Africa, Southern Africa | Mozambique | Family, Group, Honeymoon, LGBT, Solo, Tailor Made | Boutique, Hotel | Beach | luxury
Perched atop of the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay in Vilanculos, Santorinis’ panoramic views of the archipelago islands and sweeping mainland are a truly absorbing sight. Santorini Mozambique evokes the sense of a small Greek village transferred to the heart of a natural African landscape, and make no mistake – this is a match made in heaven. This is a place where luxury is combined with humility and modesty, together producing a warm and rich elegance that will define your stay at Santorini. Originally developed as a boutique villa, the passion and ambition behind the project meant that it went far beyond those original plans. Instead, mystical pieces of heaven were added that ensured this villa, located in front of a dramatic backdrop, truly sparkled.
Santorini Mozambique
Vilankulos
Mozambique
Vilankulos is a gateway to the incredible Bazaruto Archipelago, a protected National Marine Reserve that makes up a chain of islands laid out like a pearl necklace. The town was one of Mozambique’s first proper tourist destinations. With regular flights coming in from South Africa and easy road access, Vilankulos is a popular destination with travellers. The town itself is only small, but it is filled with all the amenities you need to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible. The airport is on the town’s outskirts and flights arrive and depart daily. The archipelago is made up of five islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Banque and Santa Carolina (also known as Paradise Island).
- Large range of suites and villas
- Inventive dining
- Mesmerising views of the archipelago
- Plenty to do locally, including yoga, scuba diving and fishing
- Luxurious spa to rejuvenate the body
Do you love Greece, but also want to see Africa? Santorini Mozambique offers you the chance to stay in a Greek-style resort that places you on the edge of the African coastline. Situated in the popular village of Vilankulos, you are guaranteed to enjoy the incredible views of the Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of islands that are surrounded by a National Marine Reserve which protects the corals and wildlife found below the surface.
With plenty to see and do both at the accommodation and nearby, staying at Santorini will give you a true taste of Africa without having to compromise on style or luxury. It is a coastal paradise that will invite you back for more as soon as you head on home. Discover the wildlife, relax at the Spa and enjoy a canter along the beach. It’s all waiting for you at Santorini Mozambique.
One of five suites named for the islands of the archipelago, the Banque Suite has been created with the same colourful hues of the island it is named after.
Situated on the middle level of the main villa, this stylish room has a king size bed with fully-fitted mosquito netting for a peaceful sleep. The room is decorated with splashes of ocean colour, hand-beaded cushions and tropical stacked pebble lamps. The sparkling en-suite bathroom opens onto the room. Air conditioning is fitted for those hot summer nights and you will get your very own kikoi gown, beach sarong and locally-made beach bag for use during your stay.
Room Specifications:
- Bedroom size: 25sqm
- Sea facing suite
- King size bed
- En-suite bathroom with shower and double vanity unit
- Separate Toilet
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Private patio with loungers, table and chairs
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito net and repellent
- Desk/computer station
- Wifi internet
- Ipod docking station
- International plug adaptors
- Hairdryer
- Safe
The island of Bazaruto has huge sand dunes and a lighthouse built by the Portuguese over 100 years ago. Local legend states that pearls were collected for the Queen of Sheba on the coast of Bazaruto. The Bazaruto Suite is similarly extraordinary. The sliding glass doors open out onto a spacious patio where sunlight streams through the slatted wood above you as you look upon the archipelago. The carefully chosen pieces of furniture and art create a warm and serene vibe.
This generously-spaced suite offers a king size bed with fitted mosquito netting for a peaceful sleep. Air conditioning is fitted for those hot summer nights and you will get your very own kikoi gown, beach sarong and locally-made beach bag for use during your stay. The sophisticated en-suite bathroom comes with a large double vanity unit, toilet and a spacious double shower. The private patio also has an ocean view bath and shower hidden behind an elegant stone curtain for privacy.
