags.
See Quilalea Island from above on a flight over the coconut plantations and nearby islands, to get a real perspective of the archipelago.
Explore one of the most important heritage sites in Mozambique on Ibo Island, where you will see ancient ruins and silversmiths at work.
Swim just off the beach to explore Quilalea's house reef, to see colourful corals teeming with reef fish such as parrotfish and sweetlips.
Follow the marked trail to learn about the most iconic African tree - the baobab - and the birds and butterflies that call them home.
Quilalea is a primary nesting site for green, hawksbill and leatherback turtles, where you can see the hatchlings make their way to the shore.
Embark on a nature walk with a guide to see the 134 species of birds that call the island's giant baobabs home, including bee eaters.
Experience a once in a lifetime bath under a 3,000 year old baobab, complete with bubbles in a cast iron bathtub and a glass of champagne.
Start planning your truly bespoke itinerary by contacting one of our destination specialists.
Call +44 (0)203 137 1247
Call +1 (0) 800 635 8124
OR
The Haughtons
We really loved our time at Azura Benguerra - the beach here was perfect. The tide came right up to the edge of our beach cabana each evening at sundowner time. Both the staff and food were great and we were really well looked after. There was just the right amount of things to do, including fly fishing from the beach or from SUP and snorkelling. Overall it was just an incredible experience and we absolutely loved it – a real once in a lifetime trip.
Start planning your truly bespoke itinerary by contacting one of our destination specialists.
Call +44 (0)203 137 1247
Call +1 (0) 800 635 8124
OR