Welcome to Vamizi, a place where nothing is too much trouble, a place to relax and enjoy complete privacy and seclusion, a place to explore and get up close to nature, a place of barefoot luxury where you can rejuvenate the soul, a place that will stay with you forever.
Now how do you get to a deserted island I hear you ask? With a little exploration and, yes, it may not be the easiest place to get to in the world, but then you did want to get away from it all and here’s how…. take a flight to Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania and from here we will organise your flight, in a small plane seating just 12 people, over to Vamizi. Alternatively you can fly into Pemba in Mozambique and again we will organise your transfer flight from here. The flight is an incredible experience in itself with the most unbelievable views over the ocean.
Upon arrival on the tiny landing strip there is a short, bumpy coral drive of around 45 minutes to the Vamizi Lodge and Private Villas. Despite being situated in one of the wildest places on earth, the island of Vamizi is the epitome of escapism, peacefully located among the Quirimbas Archipelago off the coast of northern Mozambique.
Now you can see what is meant by paradise… leave your flip flops behind and feel the sand between your toes, grab a cocktail and head off to see what the fuss is all about! Most might have in mind relaxing with a book on the beach as their activity of choice on a deserted island, but don’t be fooled as there are so many amazing activities to get involved in – you won’t want to sit down for long!
Home to one of the best dive spots in the world, the Vamizi seas have a ‘Big Five’ of their own, which includes; the Green Turtle, the Grey Reef Shark, the Giant Grouper, the Napoleon Wrasse and the Bumphead Parrotfish. Between the months of December and July, the turtles come up on the beach to nest, with peak periods in March and June. The incubation period lasts around 50 – 60 days depending on the temperature after which is the perfect time to see the arrival of baby turtles and watch them waddle down the beach under a starry nights sky.
Vamizi also has a fantastic ethos in that everyone here, all 1400 habitants, and its guests are obsessed with protecting the beautiful land that they are fortunate enough to call home. You also have a once in a lifetime opportunity to get involved with the local community and their projects. Upon meeting the locals, known as the Mwani people, meaning “people from the coast”, they will make you feel at ease in the beautiful surroundings and relaxed way of life.
You will find in Mozambique they mainly speak Portuguese, but here on Vamizi, the language of origin is known as Kimwani. There are a variety of projects you can involved in, which include; community projects, turtle monitoring, logging the ‘Big Five’ sightings, and even adopt and tag a Grey Reef Shark to help better understand these majestic creatures and minimise the unfortunate prospect of extinction.
On land you will dry off in seconds with the warm Indian Ocean sun so grab your sun cream and join one of the resident naturalists on an informative exploration through the trees with your chance to spot some of the incredible wildlife including 112 species of birds, Samango Monkeys and Giant Coconut Crabs. You will really experience Vamizi island life with the opportunity to monitor turtle nests, kayaking through the mangroves, mountain bike or walk through forest trails and take cultural tours to the small fishing community, the lighthouse and the ruins of the church and fort.
Having worked up a sweat, cool off in your Private Luxury Villa pool or throw open the doors of your Kitala and enjoy the gorgeous sea views.
Rehydrate at the fresh juice bar and enjoy some down time at the luxury spa. The entire island is a sanctuary, and there’s no better way to relax than with the expert treatments inspired by the islands abundance of local plants, minerals and herbs offered at the Lodge or in the privacy of the Luxury Villas. Stretch out those legs from the flight and enjoy a therapeutic yoga session to the sounds of the ocean washing against the shore.
It wouldn’t be luxury without the personable and exceptional services of the friendly staff here at the Vamizi Lodge. The dedicated team will cater to your every need with delicious fresh food. Whether you’re staying in the Kitala’s and dining at the Lodge or in the privacy of your Luxury Villa’s dining area, taking in the views over the island from the Villa’s rooftop Portuguese towers or enjoying an intimate picnic along the beach, indulge in the finest cuisine.
Vamizi is truly a breathtaking place, that has to be seen and experienced to be believed!
View the full stunning collection of Private Luxury Villas and Lodge Kitala’s here!
