Bazaruto Archipelago: What you Need to Know
As the ‘beach’ part of a beach-and bush holiday, Mozambique’s Indian Ocean coast lies a conveniently short flight away from the Kruger Park and not much further from Johannesburg International. But the Mozambique coast is 2700 kms (1700 miles) long which begs the question of where to go, especially as the choice of beach destinations in Mozambique is far greater than it used to be.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is one of Africa’s most breathtaking island destinations—a true paradise in the Indian Ocean. Located just off the coast of Vilanculos, this chain of five idyllic islands is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and incredible marine life. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury island escape, an unforgettable diving adventure, or a peaceful Mozambique beach holiday, Bazaruto offers it all.
HOW TO GET THERE
Just a flight away: Vilanculos, Mozambique, the gateway to Bazaruto’s island magic.
A beach holiday in Bazaruto Archipelago is best enjoyed in combination with an African big game safari. Naturally, there’s plenty of choice for wildlife watching, including within Mozambique itself – witness the recovery of Gorongosa National Park. But the archipelago, Benguerra Island in particular, is very easy to combine with South Africa’s Kruger National Park and its private Sabi Sands Reserve: you fly directly to Vilanculos from the Kruger’s international airport at Nelspruit, followed by a scenic helicopter flight to the island.
Or perhaps you want a malaria-free Big Five safari? Now you choose the Waterberg Biosphere close to Johannesburg and there’s a direct flight from the city straight to Vilanculos. In fact, there’s even a direct flight to Vilanculos from ever-popular Cape Town – adding the Cape’s famous experiences on your holiday: whale-watching, wine tasting and penguins.
WHERE TO STAY
Barefoot luxury with endless ocean views.
Bazaruto Archipelago accommodation focuses on luxury and romance – cue the couples and honeymooners – but also suitable for families with children and have a range of appropriate activities to prove it. Either way you’re going to get the facilities of a classic beach resort – swimming pool, loungers on the beach, water sports – but not all of them will have spa therapies.
Where time drifts as slowly as the dhow on the horizon; Benguerra Island bliss.
This is a destination that is home to some of the world’s most elusive big mammals – the aquatic dugong, the humpback whale – as well as the marine world’s biggest fish: manta ray and whale shark.
WHAT TO DO
Floating between sea and sky; the art of doing nothing, perfectly
Nothing, if you’d like. There’s plenty of opportunity to laze around by the pool or snooze in a hammock. But, of course, there’s even more opportunity to do as much as you’d like: The Archipelago is water-sport heaven and most resorts offer free equipment for non-motorised activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Book at the lodge for activities like scuba diving, seahorse safaris and sailing dhows at sunset.
Set sail on a traditional dhow: the most enchanting way to explore Mozambique’s turquoise coast.
The cuisine revolves around seafood and vegetables and Mozambicans like it hot – go easy on the peri-peri here (the local chilli); why not get up early and watch the fishermen return with their catch for the market – and ultimately your plate that evening.
WHEN TO GO
Saddle up for an unforgettable island adventure.
The climate keeps in step with that of the safari destinations: a dry winter (May to October) and a wet summer (November through April). Choose the month carefully and you may have blue sky throughout your holiday.
Temperatures are mild over the first half of winter but hot in the second (September and October). It’s warm to hot throughout the summer season and while you may be tempted by a Green Season safari (as summer safaris are aptly named) in the Kruger or Botswana, it’s worth remembering that Mozambique is well-known for its heavy summer rains and regular cyclones. Bottom line? Go during the long dry winter season – it’s ideal for wildlife viewing as well.
