Best hotels in Mozambique

Intimacy and romance are the cornerstones of any trip to this fabulous beach lodge, positioned on the northwest coast of Mozambique's second-largest island, Benguerra. The site is enchanting, nestled between the trees of an indigenous forest and overlooking the pristine beaches and waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago. And whilst it may look like something from a Bond film, the atmosphere is perfectly relaxed and oozes laid-back island vibes. Spend your days diving or snorkelling in the protected marine waters, home to tropical fish, turtles, whales, dolphins and Africa’s last remaining dugongs, munch fresh seafood on the beach, or cruise the glittering waters at sunset aboard a dhow. We guarantee that every hour will be magical.

A mere 20 minutes from the airport, ferried by your private driver, you enter the villa through a domed walkway surrounded by forest, manicured lawns and swaying palms. Privacy and sanctuary are the only words you will be uttering during your stay as you lap up the incredible vistas over the coastline just north of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Whether you are with the family or looking for a romantic couple escape you can't beat the sweet serenity of Santorini.

Nkwichi Lodge lies on the pristine Mozambican shoreline of Lake Malawi, in a beautiful secluded setting beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The lodge has been cleverly designed using natural materials to blend in with the surrounding boulder-strewn lakeshore, and offers superb accommodation, with a choice of five unique chalets, and two impressive fully staffed villas for the ultimate private experience. Activities are focused on and around the lake, with a good mix of water-based activities, and guided bush walks along the shores. This remote location is a perfect spot to relax, far from the distractions of modern life.

This thatched beachfront lodge on the northwest coast of Benguerra Island in the Bazaruto Archipelago oozes understated elegance. Known for its eco- and community-friendly management style, the charismatic local staff know their surroundings intimately and will look after your every need – most of them even help to build the lodge! Take advantage of the attentive hospitality, enjoy the bucket-load of activities on offer (kayaking, snorkelling, diving and star gazing to name a few), or simply relax on a recliner with a book and let the days unfold at their own leisurely, easy-going pace.

Having survived decades of turmoil and emerged on the other side, Gorongosa National Park is a champion for bringing wild spaces and species back from the brink. Part of this ongoing transformation is the development of a handful of properties, including the feather-light Chicari Camp. Built anew every season near a pan of the same name, Chicari is perfectly positioned to watch animals of every size and shape arrive for a drink at the water. The tents are canvas and classic with a superb view and the whole camp is wonderfully eco-conscious, which only makes you appreciate the hard-won setting even more.

With a view of lapping, turquoise waters and powder-fine sand, the resort feels like your own piece of paradise. Azura believes every day should be different and it's a promise they have no trouble keeping with activities like island-hopping, snorkelling and cocktails on the beach. Living up to Azura Retreat's reputation, the resort takes care of its seaside world - the villas were built by local people using sustainable materials and most furnishings were hand-crafted by communities across Southern Africa. Wake up to the sound of the surf from your private villa in a place where nothing is hurried.

Resting lightly among the dune forests on the shoreline of the Bazaruto Archipelago, Bazaruto Sands is an authentic, exclusive boutique ecolodge with a purpose. Thoughtfully designed spaces, genuine Mozambican hospitality, and a peaceful coastal setting come together to create a luxury that feels effortless and truly connected to place.