Determining Distance's Worth with Waters: A Long Journey Worth Pursuing
Savor the beauty of Mozambique's pristine coastline, often compared to African paradise. With its 1,600 miles of glistening Indian Ocean shoreline, this hidden gem provides an unforgettable experience for any sand-and-sea lover. I once journeyed through the Quirimbas Archipelago's untouched islands, camping on the shores of each new island each night. For years, this vibrant capital, Maputo, along with itsColonial and brutalist architecture, has drawn me during road trips. However, Mozambique's allure was largely lost to many American travelers due to distance and historical setbacks, like the civil war that ended in 1992 and political unrest.
Fortunately, luxury resorts have been popping up in Mozambique since the late 2000s, replacing the exotic chaos with refined elegance. A standout among these resorts is the intimate, gorgeously located &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Located just a 10-minute helicopter ride from Vilankulo on the mainland, Benguerra boasts sprawling casinhas with Afro-India-Portuguese flair. Its balmy, soulful vibe is reflected in every cobalt chaise longue, bedspread, and tiled outdoor shower. Come sunset, I often find myself on my hanging daybed in my beachside sala, gazing out at the horizon as a dhow's sails billow in the breeze.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush alongside relaxation, the marine environment surrounding Benguerra offers endless opportunities to explore. Oceanic activities are plentiful, and &Beyond's Oceans Without Borders conservation initiative encourages guests to take an active role in protecting this treasure trove of marine life. If I ever tire of the beach, day trips into the island's dense forests of casuarina and cashew trees reveal abundant birdlife, from flamingos to pelicans.
But don't just take my word for it. Explorers and beach bums alike are bypassing Zanzibar and the Seychelles for Mozambique's pristine shores. With the recent opening of Kisawa Sanctuary on Benguerra Island and Azura's latest property here, it's no wonder that Mozambique is quickly becoming a go-to destination for post-safari escapes or a stand-alone getaway.
- The vibrant city of Maputo, with its colonial and brutalist architecture, is a must-visit for travel enthusiasts during road trips.
- The untouched islands of the Quirimbas Archipelago offer an unparalleled camping experience, perfect for sand-and-sea lovers.
- Lured by the allure of luxury, many resorts have popped up in Mozambique since the late 2000s, transforming the exotic chaos into refined elegance.
- Nestled in the Bazaruto Archipelago, the intimate &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge boasts Afro-India-Portuguese flair, catering to those who appreciate style and luxury.
- For adrenaline seekers, Benguerra's marine environment offers a myriad of activities, including snorkeling, diving, and sailing, while the Oceans Without Borders conservation initiative encourages an active role in protecting marine life.
- The recent opening of Kisawa Sanctuary and Azura's latest property on Benguerra Island have contributed to Mozambique's rising popularity as a destination for fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts and food-and-drink connoisseurs.
- In the heart of the island's dense forests, casuarina and cashew trees offer a picturesque setting for birdwatching, with flamingos, pelicans, and other exotic birds taking flight.
- If you're planning your next holiday, consider swapping Zanzibar and the Seychelles for Mozambique's pristine shores, an outstanding choice for a post-safari escape or a stand-alone getaway.
