Villa Santorini Mozambique has unveiled a new private helicopter landing pad, officially launched on 1 September 2025. Located directly on the property, the pad offers guests seamless access to the lodge and opens up a world of unforgettable aerial experiences.
Whether arriving in style or soaring over the nearby Bazaruto Archipelago, guests can now skip the drive from Vilanculos and take a scenic or transfer flight that sets the tone for a luxurious stay.
Scenic flights reveal the archipelago’s splendour
From the sky, the beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago comes alive. Flamingo-filled shallows, golden sand dunes, rippled sandbanks and marine park reefs are best appreciated from above. Helicopter scenic flights from Santorini deliver this unforgettable perspective in minutes.
Direct transfers make arrival effortless
Guests can now opt for a 3–4 minute private helicopter transfer from Vilanculos directly to Santorini’s doorstep. Upon landing, they are welcomed into a private arrival lounge while luggage is taken care of. The result is a smooth, scenic start to any stay.
Reef-safe sunscreen and fresh aloe at the ready
In keeping with the lodge’s commitment to marine conservation, Santorini recommends guests use SolRX sunscreen, available at the Pansy Shell Curio Shop. This dermatologist-developed product is free from oxybenzone and formulated with WATERBLOCK technology to stay on the skin without harming coral or marine life.
For those who may overindulge in the Mozambican sun, the spa team offers a freshly prepared aloe vera treatment using garden-grown ingredients — a thoughtful, natural remedy.
Community impact through Santorini Footprints
The Santorini team continues to make a tangible difference in local communities through its Santorini Footprints initiative. Recent highlights include:
- Supporting a local tailor, Helder, to join the inaugural Community and Nature-Based Tour Guiding Course in partnership with Maputo National Park
- Donating 4,000 MZN to bring joy to 300 children on Children’s Day across Muabsa and Quewene
- Providing 22 local students with full school access kits, covering books, uniforms, shoes and fees
With education costs rising, each school kit now costs USD 65, but the return on that investment remains invaluable.
Next step: teacher housing project
Looking ahead, Santorini is fundraising to build four safe and durable homes for teachers who live and work on the school grounds. At USD 1,375 per unit, the total fundraising goal is USD 5,500. Construction is targeted to begin in 2026.
Giving back is just a click away
Through the GlobalGiving platform, guests and supporters can donate directly to the Santorini Footprints project. The current campaign, School Feeding in Chigamane (Project ID: 71134), helps fund community-led education and wellbeing initiatives near the lodge.
Celebrating a decade of dedication
Two of Santorini’s longest-serving team members, Calistro and Paulino, were recently honoured for 10 years of service.
- Calistro, who started as a barman, now leads as a Duty Manager. Known for his resourcefulness and connection to the local community, he also runs a family firewood business.
- Paulino, Santorini’s resident skipper, brings decades of local knowledge and a deep passion for the sea. Guests appreciate his warm presence and encyclopaedic knowledge of the Bazaruto waterways.
Their loyalty and leadership are a cornerstone of the guest experience at Santorini Mozambique.
