Mozambique Travel Guide to Bazaruto Archipelago

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

The experience:

The idyllic islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique are known for their unspoiled beauty and diverse ecologies. The pristine coral reefs are home to more than 2000 fish species as well as whales and dolphins. Needless to say the diving and snorkelling in the Bazaruto Marine National Park is superb and sought after by many travellers. Mozambique visitors who would just like to get away from it all will find Bazaruto just the place to relax, sip cocktails and indulge in a delicious seafood beach dinner or perhaps sail away on a dhow for a castaway picnic!

There are actually 6 islands within the Bazaruto Archipelago which lie just off the mainland between Vilanculos and Inhassoro. The largest island is Bazaruto, then Benguerra, Margaruque, Santa Carolina (Paradise Island), Banque and Pansy Shell Island. Beautiful accommodation can be found on Bazaruto and Benguerra with eco lodge options and activities for children also available. The unique eco-system of the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique sustains diverse fauna and flora. Visitors exploring the islands will find huge dunes, forest and savannah, inland lakes and wetlands.

These Mozambique islands have endless stunning and deserted white beaches, swaying palms and shallow turquoise waters. The Bazaruto Archipelago is just perfect for peace, solitude and time to watch the magnificent sunsets. More active visitors to this Mozambique area can engage in an exciting array of activities – including diving some of the best sites in the world on Two Mile Reef and beyond, or kayaking and parasailing.

Visibility is excellent in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Beginners can also get into the swing of things at the dive school while more experienced divers explore depths of up to 30 metres. Snorkellers will love The Aquarium, a huge protected natural pool. The coral reefs of the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique are known for being incredibly varied and the least disturbed in this part of the Indian Ocean.

The dive sites are not crowded and spectacular marine life can be seen and even swum with. This protected area is home to whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins and whales (Hump Back) as well as the mysterious and rare Dugong. Five species of Indian Ocean turtle breed on the beaches, while offshore, sailfish and marlin living in deeper waters surrounding the park, provide spectacular game fishing opportunities.

Climate:

A warm, tropical climate with less rainfall than further south. Evenings are warm except for a few nights in June and July - very warm temperatures experienced in summer but with less humidity than the mainland.