The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of six islands off the coast of Vilanculos in Mozambique’s Inhambane Province. Often considered the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, it is the most popular tourist area in Mozambique.
The two main islands in the Archipelago are Bazaruto and Benguerra Islands. Magaruque Island and Santa Carolina are much smaller. And Bangue Island; in the far south; is little more than a sandbar. A sixth tiny satellite island; which at high tide gets completely submerged is called Pansy (or Shell Island).
The white sandy beaches and the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean; are home to dolphins, whales, manta rays, and turtles. Plus the endangered dugong. Unspoiled coral reefs provide underwater enthusiasts with first rate diving and snorkeling.
Between August and October; Humpback whales can be seen. Whale sharks between April and July. While dolphins are seen frequently. Leatherback, loggerhead, and green turtles are often seen in the water. They come ashore to lay their eggs on Bazaruto’s sandy beaches. You may also be lucky enough to see a rare dugong. Part of the largest viable breeding population in the western Indian Ocean.
Vilanculos is a bustling village with many quaint restaurants serving the finest seafood. There is also a fresh produce market and several small shops. Vilanculos is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique.
It is a popular destination with its own beautiful beaches and attractions plus a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy the spectacle of the turquoise warm Indian Ocean waters. While relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, fishing, and of course scuba diving. Other day trips from Vilanculos include horse safaris or beach rides and traditional dhow trips.
Many people who want to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago stay in Vilanculos. It is far more affordable and most of the activities available in the archipelago; are also available from Vilanculos.
Nyati Island is located further south of Vilanculos on the San Sebastian Peninsula, in the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a small sandy isthmus that separates the Indian Ocean from the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Bazaruto Island
The largest island in the Archipelago; Bazaruto is about 37km (23 miles) long and about 7km (4 miles) wide. On the northern tip of the island; there is a 19th century lighthouse; that was built by the Portuguese. The interior of the island contains large freshwater lakes. Which are frequented by flamingos and a wide variety of other water birds. Enormous sand dunes on the eastern coast make for exhilarating dune boarding for the entire family. Horse riding in the forests or dunes on the island is truly memorable. Or a breathtaking beach ride; where you can canter along the beautiful white sandy shores.
Bazaruto Archipelago – Benguerra Island
Benguerra Island
Benguerra is the second largest island and is less than half a mile (1km) south of Bazaruto. Just like Bazaruto, it has stunning beaches, large sand dunes, and freshwater lakes. Its small indigenous forest and wetland areas attract a huge variety of birds and animals. The surrounding reefs offer some of the best diving and snorkeling.
The best time to visit the Bazaruto Archipelago
The best time to visit the Bazaruto Archipelago is between May and September. This is because the temperatures are slightly lower and; when there is the least amount of rainfall. January and February are cyclone seasons, and the weather can be very destructive at this time.
Access to the islands is via Vilanculos. Thereafter; transfers to the islands are either by light aircraft, helicopter, or boat. Combining a few days on safari in the Kruger National Park, and a few days in the Bazaruto Archipelago; is very popular.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is most famous for 2 activities; namely diving and big game fishing.
Diving
A range of exciting dives can be experienced here with reef fish such as snapper and surgeon. As well as potato bass, kingfish, barracuda, manta rays, and reef sharks.
Scuba diving at andBeyond Benguerra
The Bazaruto Archipelago’s superb scuba diving locations include:
Brindle Bass Ridge (North Point) – large reef (18 meters) with impressive concentrations of snappers, angelfish, rubber lips, brindle bass & reef sharks.
Potholes (North Point) – series of shallow potholes (12 meters) often sheltering black-tail reef sharks.
Manta Ray Reef (North Point) – flat reef (15 meters) with spectacular concentrations of anemones and clownfish.
Rainbow Runner Reef (North Point) – (25 meters) with impressive accumulations of green tree, and whips corals.
Turtle Ridge (North Point) – narrow ridge (14 meters) frequented by turtles and game fish such as barracuda.
Two Mile Reef – To the east of Benguerra (2 miles). Well known for excellent snorkeling inside the reef and its protected pool; known as the Aquarium. And for exciting dives on the outside (6-21 meters). This underwater paradise with beautiful corals and a wealth of tropical fish is popular with both divers and snorkelers.
Zenguelema Point – this dive site with a depth of 21m; is on the western side of the island. It is home to schools of Reef Fish, Scorpion Fish, Crocodile Fish, and the occasional Stone Fish.
Fishing
The Bazaruto Archipelago offers some of the most spectacular big game fishing in the world. Species such as Kingfish, Queenfish, Barracuda, Mackerel, and Yellowfin tuna. Plus the most prized Giant Black Marlin; makes this area a world renowned fishing destination.
Accommodation offered on Bazaruto and Benguerra is luxurious and the resorts offer all types of water sports. Vilanculos offers slightly cheaper accommodation. These are some of the hotels and resorts in the Bazaruto Archipelago and Vilanculos. Click on the blue dropdown box.
We can package any resort in Mozambique for you (even if not here), so please do get in touch.
Bazaruto Archipelago and Vilanculos Accommodation ↓
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort is one of the most beautiful Mozambique Resorts inside Bazaruto National Park; off the coast of southern Mozambique. This idyllic tropical island paradise is surrounded by palm trees, white sand, and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
