Island Hopping by Speedboat
Welcome aboard Azura’s signature activity - a short hop to Bazaruto Island to hike up Bazaruto Dune for unsurpassed 360 degree panoramic views of the Archipelago. From here we often head to Two Mile Reef where there are hundreds of species of tropical fish, coral, rays, invertebrates, as well as the possibility of seeing various species of turtle, or humpback whales during their annual migration. Sightings of dolphin are common and if you are lucky, the highly endangered gentle giants, the dugong, may make an appearance too. After snorkelling, arrive at North Point for a tantalising picnic, and swim in the cool clear waters.
Paradise Island by Speedboat
Depart Azura by speedboat for the 1 hour trip to Paradise Island in the far north of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Look out for dolphins and dugongs on the way. This island is home to a ruined hotel from the days of Portuguese rule, and was named Paradise Island for its beautiful white beaches and fantastic snorkelling. The ruins of the old hotel and church are fascinating. Then settle down on deserted white beaches for a picnic lunch. Relax for a few hours here, the snorkelling is amazing, and very different to the reefs closer to Azura.
Deep Sea Fishing
The Bazaruto Archipelago has some of the best big game, reef and bill fishing in the Indian Ocean. Species include: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna/Bonito, King/Queen Mackerel, Prodigal Son, Wahoo, Dorado, and Barracuda. Giant Trevally (GT’s) often top the scales above 25kg. Azura caters for beginner and experienced fishermen/woman alike, and operates a strict tag and release policy on protected species. You can choose to go trolling, popping or jigging with one of Azura’s guides, or with an independent guide who offers fly fishing, jigging and popping. Fishing is extremely popular and should be booked well in advance.
Scuba Diving
Our marine life and corals are often cited as the best off the East Coast of Africa. We have seasonal visits from whale sharks, manta rays and humpback whales and their calves, and we regularly see loggerhead, green and hawksbill turtles, reef sharks, stingrays, devil rays and moray eels as well as a variety of reef fish such as grouper, bat fish, surgeons, puffers, moorish idols, parrot fish, clown fish, trigger fish and chocolate dip fish. Hard and soft corals are in abundance, with Christmas tree anemones and nudibranchs for those who like to spot the smaller stuff!
PADI 5 Star Dive Centre
Azura has a PADI 5 Star Dive Centre with top of the range Scubapro equipment. Our training pool is perfect for refreshing your diving skills or even trying out snorkelling before you head off to the reefs. The Bazaruto Archipelago offers a range of depths and reef topography to suit beginner and experienced divers alike. For training we offer a full range of courses and have a PADI Instructor. We highly recommend that you complete the theory portion of your course at home, before your holiday. That way, you’re ready to start diving as soon as you arrive and will get to spend more time exploring the waters around the island. Azura is also a DAN (Diver’s Alert Network) Business Member which entitles all divers doing entry level courses to basic dive insurance coverage.
Every Day is Different Dining
At Azura, dining is all part of the experience, from breakfast at the Portuguese restaurant to lunch by the pool and dinner on a candle lit beach beneath a blanket of stars. We offer numerous experiences on the Island and beyond including spectacular picnics on deserted sandbars. For a more special occasion splurge on a private candle-lit beach dinner with a loved one.
Other Experiences
Experience a sunset dhow cruise, or have one of our guides lead you on a dune climb. Island hop and visit Pansy Island for lunch, or be dropped on the sandpit at Benguerra North point with a picnic lunch. Alternatively take to the water for a guided snorkeling safari, or go out whale watching in season. All activities are subject to weather and tidal conditions as well as boat, Land Rover and guide availability.
Children & Teens
Children and teens at Azura will be spoilt for choice when it comes to spending time here with us. We offer a host of activities for kiddies to participate in, supervised by Azura’s guides, hosts and activity coordinators. Children can enjoy seeing interesting marine life above and below the water, search for pansy shells on an island that appears at low tide, experience cultural encounters, climb dunes, look for crocodiles (from a safe distance), taste the island’s fruits and learn a new skill or two.
Please note: All activities are subject to weather, tides, staff/boat availability and local regulations.