In the northern Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, there’s an ancient port town of Pemba, known for its traditional art- silver-vending souk and reef-filled waters off its shores. This is precisely where contemporary resort group Avani (the sister brand of Anantara) has opened its latest property and first in Africa: Avani Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa. Complete with four dining venues, four swimming pools, and a spa, it pairs everything guests need with all the exoticism of a far-flung locale.

A 15-minute drive from Pemba International Airport, the resort is in a dream location for water-enthusiasts and land-lubbers alike. Accessible from hubs such as Nairobi and Johannesburg, it’s a ideal base for accessing the nearby Quirimbas Archipelago of tropical islands with its abundant marine life still in a pristine state as well as the Niassa Reserve, where four of the “big five” animals are known to roam. And it’s a beautiful base at that; designed with African and Arabian influences, 185 guest rooms, suites, villas, and apartments overlook the Indian Ocean from their balconies and terraces—plush abodes to return to after days spent doing water sports, taking excursions into town, or enjoying romantic evening cruises.

For more information, visit Avani Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa.