Rio Azul Lodge

Returned for our third visit to Rio Azul Lodge, and once again, it exceeded all our expectations. This family-friendly lodge, set on an estuary near Inhassoro, Mozambique, is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From the stunning location to the exceptional service, Rio Azul is always a memorable experience. Mark, the General Manager, continues to shine as the face of the lodge. As always, he went above and beyond to make our stay as comfortable as possible. His attention to detail and willingness to assist with anything makes all the difference in ensuring a great time. The staff at Rio Azul are simply fantastic. Bruno, the driver, was always punctual and accommodating, ensuring our transport was smooth and effortless. Carlos and Jeremai, the waiters, were friendly, attentive, and always made us feel special with their warm service. The housekeeping team was efficient, ensuring our rooms were always spotless and comfortable. And the boat staff were top-notch, assisting with everything from setting up fishing gear to ensuring our boat trips went off without a hitch. The fishing was outstanding, and we cannot thank Skipper Stuart enough. He is an expert at what he does and always knew the best spots to catch fish. Each outing was filled with excitement and success, making this a highlight of our stay. Fishing in the estuary on the lodge’s estuary boats was equally rewarding. The boats are comfortable, and we had great success catching fish right there in the estuary. On one of our days, the lodge even packed us lunch so we could spend the entire day fishing without having to leave the water—such thoughtful service! The food at Rio Azul was consistently amazing. Chef James outdid himself with each meal, especially the fresh crayfish, prawns, and fish. The seafood pasta is a must-try. Freshly baked goods (cinnamon buns, chocolate chip cookies and pastel de nata’s) for tea was a highlight. For Christmas Eve, the beach braai was a standout experience, with delicious sushi and crayfish served in an incredible setting. The combination of fresh ingredients and James' culinary expertise made every meal a treat. A boat trip to Paradise Island is an absolute must! The excursion included lunch on the island and snorkelling in the reserve, which was an unforgettable experience. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters offered the perfect setting for a day of relaxation, exploration, and fun. The snorkelling in the reserve was particularly special, with vibrant marine life and coral reefs to admire. The only downside of our holiday was due to another guest at the lodge who was rather negative, shouting, and throwing his weight around. Thankfully, he departed early, and the remainder of our stay was peaceful and enjoyable, as we’ve always experienced at Rio Azul. Rio Azul Lodge remains a top destination for anyone looking for a laid-back yet thrilling vacation in Mozambique. The combination of world-class fishing, exceptional food, and out

Absolute horrific experience and never to be recommended. Lodge is run like a family private lodge with John's Family taking preference at all times over guests. Returning guests and buddies of Mark (GM) and John (owner) also gets preferential treatment in the form of boat cruises, island visits. Absolutely no consistency in the manner how guests are treated. Some guest's kids are provided snacks during the day yet ours not and never offered. Some other guests kids get offered a tube ride behind the boat, when asking Mark about this, he states he does not charge a fee, as long as the owner is not on site. Where is the integrity? Lodge advertises a small estuary boat for each unit and all-inclusive other than premium international spirts. Total lies and fake advertising! After discovering that there are not enough of these estuary boats, we booked the use of these boats with a clear agreement with the General Manager Mark made the night before. With fishing rods, cooler box all prepared the night before and with my son excited and up and ready at 5:00am, 1st disappointment strikes us, as no boat was available, as the owner's son & other family member decided to take our boat, with the fishing rods and cooler also nowhere to be found. John's niece then tries rectifying the matter with all sorts of lies and stories - trying to convince us that they will get another boat ready not realizing that I have already personally spoken to the boathouse staff - with all of them not recommending the use of another motor, stating its unsafe for use. (What cheek to try and send me and my family out to sea on an unsafe motor). Following the above, Mark the GM makes a very poor, lazy yet arrogant gesture & statement to myself ordering me out of the pool to offer his apology - stating to me "Come and see me in my office" as if I am a scholar summoned to the principal's office. John the owner later then acknowledges that they dont have enough motors in good safe working condition - blaming the arrival of parts being delayed by most recent protest actions. Did they not know the lodge will be having higher occupancy over December? John the owner offers a trip to one of the islands at no costs as a gesture to make up for their mess, with another staff member (Stuart - the skipper) having also offered to take us out for a fishing experience. Following up on this the next day - Mark the GM states to me the trip to the Island will have to be paid for. How if John the owner has committed to such? Second set back Dinner (simple crayfish BBQ) meant for 19h00, is served only at 21h00, with crayfish on the BBQ for over an hour. Mark the GM providing the excuse that a new braai was used for the first time. (Only to be repeated again 5 nights later for a second time - with kids left hungry and some of the other guests left to return to the rooms). Mark then tries to send food to rooms. Owner John however had a problem with my son opting for something off

My husband and I had the best week at Rio Azul. Our accommodation was perfect comfortable and clean. We were thoroughly spoilt by all the staff who were friendly and attentive. The food was first class, delicious and plentiful. The chef even made us some rusks to take home with us as I liked them so much. The villa was on the sea and to wake in the morning to such a spectacular view was indescribable. There were plenty of activities to be had, my husband loves fishing so was kept happy and busy. We had a fabulous day on an island and had lunch there. I thank Mark and all the staff at Rio Azul for making our week there perfect and memorable.

