Bazaruto Archipelago
The Bazaruto Archipelago has 4 main islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, and Santa Carolina. A marine national park covers most of the archipelago, protecting the marine life in the azure seas. Incredible opportunities for diving and snorkelling surround these largely uninhabited islands.
The Bazaruto Archipelago Highlights
The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of 4 main islands, namely Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, and Santa Carolina. The Archipelago is a protected National Park and is home to 180 species of bird and other endemic wildlife and smaller species. Only 2 of the islands are inhabited, and very rurally at that.
The waters here are protected and house an abundance of pristine wildlife, including dolphin, game fish, giant lobster and a variety of marine turtle. Many years ago, Bazaruto Island, Benguerra Island and Magaruque Island formed part of the mainland, however separated millions of years ago as the continent shifted.
The marine life and coral reefs offer some of the best snorkelling and diving experiences anywhere in the world. The Bazaruto Archipelago also offers visitors a cultural experience, as traditional fishermen and their families reside in the area. A visit here offers insight to their way of life and survival skills.
This beach island paradise offers excellent bird watching, superb diving and snorkeling as well as excellent fishing, providing activities for everyone.
Dive sites are uncrowded and marine life is varied and abundant, with sites at a depth of 12 to 30m and visibility up to 40m. Some of the resorts and lodges offer scuba diving training.
The protected reefs are teeming with dolphin, hump back whales, whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles. The pristine condition of these waters have given it its nickname, the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean'.
The east coast of the islands is world renowned for big game fishing. Fishermen from all over the world congregate along the Mozambique Channel to enjoy big game fishing.
Azura is situated on the beautiful Benguerra Island in Mozambique. It is regarded as one of the trendiest beach destinations on the continent and offers an exclusive island experience.
Marlin Lodge offers a different view of Benguerua Island; guests can enjoy scenic island drives accompanied by friendly and experienced guides, learn about the history and culture of the daily life of local fishermen on the island and even visit a local village.
Dugong Beach Lodge is situated in the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary on the East coast of Mozambique. The lodge offers luxurious accommodation with modern facilities and all rooms offer sea views and private viewing decks.
Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa is the classic tropical island paradise surrounded by palm trees, white sand and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
How to Get there
Most flights into Mozambique land in the largest and capital city, Maputo. Maputo International Airport receives regular flights from South Africa, however, should guests be adding Mozambique as a destination after an East Africa safari, there are private charter flights available from Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Nairobi in Kenya.
There are also direct flights from South Africa to the Bazaruto Archipelago in the centre of Mozambique and the Quirimbas Archipelago in the far north. Sun Safaris will arrange whichever flights into the country best suit guests' itineraries.
Self-driving from South Africa to Mozambique is an option and is often an option for local holiday-makers. The road from Johannesburg, via Nelspruit, to Mozambique is in good condition and well-tarred. Should guests be flying to their destination, Sun Safaris will arrange for light air or road transfers from Maputo to booked accommodation.
Bazaruto Archipelago Activities
The Bazaruto Archipelago offers a haven for marine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The islands offer an enormous variety of water and land activities. The area boasts beautiful untouched and protected coral reefs offering spectacular diving and snorkelling opportunities. Most lodges offer the necessary equipment required for diving and some also offer the PADI course if needed.
Fishing is a huge attraction in these waters and fishermen enjoy big game fishing here; the area ensures anglers one of the most sophisticated angling experiences in the archipelago. Catamaran trips are also popular; day trips on the catamaran will take guests to islands in and around the archipelago. The birdlife is fantastic, which appeals to ornithologists everywhere.
Wind-surfing, knee-boarding, ocean-ski paddling and hobie cat sailing are also available. Island walks or drives can also be booked. Activities vary at the different lodges, from day trips to Pansy Island to romantic picnics in secluded spots. There truly is something for everyone.