Room Specifications:
- Bedroom size: 44sqm
- Sea facing suite
- King size bed
- Sea facing suite
- King size bed
- En-suite bathroom with shower and double vanity unit
- Separate Toilet
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Private patio with loungers, table and chairs
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito net and repellent
- Desk/computer station
- Wifi internet
- Ipod docking station
- International plug adaptors
- Hairdryer
- Safe
- Private outside bath and shower
Benguerra is one of the archipelago’s bigger islands. Freshwater crocodiles can still be found in each of the three lakes, a throwback to the island’s mainland past before it broke away thousands of years ago. Benguerra Suite is a cosy room found on the lower level of the main villa. The spacious suite offers a king size bed with fitted mosquito netting for a peaceful sleep. Air conditioning is fitted for those hot summer nights and you will get your very own kikoi gown, beach sarong and locally-made beach bag for use during your stay.
Benguerra boasts a beautiful bathroom with double shower, double vanity and a completely separate toilet with vanity unit.
Room Specifications:
- Bedroom size: 28sqm
- Sea facing suite
- King size bed
- En-suite bathroom with shower and double vanity unit
- Separate Toilet
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Private patio with loungers, table and chairs
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito net and repellent
- Desk/computer station
- Wifi internet
- Ipod docking station
- International plug adaptors
- Hairdryer
- Safe
Named after the third-largest island in the bay, this stretch of reef along the front of the island is bountiful with colourful corals and playful fish. The Magaruque suite has a unqiue elevated entrance which exudes romance and charm. The room then opens up onto a fully private patio area decored with sun loungers and an umbrella overlooking the same island it is named for.
This cute suite offers a king size bed with fitted mosquito netting for a peaceful sleep. Air conditioning is fitted for those hot summer nights and you will get your very own kikoi gown, beach sarong and locally-made beach bag for use during your stay. The gorgeous en-suite bathroom is made up of a double vanity unit, separate toilet, shower as well as a bath. Don’t forget to dip your sun-kissed skin into the luxurious bathtub, full of products from the range of Charlotte Rhys amenities.
Room Specifications:
- Bedroom size: 25sqm
- Sea facing suite
- King size bed
- En-suite bathroom with shower and double vanity unit
- Separate Toilet
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Private patio with loungers, table and chairs
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito net and repellent
- Desk/computer station
- Wifi internet
- Ipod docking station
- International plug adaptors
- Hairdryer
- Safe
Named after a tiny island also known as Paradise Island, a picturesque outpost surrounded by coral reefs, perfect white sand and the old hotel ruins. Legends and history whisper in the breeze from the shores of Santa Carolina. It may be one of the smaller islands, but this is the most luxurious and spacious suite that can be found in the Main Villa. This grand room comprises a king size bed with fully fitted mosquito netting, plus a large lounge area with panoramic views and a computer station area for those who need a working space.
There is both air conditioning and a ceiling fan for hot summer nights and let’s not forget the kikoi gown, beach sarong and locally made beach bag that you will find in the cupboard for use during your stay. The elegant en-suite bathroom has a double vanity unit, separate toilet and large shower. The views from Santa Carolina Suite extend all across Kingfisher Bay and are quite sensational. With its private staircase and as the only suite situated on the first floor, privacy and luxury are guaranteed.
Room Specifications:
- Bedroom size: 50sqm
- Sea facing suite
- King size bed
- En-suite bathroom with shower and double vanity unit
- Separate Toilet
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Private patio with loungers, table and chairs
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito net and repellent
- Desk/computer station
- Wifi internet
- Ipod docking station
- International plug adaptors
- Hairdryer
- Safe
A short walk away from the main Villa but far enough for total privacy, The Chapel at Santorini is the home of romance and tranquillity. The open-plan living space underneath the characteristic domed ceiling includes a lounge, dining area and guest bar stocked daily with delicious snacks and assorted iced beverages.
The detail and authenticity of this location is unmatched, from the old wooden church doors at the entrance to the meticulously selected glass mosaic tiles along the rim flow pool. The Chapel is an exclusive, intimate, 2 bedroom villa specifically created for the ultimate honeymoon or romantic getaway. However, it’s also suitable for small families or close friends lured by this quiet oasis, with a second suite that matches the quality of the first on the North side of the villa.
