At a glance

Picture yourself walking along the shores of immaculate, warm, crystal blue waters flowing back and forth across pure white sand as it comfortably cushions your bare feet with every step.

Hear the calming murmur of wind blowing through palm trees and feel the rays of the tropic sun set beneath the distant horizon.

Now stop romanticizing, because this beauty is what awaits you if you decide to visit the Pearl of the Indian Ocean; formally known as the Bazaruto Archipelago. Comprising of six islands, the archipelago is one of Mozambique’s marine protected national parks.

A truly remarkable destination with world renowned coral reefs; boasting 600 species of fish and the largest and possibly only viable dugong population left on the East African coast. Popular attractions include surfing, snorkeling and diving with dolphins, turtles and other marine life. The keys to the majestic oasis is kept on the shores of Vilanculos, and one need only to sail across the waters in a traditional Arab dhow to explore the Bazaruto Island. Vilanculos is a rural but pictorial town bustling with the atmosphere of local street markets. Here you can collect your souvenirs and memorabilia, including hand crafted wooden sculptures and colourful basketry.

The best season to visit

Bazaruto has a wet season from October to March and the dry season during the months of April to September.

Precipitation is between 500 to 900 mm (19.7 to 35.4 in); with an average annual rainfall of 590 mm (23.2 in). Expect average temperatures of 13 to 24 °C (55.4 to 75.2 °F) in July and 22 to 31 °C (71.6 to 87.8 °F) in February.

Advice from Safari Russ:

“We call it the gateway to paradise. If there was one destination in Mozambique to experience the warm tropical and unspoilt beach locations, definitely consider combining this with your African Safari.”