&Beyond Benguerra Vs Azura Benguerra

When choosing between &Beyond Benguerra and Azura Benguerra, two of the most luxurious resorts on Mozambique’s Benguerra Island, it’s essential to understand their similarities as well as their distinct differences. Both resorts promise a secluded island escape with an emphasis on eco-conscious luxury, but subtle nuances set them apart.

Location and Setting

Both resorts are situated on Benguerra Island, not far away from one another, surrounded by the same stunning beaches, turquoise waters and diverse marine life. Each offers direct access to the beach and the island’s tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape from the world.

Difference point: &Beyond Benguerra is slightly more tucked away in a natural, forested area, offering a more rustic, safari-lodge feel, Azura Benguerra’s location feels a touch more manicured with slightly easier access to nearby island spots and a more contemporary beachfront setup.

Accommodation and Design

Both &Beyond and Azura offer luxurious beachfront villas with private plunge pools, spacious decks, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The villas are designed to blend into the natural surroundings, and both resorts showcase eco-conscious architecture with local materials.

Difference point: &Beyond Benguerra’s design leans more towards a rustic, safari-lodge aesthetic, mixing traditional Mozambican style with a laid-back barefoot luxury vibe. Azura, on the other hand, is more modern and sleek, with villas that have a contemporary, minimalist style, suited to those who prefer a more polished design while still maintaining local touches.

Service and Personalisation

Both resorts excel in personalised service, with dedicated staff who go above and beyond to meet your needs. &Beyond’s reputation for high-end hospitality and bespoke service comes through, with an emphasis on personalised touches, such as private picnics and thoughtful surprises. Azura Benguerra offers a similar level of personalisation, but it incorporates a “butler-host” system, where each villa has a dedicated host who is your personal point of contact throughout your stay.

Dining Experience

Both &Beyond Benguerra and Azura Benguerra provide exceptional dining experiences that showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a focus on seafood. You can enjoy gourmet meals in various stunning settings, whether on the beach, in your villa, or in the main dining areas.

Difference point: &Beyond offers a more refined, curated dining experience, with menus that change daily and feature a higher level of gastronomic creativity. Azura offers a more relaxed, yet still gourmet approach, with Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are lighter and more informal, reflecting the resort’s laid-back atmosphere.

Activities and Experiences

Both resorts provide a similar range of activities that take advantage of the island’s pristine environment. Snorkelling, diving, dhow sailing, island-hopping, and cultural experiences are offered by both &Beyond and Azura. They each prioritise nature conservation and local community engagement.

Difference point: While the activities are largely the same, &Beyond Benguerra places a slightly stronger emphasis on its conservation and sustainability programs, with experiences tailored to educate guests about local wildlife and ecosystems. Azura, although also involved in conservation, is more focused on guest-driven experiences, such as private picnics and bespoke activities like horse-riding along the beach, providing a more flexible approach to how you spend your time.

Sustainability and Community

Both resorts are deeply committed to sustainability and the local community. They both use eco-friendly materials, engage in conservation efforts, and involve the local population in employment and training opportunities. Azura has a more prominent focus on its community involvement through its Rainbow Fund, which supports various social and educational projects on the island. &Beyond also has a strong sustainability ethos, but its focus is more on wildlife conservation and biodiversity, reflecting its origins in luxury safari lodges.

Difference point: Both approaches are commendable, but Azura’s contribution feels more embedded in the day-to-day life of the island’s local communities.

Price Point and Value

Both &Beyond Benguerra and Azura Benguerra sit at the luxury end of the spectrum, offering high-end, all-inclusive experiences. The price points are similar, with both resorts justifying their cost through personalised service, exceptional accommodation, and a pristine island setting.

Difference point: &Beyond tends to be slightly more expensive. Azura notably has more room categories and thus price options. Between the two Azura best value room type but also the most expensive villa category.

Final Thoughts

• Similarities: Both &Beyond Benguerra and Azura Benguerra offer exclusive, luxury escapes with personalised service, access to world-class marine life, and a focus on sustainability and community involvement. Guests at either resort will enjoy spectacular views, direct beach access, and an array of activities that immerse them in the natural beauty of the island.

• Differences in a Nutshell: The choice comes down to subtle differences in style, formality, and focus. &Beyond Benguerra offers a more refined, safari-lodge experience with a stronger focus on conservation, while Azura Benguerra provides a more contemporary, relaxed atmosphere with a focus on community and flexibility. If you prefer a more formal, curated luxury experience, &Beyond might be your best bet. If you want a stylish, modern beach escape with a casual vibe, Azura may be the ideal choice.

Can't decide between the options?

There's no best or obvious answer. Please contact us to discuss it in more detail.