Beach Holidays to Bazaruto Archipelago

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a group of 6 islands off the coast of southern Mozambique. They lie within Bazaruto National Park and are known for their white-sand beaches. Bazaruto, with sand dunes, is the largest island. Coral reefs around Magaruque and Santa Carolina islands protect rare marine animals, like dugongs. The wetlands, forests, and grasslands of Benguerra Island’s interior are home to many bird species.

There’s nothing quite like the Bazaruto Archipelago. A speckling of elongated isles in the Indian Ocean, they are a patchwork of shimmering, aquamarine seas and coral gardens, windblown sand dunes, and ochre-hued coastal hills that come peppered with scrub and swaying coconut palm groves.

The largest island of the area (called, simply, just Bazaruto) is a place of open sandy bays patrolled by galumphing dugong, while the inland is carved through by karst hills and boulder stones. A little to the south and you’ll find the paradisiacal beaches of the Ilha de Benguerra, where luxurious honeymoon hotels poke above the white sands in a medley of swinging hammocks and sunning decks.

Things to do while on a beach holiday in Bazaruto Archipelago

Scuba diving & snorkeling

Bazaruto boasts some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world, with its pristine coral reefs and rich sea life. Expect to encounter turtles, dolphins (spinner, bottlenose, and humpback), as well as dugongs, and an array of other marine creatures.

Dhow safaris

Visit the Islands of Bazaruto and explore the azure waters on dhow excursions, in traditional East African sailing vessels.

Horse safaris

Enjoy horse riding on the larger islands of the archipelago, exploring the beaches and inland areas.

Game fishing

The Bazaruto Archipelago offers world-class Big Game Fishing. Mid-September to late December is the best time for Marlin fishing and April to August is best for catching sailfish. Smaller game fish, including King Mackerel, Bonito, Travelli, and Queen Mackerel can be caught at any time of the year. Bazaruto is a marine reserve, therefore a “tag and release” fishing policy is the norm.

Island Activities

Hiking to the islands, sandboarding on the dunes, and surfing along the warm shores.

Beaching

Swim in the warm Indian Ocean and lie on one of the idyllic beaches

How to get to Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique

The Bazaruto Islands are easily reached by boat or plane from the mainland of Mozambique, mostly from Vilanculos. The largest island, Bazaruto Island (meaning “island of the mist”), is just under 80km southeast of the Save River mouth in Mozambique.

Where to stay in Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique

Azura Benguerra

Azura Benguerra is very chic and romantic, with particularly good service and food. The choice of activities is wide, and its spa is top-notch!

Bazaruto Lodge

Bazaruto Lodge is a friendly and efficiently run resort that is of great value, with a laid-back, Mediterranean charm that would suit couples and families.

Benguerra Lodge

The oldest lodge in the archipelago, Benguerra has a North African feel amidst tropical gardens. It’s a peaceful destination for couples, and children’s chalets make it good-value for families.

Dugong Beach Lodge

Dugong Beach Lodge is a stylish property on a remote stretch of beach just south of Vilanculos. For the level of luxury, you get here, this is a very good value lodge albeit not actually on the Bazaruto Islands.