Azura Quilalea

Azura Quilalea sits on a tiny private island in northern Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago, within a protected marine environment. Guests typically fly into Pemba and connect by helicopter directly to the island’s helipad in about 20–25 minutes. The setting is classic Indian Ocean: powder-white beaches, sculpted coral terraces and gin-clear shallows wrapped around a thriving house reef accessible from the main beach. With no day-trippers and minimal boat traffic, it feels wonderfully secluded, yet dive sites, mangrove channels and deserted sandbars for castaway picnics lie close by.

The island has nine villas in three categories: four Kaskazi Villas, four Kusi Villas and the cliff-top Villa Quilalea. All feature air-conditioning and fans, minibars, tea/coffee facilities and large bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers. Kusi Villas add premium beachfront positions, a beach sala and outdoor shower; several sources note added private plunge pools in recent updates. Villa Quilalea is the showpiece for couples, with a private plunge pool, expansive deck and a ladder down to the ocean. Each villa is steps from the sand with broad sea views.

Central spaces include a relaxed restaurant and bar, a wine cellar and a chill-out deck near the main bar/pool area. The watersports hub supplies snorkelling gear, sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, while the PADI-supported dive team runs daily outings to nearby reefs. Signature experiences include dhow sunset cruises and private castaway picnics on surrounding sandbars. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in key areas. Access is streamlined via helicopter from Pemba directly to the on-island helipad, keeping transfers short and scenic.