Quando decidimos passar o meu aniversario no Rio Azul Lodge, não esperávamos que fosse tão encantador e inesquecível. Começamos a sentir o encantamento logo na nossa chegada, no aeroporto de vilanculos, com a recepção tão calorosa do transfer Bruno, o motorista do lodge, simpático, conversador e com uma condução muito regrada. Esta companhia maravilhosa tornou a nossa viagem de 2h:30 mtos pelas estradas esburacadas de vilanculos a Inhassoro muito mais leve. Não posso deixar de mencionar as chamussas de caranguejo quentinhas e gostosas e as bebidas frescas que trouxe para animar o nosso percurso. Ao chegar a lodge fomos recebidos muito gentilmente e calorosamente pelo Mark e sua incrível equipa. Estivemos 3 noites incríveis hospedas neste lodge onde todos os dias éramos surpreendidos pela boa disposição, sorrisos e a preocupação constante do staff em nos deixar tranquilos e confortáveis. O Mário, o Bar Man nos preparou cocktail deliciosos e estava sempre a postos para nos atender. O Mark foi impecável na forma como acompanhou a nossa estadia durante esta temporada, providenciou-nos alguns belos passeios e no dia dos meus anos desde o pequeno almoço, o piquenique na praia até ao jantar a beira mar, tudo organizado com carinho e ao mínimo detalhe. Desde o sushi a lagosta gigante grelhada estava tudo delicioso. No final ainda tive o bolo de anos que foi a surpresa para fechar o dia com a chave de ouro. As águas quentes e limpas de Inhassoro, convidam-me a pensar numa próxima viagem para este destino. Fica aqui os meus agradecimentos ao Mark e toda a sua equipa pelos dias que aí passamos e muito especial pelo dia de aniversário cheio de animação que me providenciou. Recomendo este lugar paradisíaco para quem desejar, paz, tranquilidade, leveza e natureza.

We had an incredible experience! I could not recommend it more highly. We were fortunate enough to have booked over New Year, which coincided with the owners, John and Jane, who were incredibly warm and welcoming. Location: Amazing. Completely secluded from other lodges, beach and estuary to yourselves - would give the location a 6/5 - truly special. Food: James (Head Chef) knows what he is doing. The food is simple yet wholesome and delicious. You will also never go hungry as they cater for absolutely everyone. Rooms: We stayed in a chalet (number 4), which was heaven. Arguably the best chalet - although 3 would be a good debate too. Perfect balance between rustic luxury with all the comforts you could want. Activities: One of the most active holidays I have had. Of course, you could chill in your private chalet/villa and read or lounge by the pool for hours, but there was so much beauty to explore for us. The tinnies (estuary boats) are a great addition, making getting around very easy. Mark (lodge manager) was exceptional and had a great understanding of what we would be keen for. We did BD island, Paradise Island, to name a few, and I would recommend them. Mark really goes out of his way to ensure your stay is a happy one. Shadrack (Head barman), Gildo (Headwaiter) and all staff are excellent and attentive. We honestly can't wait to be back!

The Rio Azul adventure began straight off the plane. Bruno, our transfer driver, kept us entertained all the way to lodge, doing the ‘jigga jigga’ around the famous Mozambican potholes and made sure we had a custom coolbox with drinks and snacks for the drive. As we stepped foot into the lodge we just knew we could leave crazy day to day life behind. We were personally greeted by each staff member to meet the team, with a delicious coconut welcome drink and beautiful presented snack to warm the appetite. A small glimpse of what was in store for us for the rest of our stay. The lodge is tasteful designed with comfy, crisp white furniture inside and out. The Deck area is the place to be to stare endlessly out at the magnificent blue water under the shade of the trees that nestle the deck like a luxurious tree house. Or drink the Mozambique local, 2M beers on a pool lounger around the pool. The lodge has a very peaceful atmosphere, making sure you always have a very homely feel, and you can truly just kick back and relax. Private rooms where you can literally sleep with the door open to enjoy the cool evening breeze tucked under the Mozzie net. A trip to BD island is a must for anyone staying at Rio Azul. An island that only exists at low tide is something quite special to see. The team ensures that all the comforts of the lodge are brought with to the island to enjoy a lunch on what felt like our own private beach. The seafood was out of this world! Freshly caught Crayfish, Prawns, Crab, Calamari, Fish and even Sushi! I don’t think I could ever order seafood from a restaurant again after this indulgence. The Team pulled it out of the bag with the most spectacular beach braai for New Years, where the evening could be enjoyed watching the sunset with our feet in the sand, sipping cocktails, chilling around a giant fire pit listening chilled beats and of course smashing as much seafood as our bellies would allow. We were truly looked after from start to finish, anything the team could do to make the stay perfect was done. Rio Azul is something quite special. We will definitely be back! John and Louise