&Beyond Vamizi Island Lodge Review: Experiencing Remote Barefoot Luxury in the Quirimbas Archipelago

&Beyond Vamizi Island Lodge is a property that truly embodies the spirit of a remote, exclusive island retreat. Set on a vast, untouched island in the Quirimbas Archipelago, Vamizi offers an experience that feels worlds away from anywhere else, making it a standout among Mozambique luxury beach resorts.

A First Glimpse of Remoteness

From the moment we arrived, the sense of isolation was profound. The island’s long, powder-soft beaches stretched in both directions, with only the sound of the ocean and the rustle of the rainforest behind us. Accommodations are spread so widely that we rarely glimpsed another guest unless we sought them out. This remoteness is not just a feature-it’s the essence of Vamizi’s appeal.

Accommodation: Spacious Private Villas Mozambique

Our stay in Casa Marajani, one of the private villas, was both serene and luxurious. The villa, with five bedrooms, was ideal for families or groups, but even with just five of us, it felt like a private sanctuary. Each villa opens directly onto the beach, with the ocean just steps from the deck.

Highlights of the villas:

• Expansive layouts, from intimate one-bedrooms to multi-bedroom estates

• Direct beach access and panoramic ocean views

• Dedicated staff, including a private chef and driver, who ensured our needs were anticipated and met

• Thoughtful design with East African influences, handcrafted woodwork, and open-air lounges

We noticed that some villas, including ours, do not have private pools, and during high tide, the beach can all but disappear. For those who prioritize uninterrupted sand, we would recommend villas further from the dive center, which offer longer stretches of beach and even multiple pools.

Dining: Vegan Cuisine in Every Setting

Dining at Vamizi Island Lodge was a daily highlight. Every meal showcased fresh, locally sourced, plant-based ingredients modified to meet our preferences, with a focus on inventive vegan cuisine. We enjoyed the variety and quality, from vibrant salads to creative mains, and appreciated that meals were served in different scenic spots around the island.

Activities: Diving, Nature, and Exploration

Vamizi Island Lodge is renowned for offering some of the best diving Mozambique has to offer. Our dive at Neptune’s Arm, despite challenging conditions, revealed spectacular coral formations and a rich marine environment. The dive site is legendary, and we learned that visibility can be extraordinary during certain months.

Other activities we enjoyed:

• Snorkeling trips by boat to nearby reefs, with beautiful coral but modest fish diversity during our visit

• Guided kayaking through mangrove creeks, a peaceful and photogenic experience

• Sunset dhow cruises, offering unforgettable views and a sense of timelessness

• Wildlife spotting with the help of knowledgeable staff, including coconut crabs and monkeys

• Guided walks to the island’s lighthouse and through the rainforest interior, revealing the island’s biodiversity

Service and Sustainability

What truly distinguishes Vamizi Island Lodge is its commitment to sustainable travel Mozambique and community engagement. The partnership with the World Wildlife Fund is evident in conservation efforts, and we were able to visit the local village and school, gaining insight into both the island’s culture and the positive impact of the lodge.

Notable aspects of service and sustainability:

• Staff members like Joana, who facilitated meaningful village visits and shared conservation knowledge

• Personalized attention from our villa team, who made us feel both cared for and at home

• Eco-conscious practices throughout the property, from solar power to rainwater harvesting

What Stood Out to Us

What We Loved

• The profound sense of remoteness and privacy

• Spacious, beautifully designed private villas with direct beach access

• Exceptional vegan cuisine, with meals tailored to our preferences and served in stunning locations

• World-class diving and access to pristine marine environments

• Warm, attentive staff who made every experience feel personal

• Strong commitment to sustainability and community involvement

What to Consider

• Some villas lack private pools, and high tide can limit beach access

• Snorkeling is only accessible by boat and is weather dependent

• Families with young children should be mindful of open balconies

• Service can be leisurely, but the relaxed pace suits the setting

Final Verdict

Vamizi Island Lodge is more than just a Mozambique luxury beach resort. It is a place where remoteness and barefoot luxury converge, offering a rare opportunity to disconnect and immerse in nature. For those seeking a Mozambique beach holiday that combines exclusivity, sustainability, and genuine tranquility, Vamizi Island Lodge is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.