If you've not been to Mozambique then you're missing a trick. Think white sand beaches, ridiculously turquoise seas, lifestyles of the rich and famous and the world's best luxury lodges and bam! Whether it's the Bazaruto Archipelago or the rolling dunes of Inhambane's spectacular coastline where palm trees do that obligatory swaying thing, Moz is magic. That's things in a nutshell. So read on if you'd like to sample the nut that came out of it...

We've got a confession to make. It's winter here in South Africa and we're missing our cozzies. And when it comes to tiny weeny, incy wincy bikinis and boardshorts (no budgie-smugglers please) there's nowhere nicer to show them off than the insanely gorgeous bit of coastal delight that is Mozambique.

"Moz" is captivating and a global beach destination on the rise. With 2,700km of virtually undeveloped coastline, it's easy to understand why. Add in a vibrant melting pot of a culture, rich history, warm, welcoming people and easy access to South Africa's Greater Kruger region and you have safari gold.

First up, let's look at the Bazaruto Archipelago. Let your imagination wander for a moment... To unspoilt islands within a pristine marine national park.... Endless deserted beaches with powder-soft sand... Perfect, sparkling seas, interrupted by local dhows plying their trade... Swaying palms, gentle breezes, sunny days and star-studded nights... OK. You can wake up now. It's all real, ready and waiting for you!

Accessed by the bustling little town of Vilanculos which has a great international airport, the Bazaruto Archipelago lays just off the mainland and is made up of five islands - Bazaruto (the biggest), Benguerra (the best, in our humble opinion) and the rocky Santa Carolina, snorkelling Mecca of Magaruque and petite paradise of Banque.

There are amazing accommodation options both on the mainland near Vilanculos and on Benguerra island, all of which redefine the notion of barefoot luxury and cause us to drool longingly just by looking at their pictures.

Let's have a butcher's hook at a few of our faves...

On the mainland

Santorini Mozambique: With spectacular views of forever across the entire archipelago, Santorini is located in an elevated position a 20-minute drive north of Vilanculos. It's just salivatingly gorgeous, with a whitewashed Mediterranean-style, lots of sparkling pools (turquoise, of course) and more beach style than you could throw a stick at. It caters for romantic couples, families and small groups of friends travelling together in a variety of accommodation options from double rooms to the four-bedroom Villa da Praia. Santorini also has its own 38 ft Supercat Catamaran and a 27 foot fishing and leisure boat available for charters. 

Bahia Mar:  A boutique hotel also in Vilanculos, Bahia Mar is a champion of sustainability and dope at entertaining kids! There's a strong family spirit here and lots of activities that are tailored to children. It also offers wonderful retreat options focusing on revitalising body, mind and spirit, all complemented by sensational views of the ocean from its hilltop position overlooking the beach and the archipelago. Rooms and suites all share these incredible vistas.

As Dunas: A small, boutique lodge some 20 minutes' drive north of Vilanculos, As Dunas is an understated masterpiece that combines laid-back rustic beach resort chic with warm Mozambican hospitality, excellent accommodation, top-notch nosh and gob-smacking views of what has to be one of the most ridiculously blue stretches of ocean anywhere. Choose between air-conditioned cottages or tented suites - all with awesome (blue) vistas.

On Benguerra

Kisawa Sanctuary: One of the new kids on the (sand) block on this gorgeous island, Kisawa sits on 5km of pristine tropical coastline and it's raison d'etre is combining maximum privacy with minimum impact on the natural environment. It also proudly showcases Mozambique's rich design culture of celebrating craft and heritage and supports marine research and conservation. With a natural wellness centre, a choice of accommodation options for couples and families alike, Kisawa is delightfully different.

&Beyond Benguerra Island: An island retreat in every sense of the phrase, this lodge has mastered the art of barefoot luxury and then some. Sumptuous accommodation, superlative service and elegant, laid-back style meet beach bar chic in a brilliant blaze of beach glory. Did we mention the incredible views and jaw-dropping dining options? And the fabulous activities? Snorkelling, diving, paddle-boarding... You know the drill.

Azura Benguerra: The Earth Mother of Benguerra with sustainability credentials to die for, Azura is quite simply outstanding. Built entirely by hand in partnership with the local community, its spacious and drop-dead gorgeous designer villas, each with their own private pool stretching out to the Indian Ocean beyond, are located just steps from the beach. They were designed to offer the ultimate getaway in this magnificent beach paradise and combined with just incredible hospitality, the most amazing food and effortlessly easy hospitality add up to a killer destination.

A worthy addition to this post

Travessia: Further down the coast, just north of Inhambane, lies another Zafaris favourite - Travessia. Offering complementary road transfers to and from Vilanculos, this hidden gem is absolutely fabulous and oozes with a Robinson Crusoe-like charm and castaway ambience. Far from the madding crowds but easily accessible, it's tucked away in a grove of palm trees on a dune overlooking the ocean, with a rope bridge connecting it to a vast, seemingly unending and completely deserted beach. Just go there. It's amazing.

Text: Sharon Gilbert-Rivett