Azura Quilalea Private Island
Azura Quilalea is a hidden paradise, the perfect place to escape the hectic everyday life and immerse yourself in a world of white sandy beaches, mangroves, and giant baobab trees, experiencing unforgettable encounters with local wildlife. As the second luxury retreat of the Azura Retreats Group in the Indian Ocean, the hotel enjoys a unique location on an otherwise uninhabited island, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Quirimbas Archipelago, a protected marine area. As a leading force in the luxury travel industry, Azura Quilalea presents itself with relaxed understatement and has already received numerous awards such as the Safari Awards for the Best Marine Safari Experience and as the Most Romantic Safari Property, and has been ranked first in the categories of Luxury Private Island Resort, Luxury Romantic Villas, and Luxury Eco/Green Villa.
Details
Country
Mozambique
City
Quilalea Island
Rooms
The nine beach villas of Azura Quilalea evoke a Robinson Crusoe vibe, combined with luxurious comfort, elegant African decor, and all modern amenities. The spacious villas on the private island are the perfect place to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate, just a few steps from the beach yet a private retreat ensuring absolute intimacy. The furnishings blend seamlessly with the island surroundings by using natural materials such as wood, cotton, rope, pebbles, and rattan, and on the private terrace, lounge furniture is ready for sunbathing. All villas also feature a private energy control system, allowing guests to regulate their ecological footprint.
Culinary
At Azura Quilalea, gastronomy becomes an experience: from a hearty breakfast right by the water, a picnic on a deserted island, to a candlelight dinner on the beach under the stars. The menus are based on fresh local ingredients, focusing on light dishes, simple products, and plenty of fresh fish and seafood. The large mangrove crabs are a particular specialty, as are the crabs that are plentiful in this region. There is always a selection of various dishes available, and special dietary needs and preferences of guests are taken into account.
Activities
This exclusive paradise offers, in addition to the amenities of the beach villas, a diverse range of activities where you can explore the unspoiled nature and rich wildlife of the region. From a romantic picnic under baobab trees on Turtle Beach, the island's most beautiful beach, to scenic helicopter flights, a visit to Ibo Island with fascinating architecture, ancient ruins, and an insight into cultural history, to guided nature walks with birdwatching. The marine world around the island is a paradise for water activities such as kayaking or diving; the reef off the island can be explored at any time while snorkeling, and the island is a significant nesting site for various sea turtles.
Location
Quilalea Island is one of the southernmost islands in the unspoiled Quirimbas Archipelago, 50 km north of Pemba. Together with the sister island Sencar, Quilalea is one of the few properties located in a completely protected marine reserve, ensuring a wealth of marine life. As the only island in Mozambique with its own reef accessible directly from the beach, Quilalea is a paradise for snorkeling and diving. Guests can reach the island with a 25-minute flight from Pemba in Mozambique, which is served by various African countries such as South Africa, Nairobi, and Tanzania.
