If you’ve dreamed of the perfect desert isle, the kind you think are only possible in Photoshopped screen-savers, it exists and its name is Medjumbe.  Rani Resorts claimed this serpentine sandbar hovering above the turquoise water in Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago and made this private island into a 13-chalet honeymooner’s paradise.

On our 30-minute flight from Pemba, we were lucky enough to have the entire plane to Medjumbe to ourselves. Kicking back in our leather seats with extra legroom, we soaked up million dollar views to the dozens of islands and countless shades of blue below (see opening photo).

Upon arrival we were treated to welcome drinks in the heart of the hotel. This thatch roof bar and lounge always supplied to-die-for views, a cool breeze, and blissful cocktails.

Inspired by the island’s history and location along the spice route, Medjumbe’s décor had a hint of Arab, African, and Portuguese flair. Antique lanterns, weathered wood furniture, African pottery, and sea-glass colored pillows all mixed for a sexy coastal vibe.

After our delicious cocktails and a tour of the resort and its water sport facilities (more to come on our scuba excursion in our activities post), we were escorted to our private beach-front chalet. Waking up every morning to the sounds of the ocean and watching the sunset from our own private slice of beach was nothing short of magical.

Whether lazing in bed, cuddling on the love seat, soaking in the jacuzzi tub, rinsing in the outdoor shower, ocean views were always in sight. Then step outside the glass doors onto the wraparound terrace and the sand is at your feet.

As if the ocean directly in front of our room wasn’t enough, each suite had a massive sundeck complete with plunge pool for a late night dip or extra private sunbathing.

With views this mesmerizing at every meal, the chef could have served us gruel and we probably wouldn’t have noticed, but instead Medjumbe served up some of the best meals we had during our entire 100-day African honeymoon. Lobster and mango salads, coconut seafood paella,  peppered Trinhado steak—the array of flavors and bounty of choices never ceased to amaze.

The food was so good in fact that the island’s bird life would occasionally invite themselves to meals. The pretty and petite Lesser Masked Weavers would politely perch about the dining room. If you didn’t know better you might just think they were part of the décor.

More than pretty to look at, Medjumbe is filled  with things to do. From scuba, kayaking, to beach combing,  see all the activities they have to offer honeymooners in our next post.

Much love from Medjumbe,
Anne & Mike
HoneyTrek.com

Note: Medjumbe invited us to be their guests; however, all opinions are our own.