Extraordinary Adventures in a Remote African Archipelago
In the remote Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of Mozambique, the Indian Ocean teems with marine life and jewel-like waters surround a cluster of six paradise islands. On the largest of these, Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort offers luxurious exclusivity to explore it all. Inspiring travellers with a sense of adventure, the private island hideaway showcases its extraordinary destination with incomparable experiences, and also goes the extra mile to help conserve its precious environment.
Explore the untouched beauty of island nature and wildlife
Connecting with wild nature is a given on Bazaruto Island. Flora and fauna flourish undisturbed. Tropical beauty dazzles at every turn. Carving pathways of authentic discovery, the insider knowledge of local guides is second to none, and signature experiences are plentiful.
Providing a vibrant sanctuary for ornithologists, more than 180 bird species include palearctic migrants and waders, as well as huge flocks of pelicans and flamingos that frequent the coastal lakes and tidal pools. Nature tours lead keen bird watchers to prime viewing spots, and expert guides enrich the experience with fascinating insights.
Equestrian enthusiasts can go horseback riding through peaceful forest trails, along powdery beaches and even into the ocean to take their steed for a swim. The resort’s stable is home to five South African Boerperds – renowned for their kind temperament and hardiness. Riding lessons are provided by the experienced Stable Manager, and a variety of scenic routes cater for novice and capable riders.
The spectacular dunes of Bazaruto Island are the highest in the archipelago. Thrill seekers clamber up the towering works of art to go sand boarding down at exhilarating speed. As this activity requires very little skill, it is suitable for every age, and the coastal panoramas from the crests are jaw-dropping.
Uncovering the island’s most picturesque havens and colorful local life, 4×4 safaris encounter a wealth of exotic flora and fauna, traditional village customs, a 19th century lighthouse and secluded highlights such as stunning Sailfish Bay on the pristine eastern shore. From one utopia to another, a boat trip to aptly named Paradise Island wows with superb snorkelling, relaxed sunbathing without a soul in sight, and extends the pleasures with a leisurely BBQ picnic.
Remarkable ocean adventures, above and below
One of Mozambique’s best kept secrets, Bazaruto Marine National Park is one of the world’s premier snorkelling and diving destinations. The crystal-clear waters in this part of the Indian Ocean are alive with dazzling soft coral ridges and thousands of tropical fish species, as well as five kinds of dolphin, humpback whales, hammerhead, whale and Zambezi sharks, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles, and most elusive of all, the largest dugong population on the African east coast. Providing ideal conditions for investigating this enthralling underwater world, water temperatures seldom drop below 24 degrees Celsius. Catering for first time divers and seasoned enthusiasts, Anantara Bazaruto offers PADI scuba diving courses from Open Water to Dive Master, along with a range of impressive dive site excursions.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is also one of the world’s top deep sea fishing destinations. Protected by National Park status since 1971, the archipelago has a strong conservation policy of tag and release that ensures sustainability, and many a prize catch. Anantara Bazaruto has won the prize for the most tagged fish of all commercial charter operations on the Southern African east coast. Avid anglers reel for joy at the abundance of big game species. Skills are tested against large wahoo, kingfish, barracuda, bonito and yellowfin tuna, king and queen mackerel, dourado and mahy-mahy. The archipelago is also Africa’s most productive area for black, blue and striped marlin, with black marlin catches coming in at a staggering 1,000 pounds.
The waters around Bazaruto Island are a sparkling playground for all. High speed water sport thrills include water skiing, knee and wake boarding, donut and banana boat rides. Ocean serenity has a gentler pace with kayaking or stand up paddle boards. Boat trips set out in search of dolphins, turtles and shy dugongs, as well as humpback whales from July to September. Glorious days give way to hypnotic sunsets, and the most romantic way to admire the magnificent tapestry is to sail towards the horizon aboard a traditional dhow boat.
Ensuring paradise is preserved for future generations, Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort proudly takes care of its precious marine environment through a sustainable coral gardening initiative that is the first project of its kind, in co-operation with the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park.
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