The spacious suites both have king size beds and sprawling bathrooms that create an unforgettable location. The outside living area has a large, covered patio complete with a BBQ, sitting and dining area, and a sparkling rimflow pool with loungers that overlook the archipelago. From here, it is easy to become immersed in this African paradise.
Room Specifications:
- Exclusive use Villa
- Two sea facing suites
- Each suite has a King size bed or twin beds
- En-suite bathrooms with double vanity unit, shower and toilet
- Master suite has a private toilet
- Master suite has a bathtub
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito nets and repellent
- Hairdryer and safe in each suite
- Ipod docking station in each suite
- International plug adaptors
- Complimentary Wifi
- Lounge with flat screen TV, DSTV and DVD player with disc selection
- Indoor and outdoor dining areas
- Guest kitchen with coffee machine and refreshments in the fridge
- Private rim-flow plunge pool
- Private beach access
- Private chef and host
Villa da Praia is Santorini’s exclusive beach villa, a perfect destination for small groups of friends or families travelling together.
It consists of no fewer three stunning suites, each on different levels with king size beds, fitted mosquito netting and large bathrooms with Charlotte Rhys amenities. Two of the suites have their own private patio but have no fear if you’re in the third, as you get a delicately manicured garden terrace and private separate entrance. Each suite is unique and roomy, with spoils of linen bedding, cotton bath towels, kikoi gowns and locally designed beach bags for use during your stay. The outdoor showers at the Villa da Praia are a special experience, allowing you to wash your body whilst gazing at the sensational views of the archipelago.
In true Santorini style, one can find exceptional, personal detail in every corner. The inviting décor, with hues of blues, natural textures and striking art pieces in rustic frames, is simple yet elegant, giving one a sense of complete tranquility. The main living areas have vast domed ceilings that stun the eyes. The outside living area has a large covered patio with BBQ, as well as a sitting and dining area that watches over the archipelago.
Room Specifications:
- Exclusive use villa
- Two sea facing suites (32sqm and 34sqm) and one garden facing suite with separate entrance (19sqm)
- Each suite has a King size bed or twin beds
- En-suite bathrooms with large shower and double vanity unit
- Separate Toilet
- Upstairs suite has a stand alone bathtub
- Inside and Outside showers in two suites
- Charlotte Rhys amenities
- Kikoi bathrobe, beach sarong and bag to use during your stay
- Air-conditioning
- Mosquito nets and repellent
- Hairdryer and safe in each suite
- Ipod docking station
- International plug adaptors
- Complimentary Wifi Internet
- Lounge with flat screen TV, DSTV and DVD player with disc selection
- Indoor and Outdoor dining areas
- Each suite has its own patio or garden terrace
- Private rim-flow swimming pool
- Guest kitchen with coffee machine and refreshments in the fridge
- Garden suite has coffee station and mini fridge in the room
- Private chef and host
The chefs at Santorini understand that food is sensual, that it is the intricate colours, flavours and aromas that entice us. They work on this magic variety to create tantalising tastes for every meal. With a varied selection at breakfast, a 3-course lunch available and 4 courses at dinner, there is no shortage of opportunities to savour their work. The vegetables and herbs are sourced from the Villa’s own garden, and the daily fresh sea harvest always reflect the daily menus.
There are a number of places for you to base your gastronomic experiences.
The courtyard offers a serene place to dine as you listen to the water trickle through the overflow pebbles. The martini pool is also an option, where you can watch the unique colours of the moon rise. Paraseo Escondidio is an open-air boma that offers enchanting dining underneath the clear night sky, where guests are treated with Greek style meze platters and a bottle of champagne to sweeten the evening. There is also the option of a private and romantic beach picnic for breakfast or lunch, with a variety of scrumptious food to choose from including wraps, salads and fruit or vegetable skewers.
Relax and rejuvenate at the dreamy Spa Na Colina at Santorini Mozambique. Hidden away on the hill amongst palm trees and luscious vegetation, the spa is gently lit and the carefully selected furnishing is inviting.
