Bazaruto is a remarkably productive seascape that is connected by a chain of five picturesque islands. These extremely fertile terrestrial and marine ecosystems harbor many rare and endemic bird, reptile, and marine species, including over 2,000 fish species and iconic marine mega faunas such as whales, sharks, rays, dolphins, and turtles. The flagship species, however, is the dugong as the park is a stronghold for the last viable population within the Western Indian Ocean.

Size of Bazaruto national park Mozambique

Bazaruto national park covers an area of 1430 sq km

Location of Bazaruto national park Mozambique

The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (BANP) is a protected area in the Inhambane Province of Mozambique on the Bazaruto Archipelago

How to get to Bazaruto national park 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.

Things to do in Bazaruto national park Mozambique

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 dugong,s 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 – Go 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 on 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.

When to visit Bazaruto national park Mozambique

The best time to go to Bazaruto is from late May to September when rainfall is at its lowest and temperatures ranging between 22-30°C (71-86° F).

The rainy season is from late October to late March/early April when it’s humid and temperatures soar. January and February are the wettest months with the most cyclones, so try to avoid this period. That said, Bazaruto mostly gets afternoon showers that can offer a refreshing break from the heat.

Where to stay in Bazaruto national park

Some of the available accommodation in Bazaruto national park includes Anantara Bazaruto lodge, Anantara Bazaruto island resort, and Marimba secret garden