Luxury Islands
We have all dreamt about or imagined spending time on a tropical beach on a remote island. It is the epitome of relaxation. We think of these places being in exotic locations like the Caribbean, Bali or Tahiti. However off the African coast, there are islands and atolls that would leave you speechless with their beauty, charisma and absolute isolation. Some of these islands are in the most remote locations, but have a sense of luxury and pure relaxation that can compete with and exceed any other island getaway in the world.
Why would a safari company that specializes in privately guided, chartered and custom made safaris be writing about tropical paradises?
Because we can. And, we can can take you to them. With a private aircraft at your disposal, this is easily achieved. Picture lounging in a private villa on an atoll just off the coast of Northern Mozambique. No problem. We can make it happen. Imagine being on the safari of a lifetime where you have seen gorillas, chimpanzees, the great migration or any other experience we’ve created for you, only to be whisked off to an island paradise to reflect on what you have just experienced. It doesn’t seem possible. But it is and can be achieved. And once you’re there you can participate in any of the activities associated with island life; or simply relax and sip cocktails of your choice. What an epic way to finish off a trip of a lifetime!
With this in mind, we thought we would showcase some of the amazing islands and properties that we use. All of them are easily combined with a safari itinerary and each has its own special attraction.
A thrilling chopper flip or a scenic boat trip will get you to the island from the mainland. Located in a marine reserve, this beautiful AndBeyond property lives up to the expectations created by the rest of the lodges in the AndBeyond Group. Set among swaying palm trees, ten casinhas and two cabanas have been designed in a light and airy colour scheme that combines tropical chic with a distinct African feel while also incorporating reminders of the area’s Portuguese heritage. The island is rich in history and while taking a break from all the numerous activities, you can enjoy a tour of the island. Incredible food, tasty local beverages and fun activities make this place very special.
http://wetu.com/iBrochure/en/Home/1598_1224/andBeyond_Benguerra_Island
Unique cuisine associated with the region and island life, incorporating a bit of Portuguese flair.
Remote beaches and sand bars.
Relaxed and content.
Luxurious spaces.
Cocktails on the beach? Sure…
Exclusive yet unpretentious, AndBeyond Mnemba Island is an award-winning private beach paradise just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. Ten beachside bandas overlook a pristine coral reef (a scuba diver’s delight) at this romantic, private hideaway. From snorkeling, swimming and kayaking to massages on the beach or simply doing nothing at all, AndBeyond Mnemba has something for everyone. Watch the video below and follow the link to get a better idea of what Mnemba Island is all about.
http://wetu.com/iBrochure/en/Home/1598_14088/andBeyond_Mnemba_Island_Lodge
Once you have woken up to this view, it’s hard for anyone to go back to reality.
Mnemba Island, in its entirety.
A little luxury on your island.
Set among the Quirimbas Archipelago, in a marine conservation area off the coast of northern Mozambique, lies the idyllic coral island of AndBeyond Vamizi. It is blessed with a tropical climate and offers immaculate powder-soft beaches that rival those of the Maldives. Perfect for families or groups, six luxurious villas beckon to guests with their individually decorated interiors to offer you a private slice of paradise. Each villa is as special and unique as another. And the luxury and service you’ll receive is only rivaled by the beauty and remoteness of the island’s location. If you are interested in fishing, diving or snorkel, these are virgin waters. You can swim from your deck and see a myriad of species that you would otherwise need to go diving for. This is a destination to be explored at your own pace.
Follow the link below for a full breakdown of the amazing island.
http://wetu.com/iBrochure/en/Home/1598_72686/andBeyond_Vamizi_Island
Unique villas with individual design.
The sound of the ocean while you sleep, massaged by a gentle sea breeze.
Pool side reading with a Mojito?
An aerial view of the remote island.
A little canoe or stand up paddle boarding, starting form your villa.
Azura Quilalea is a hidden gem. A placeto retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, with a relaxed and understated ‘Robinson Crusoe’ castaway style that belies the comforts and experiences on offer in the 9 handcrafted seafront villas. A wholly uninhabited island paradise that ensures the total privacy and exclusivity of guests while also being surrounded by the magnificent pristine waters of a marine sanctuary.
Azura Quilalea is located in the pristine Quirimbas Archipelago – a scattering of beautiful unspoilt islands in remote Northern Mozambique. It’s an absolute utopia for lovers of marine life. Mozambique offers superb snorkeling, excellent fishing and world class scuba diving opportunities. Back on the island, guests may be lucky enough to watch pods of dolphins cruise past their sun deck or observe humpback whales frolicking in the sea or even spot some of the nesting turtles in season.
Culture buffs may enjoy visiting nearby Ibo Island, where time has stood still, and the silversmiths still make jewellery the old traditional way. More relaxing activities include kayaking through the mangroves on nearby Sencar Island, a nature walk, spotting one of the 182 species of birds, or a massage at the cliff-top spa.
Click below to emmerse yourself in the video of this picturesque paradise.
http://wetu.com/iBrochure/en/Home/1598_14802/Azura_Quilalea_Private_Island
A room right on the ocean. Your playground on your doorstep.
Open, spacious and luxurious.
Incredible seafood cuisine.
Azura Qulilálea. Your island…
Finally, North Island is a place of barefoot luxury for those seeking an unspoilt, spectacular tropical retreat. There are only 11 individually handcrafted guest villas on the entire island, each constructed to create a sensorial experience in surroundings of understated elegance and providing a unique atmosphere and distinct flavour of the Seychelles.
A lounge, dining room and library, scenically located health spa and gym, world-class dive centre, and a rim-flow swimming pool are all built into a granitic outcrop. A sunset bar and restaurant are tucked away on the western beach of the island. Activities include biking, gym, guided walks, snorkelling, fishing, boating, sea kayaking, and scuba diving. North Island has created a signature style that combines natural beauty with sheer luxury, a rare experience in harmony with the environment.
Watch the video below to see for yourself what North Island has to offer.
http://wetu.com/iBrochure/en/Home/1598_14205/North_Island
A nesting ground for one of the ocean’s wanderers.
One of the most luxurious rooms you could possibly imagine.
A sunset cocktail with a pristine background.
Hmmm… a romantic excursion for two?
A relaxed giant cruising past an extremely lucky diver.
Whichever destination or island that you choose, they all have something unique about them. What they do have in common though, is the effect that they have on you. Complete and utter relaxation. The perfect way to end an African Safari – Safari Architects style.
Chris
Photographs and videos courtesy of Wetu and the lodges featured