This Spa is a place where the rest of the world is far away and one can become completely immersed in serenity. The trickling sound of water captivates your ears as you enter the courtyard whilst the smell of fresh lemongrass, mint and lavender, growing in the antique local mokoro, provides a beautiful aromatic element.
Inspired by Africa and the ocean, the products used have been created with a passion of the marine world. The aromatherapy oils are infused with quintessentially African notes. You have the option to indulge in a signature treatment that uses local monkey apples to ground and balance the body. Each guest is treated to a welcoming foot ritual before their treatment.
Strengthen your body and bring peace to your mind and soul with a Hatha Yoga session, led by a qualified instructor. Hatha Yoga is composed of asanas (poses), meditation and breathwork. If you’d rather a more flowing type of movement, Vinyasa Yoga is also available.
Yoga takes place in a variety of locations, including the Sala Bar, spa courtyard and the beach. The host will await with some aromatic herbal tea and fruit-infused iced water for you once you have finished your session. This activity is outsourced and subject to the availability of the Yoga instructor. Pre-bookings are essential.
The Bazaruto Archipelago World Heritage Site and National Park is one of the largest marine conservation areas in the Indian Ocean, housing a a true ecological paradise. You can discover the wonders held in these waters with Dive Bazaruto, a Padi Certified Dive Centre that offers incredible diving opportunities in an underwater world unlike any other.
As you dive into the waters, you will find reefs full of life, including dolphins, hump back whales, sharks, rays, game fish, green turtles and giant lobster. The endangered dugong still exists here in small numbers, swimming in the shallow crystal waters that are also home to starfish, soft and hard corals, anemones, seahorses and a variety of beautiful tropical fish.
Other dive sites are on offer too, on the seaward side of San Sebastian, a lone point that stands in line with the islands.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a brilliant fishery. Various fish can be found, including Black Marlin that come to spawn along the coastline between September and January. Catches often weigh over 1000lbs, with the average catch being 300 – 600lbs. Blue and Striped Marlin can also be caught during these months.
Big game and heavy tackle fishing is at its peak from September to April, but sailfish peak in winter between May and September, so be sure to plan the timing of your trip accordingly. Plugging, spinning, jigging, conventional light tackle game fishing and fly fishing for an array of different species is available all year round.
Vilankulos is known for its amazing white sand beach, captivating golden sunsets and tall palm trees. The long beach stretches for tens of kilometres, allowing horse riders the opportunity to experience exhilarating canters and explorative trots. The views from the cliffs that overlook the Bazaruto Archipelago are unparalleled and will leave you with an image you will never forget.
There is an array of riding opportunities along the coast and inland that cater for everyone from beginners to experienced riders. The ideals of fun and adventure run deep at Mozambique Horse Safari, so saddle up and enjoy a one-of-a-kind African adventure.
There is a variety of Kite Surfing courses nearby to suit you, whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced surfer looking to step up to another level. “Nearby” is no joke either – the kite surfing school will come to you and your lesson will take place here on the shores of Santorini.
The birds have a great view of the local area and the Archipelago, so why not get your own experience of that?
Thanks to the brilliance of helicopters, tourists can see the Bazaruto Archipelago with its scenic wonders from above. Elegant flamingos, amazing sea life, crystal clear waters, golden dunes, historic lighthouses and pristine islands…this is nature’s artwork and you can get an unmatched view.
Fancy a slow day? Set sail and relax on Santorini’s traditional dhow, a hand-crafted African wooden vessel with distinctive lateen rigging. This ancient method of travel has been practiced in this region for centuries, where the craft of skippering dhows has been passed on from father to son for generations. Even today, it remains a vital part of everyday life in Kingfisher Bay. Travel by dhow is relaxed, simple and unhurried, making it the perfect way to experience a sunset in Mozambique. Shared sunsets are available on Santorini’s dhow, but it can also be booked exclusively for a quintessential romantic sunset cruise. Settle into comfy cushions for a laid-back experience, complete with canapés from Santorini’s chefs.
Open to children