“In a November 6th article on CNN.com, (http://www.cnn.com/2014/11/05/travel/africa-a-sanctuary-for-chill-seekers/index.html?hpt=hp_c4) the founder of Good Safari Magazine revealed that underwater Safaris will be a trend in 2015. Travelers can take advantage of the trendy marine safari as well as combine it with a traditional safari combo at eco-friendly, Azura retreats. With two established properties in Mozambique and a brand new safari property in Southern Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve underwater safaris and traditional safaris are within reach!
Azura's underwater safari preceded the shifting tide of Safari travel, as Quilalea was completely refurbished and taken over by Azura in 2011 . Situated within the only fully protected region of the Quirimbas Archipelago, Azura Quilalea is a Mozambican island resort boasting one house reef, plus 17 other amazing dive sites in the surrounding waters of the Indian Ocean. An on-site, certified PADI dive instructor certifies this destination as underwater safari compatible. The instructor assists little ones or beginning divers in the training pool on the bar deck. Meanwhile, more experienced divers can take the plunge on their own off the main beach beneath the inky blank cover of night, with only twinkling stars as companions. At Azura Quilalea, adventurous travelers can enjoy the challenge of underwater walls and drop offs and countless colorful coral gardens will enchant the casual, sightseeing diver.
For those who enjoy marine wildlife but prefer not to go diving, from July to November humpback whales migrate through the region. In addition, pods of dolphins provide year-round company in front of guests’ seafront villas. Quilalea’s helpful staff can also arrange a Turtle Beach picnic trip, where from November through April female turtles lay eggs on the beach. Kayaking through extensive mangroves on nearby Sencar Island, sailing on traditional Mozambican dhows, plus some fantastic deep sea fishing result in one intense marine safari experience courtesy of Azura.
A hop skip and jump away from this Eco-Boutique Retreat lies Azura Selous, the first luxury safari property in the remote Southern Tanzania. Since June, 2014, Azura Selous has been providing travelers to this remote region with a previously unavailable level of luxury service and amenities. One of Africa's most hidden gems, the Selous is a totally protected reserve nearly the size of Switzerland and three times the size of the Serengeti. This vast expanse is home to only a few other lodges, so Azura’s guests can expect only staff and resident hippos of the Ruaha River rapids as company. Exclusive game viewing for adults and young adults is a given, and tiny explorers will search for and discover animal footprints on site, led by qualified staff.
At both Azura Quilalea, and Azura Selous there are varied experiences for lovers of both land and sea wildlife. From the experienced traveler to children too young to go on game drives, guests are provided for with a wide range of animal-focused activities at Azura's various properties. For more information visit http://www.azura-retreats.com/”
