Wild and raw, the privileged few who make it here are often the first to leave footprints on the beaches. Though the term may get overused, Blue Safari Seychelles can justifiably claim to being a rare example of true experiential travel. With conservation at the heart, the fundamental belief here is that by exploring and understanding the outer islands, we can protect and restore them. This is like the marine version of a polar expedition, only it’s gentle enough that you can take a five year old with you. For eco-warriors, here lies a unique chance to witness the daily endeavours of the most biologically varied ecosystems in the world; to dive in uncharted waters so clear you’re able to see the delicate intricacies of coral structures; and unearth endemic species found nowhere else on the planet. The sheer remoteness creates an air of curiosity so intriguing, you’d want to uncover every alcove.
Each of the four atolls has its own character and story, from the secluded and serene eco pods of Cosmoledo atoll, to the communal hub of the main lodge on Alphonse Island that puts adventurers right in the middle of the conservation action. True as any safari though, it’s the expert guides and rangers that elevate the experience from the enjoyable to the unforgettable. Their storytelling and total infatuation with the environment is contagious and infects all within ear-shot.
Diving
Flats Lunch
Tortoise conservation
Beach Villa bedroom
Beach Villa
Turtle
Paddle boarding
Pool
Island cycling
Beach Retreat bedroom
Cosmoledo Atoll
Astove Atoll
A trip of a lifetime is a tricky term to live up to, but Blue Safari Seychelles makes a very convincing proposal for the moniker. Exploration courts privacy on Alphonse Island, with guests getting the atoll all to themselves with only a passionate team of in-the-know specialists for company.
With a heavy focus on conservation (and plenty of ways to get involved), the marine safari experience itself mirrors that of its land-based counterparts. Featuring the likes of bucket-list species to spot and tales of the day over sundowners, the difference here is that you can’t snorkel alongside the animals of the Serengeti. And even when it comes to life on terra firma, the discerning aren’t left wanting with the likes of private farm-to-table dinners and on-location spa treatments.
The crux of any trip to Alphonse Island, these conservation-driven adventures on the open ocean bring visitors up close and personal with some of the Seychelles’ most adored sea life. Joined by an expert team aboard a custom-built catamaran, search for species like dolphins, whales, turtles and even rare seabirds.
Donning mask and fins, venture to the outer islands of the Seychelles to swim side by side with the largest species of ray. The conservation team (and the Manta Trust) are always monitoring numbers of the animals and guests are invited to help by spotting individuals during their dive.
A former fisherman’s resort, it makes sense that blue water fishing here is a favourite pastime. Experienced angling guides lead the way to some of the best spots to catch a variety of species, including the Giant Trevally. Then, back on land, the chef takes over to discuss how best to prepare your catch for dinner.
Long-term residents of Alphonse Island, the Aldabra giant tortoise numbers have only grown thanks to the hard work of the Island Conservation Society. Now totalling 51, ranging from adorable hatchlings to fully-fledged adults, the opportunity to join the team to help feed them is a must-do.
After a 40-minute boat journey from Alphonse spotting the likes of rays, whales and pelagic fish, the lush greenery of St. Francois Island comes into view. The wildlife here roams between white beaches and mangroves, making for a diverse cast of creatures to see from crabs and sharks to birdlife.
With plenty of atolls to explore, no two Blue Safari snorkelling excursions are the same. Whether choosing guided or independent tours around the House Reef or expertly led swims around Alphonse Channel and the Outer Reefs, the calm and warm waters cater to everyone.
From £28,900 per person for 7 nights based on a group booking of 24 people
- Business class international flights
- 2 one-bedroom beach bungalows, 5 one-bedroom beach villas and 2 four-bedroom beach retreats accommodate a minimum of 24 guests and a maximum of 66 guests*
- Return domestic flights from Mahe to Alphonse Island
- All guests welcomed on an all-inclusive basis, including all meals, snacks and drinks, and a weekly sand flats lunch
- Diving, snorkelling and watersports and equipment
- Non-motorised water sports, including sea kayaks, paddleboards and surfboards
- One bicycle per guest and weekly a cycling tour
- Excursions including a guided kayak tour, an expedition to the Alphonse Flats and a resort farm tour
- Evening conservation talks and beach cleans
- Yoga sessions around the island
- All experiences outlined above
- Payable locally: A conservation donation and the environmental levy is compulsory and applies per person per stay
- *Note: There will be additional costs if increasing guest numbers above 24
When it’s time for ‘that’ trip to become more than just a daydream, luxury knows no limits, and fantasies and budgets are boundless, where do you start? To prepare for the plunge, we’ve curated a range of getaways that are a world away from ordinary.
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