Located on the northern coast of Benguerra Island, the second largest of the islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique, Azura at Gabriel’s is set in an environment that couldn’t be more exotic or tropical. This is a place of swaying palm trees, blindingly white sand beaches, azure water, gentle sea breezes, an abundance of sunshine and starry nights.
Azura at Gabriel’s is the very first luxury eco-lodge in this corner of Africa, an eco-friendly retreat established and built by hand in collaboration with the local people. The local population numbers about 2,000, of whom more than 300 are children. Those children are able to go to school with the help of the Azura’s Rainbow Fund Charity, which funded the construction of the school. Benguerra Island has no stores, with the exception of tiny trading posts, adding to the secluded and exotic charm of this amazing place. Guests are, therefore, advised to bring everything they need with them when staying at the lodge.
The lodge is made up of only 18 villas, all equipped with private infinity swimming pools, outdoor showers, a beach shower, a sundeck and a beachfront sala. The villas were built with locally sourced wood and decorated with locally made works of art, and have thatched jekka roofs. All villas lie mere steps from the sandy beach and the warm Indian Ocean. The public areas are exquisite as well and include a dining lounge, a well-stocked bar, a library with internet access and a TV, a museum, a beach bar and grill, and a water sports center.
Set in what could only be described is a paradise-like environment, the lodge features a wide range of outdoor activities and water sports. It has, for instance, its own five-star dive center, where guests can get their PADI license and rent diving equipment. Scuba diving and snorkeling are possibly the most popular things to do—guided boat trips are strongly recommended. Other fun water sports include the suggested Island Hop boat trip in the Bazaruto Archipelago, deep-sea and shore fishing, and sunset cruises in the lodge’s own dhow.
On land, guests can enjoy massages and other spa treatments, or explore the island on nature walks, or go bird watching, horseback riding, or picnicking on a secluded beach.
In addition to the sun, sand and sea, food is a main feature of the Azura at Gabriel’s. The restaurant is managed by an internationally renowned chef whose signature dishes will never disappoint. Food is prepared with the freshest Mozambican produce—most of it is home-grown or caught nearby. Additionally, the wine cellar stocks an impressive array of brands from the lodge’s owners’ very own château in the Loire Valley in France.
Whether you like to be pampered, want to go scuba diving, enjoy sunbathing or get to know a local culture, Azura at Gabriel’s has everything you are looking for (and more).
