Bazaruto Archipelago

One of the most popular tourist areas in Mozambique is the Bazaruto Archipelago consisting of four islands – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Margaruque and Santa Carolina. They are situated just off the mainland, but 470 miles from Maputo, and are accessible by dhow from the town of Vilanculos or by private air charter. Activities on the islands revolve around every form of motorized or non-motorized water sports including water skiing, parasailing, and wind surfing. Deep sea fishing expeditions, and rock, surf and fly fishing are also on offer.

The Mozambique Channel is well known for its trophy sized marlin, kingfish and sailfish. Mako, wahoo, serra, yellowfin tunny and queenfish are also regularly caught. The archipelago’s coral reefs and clear waters are a magnet for snorkeling and scuba diving fans, where night and wreck dives are also offered. And the rugged terrain of the archipelago combined with its natural beauty, make it an ideal place for hikers. The Bazaruto Archipelago is a bird watchers paradise, with 164 different species identified. Benguerra Island alone is home to 115 different types including the rare crab plover, the olive bee eater, green coucal and narina troga. The varying habitats throughout Mozambique account for its incredible wealth of bird life with more than 900 species recorded. Marine life includes the most spectacular of marine mammals, the dugong, and several types of dolphin. Humpback whales can be seen during the summer months. Land animals include the small suni and duiker antelope, which have recently been re-introduced to the island.