The Bazaruto Archipelago is a stunning cluster of islands off the coast of Mozambique. With crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, it’s a popular destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and sea. Here are two outdoor activities, two must-see places, and one unusual tip to help you make the most of your visit to the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Outdoor activities
The Bazaruto Archipelago offers a range of outdoor activities for travelers of all interests and abilities. From snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking and horseback riding, there's something for everyone.
Scuba Diving
The Bazaruto Archipelago boasts exceptional scuba diving opportunities, attracting divers with its rich and varied marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and dugongs. Numerous dive sites, each featuring a distinct ecosystem and topography, await exploration. Two of the most sought-after sites are Two Mile Reef and Manta Reef. Catering to novice divers, Two Mile Reef is a shallow location, while Manta Reef, a deeper site, teems with schools of manta rays. Regardless of your diving experience, exploring the underwater wonders of the Bazaruto Archipelago promises an unforgettable adventure.
Horseback Riding
Another fantastic option is experiencing the Bazaruto Archipelago’s stunning natural beauty on horseback. Horseback riding tours are accessible on various islands, including Benguerra Island and Vilanculos. These tours let you delve into the islands’ interiors and traverse their unspoiled beaches. Along the way, you might even spot some of the archipelago’s wildlife, like antelope and flamingos. Suitable for riders of all skill levels, horseback riding tours provide a one-of-a-kind perspective on the archipelago’s captivating landscape.
Must See Places
The Bazaruto Archipelago is home to a variety of unique and beautiful places that are worth visiting. From pristine beaches to historic shipwrecks, there's no shortage of sights to see.
Bazaruto Island
Bazaruto Island, the archipelago’s largest island, is an essential stop for any visitor. Known for its picturesque beaches and towering sand dunes, the island offers various activities to enjoy. Dune boarding is a popular choice, allowing thrill-seekers to slide down the dunes on a sandboard. Additionally, Bazaruto Island boasts several luxury resorts where you can unwind and fully appreciate the island’s stunning natural surroundings.
Santa Carolina Island
Santa Carolina Island, affectionately called Paradise Island, is a charming little island near Vilanculos’ coast. Despite its modest size, it draws visitors for day trips and picnics. The island boasts unspoiled beaches and teems with marine life, making snorkeling and diving popular pastimes, as explorers can spot various fish, coral, and other marine species. With an array of vibrant birds residing on the island, it’s also an excellent location for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Unusual Tip
While there are plenty of well-known attractions in the Bazaruto Archipelago, there are also some hidden gems that are worth seeking out. In this section, we'll share one unusual tip that you won't find in most travel guides.
Dugong Sanctuary
The Bazaruto Archipelago hosts a population of dugongs, sizable marine mammals closely related to manatees. These gentle creatures play a vital role in the archipelago’s ecosystem, and the Dugong Sanctuary on Bazaruto Island allows visitors to learn more about them. Operated by a local nonprofit organization, the sanctuary provides guided tours that educate guests on dugongs’ behavior, habitat, and conservation status. By visiting the sanctuary, you’ll gain fascinating insights into these animals while also supporting local conservation initiatives that work to protect them.
Hidden Wonders
Both of these places offer a unique perspective on Bazaruto Archipelago and are definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in marine life.
Pansy Island
Pansy Island is a small, uninhabited island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. It’s known for its unique and beautiful pansy shells, which are shaped like five-pointed stars. The island is only accessible during low tide, and visitors must navigate the shallow waters to reach it. Once there, you can search for pansy shells on the island’s beaches or simply enjoy the peaceful, pristine surroundings.
The Portuguese Shipwreck
The Portuguese Shipwreck is a haunting reminder of the area’s history. The ship, which is believed to have sunk in the late 19th century, lies just off the coast of Bazaruto Island. Its rusted hull is visible from the shore, and visitors can snorkel or dive to explore the wreckage up close. The ship is now home to a variety of marine life, including schools of colorful fish and octopuses. Seeing this piece of history underwater is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Accommodation Suggestions
Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly accommodations, the Bazaruto Archipelago has plenty of options to choose from. In this section, we'll cover four different accommodations to suit a range of budgets and preferences.
Luxury:
Azura Benguerra Island is a luxurious beachfront resort located on Benguerra Island. The resort offers 20 spacious villas, each with its own private pool and beach access. The villas are beautifully appointed with traditional Mozambican decor and modern amenities, including air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The resort also has a spa, a restaurant that serves locally-sourced seafood and other dishes, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Mid-range:
Casa Rex Boutique Hotel is a charming hotel located in the town of Vilanculos on the mainland. The hotel offers 15 comfortable rooms, each with air conditioning and a private balcony or terrace. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a swimming pool and a spa. Casa Rex Boutique Hotel is a great option for travelers who want to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago but prefer to stay on the mainland.
Budget-friendly:
Baobab Beach is a budget-friendly option located on the southern end of Vilanculos. The property offers a variety of accommodations, including standard rooms, self-catering apartments, and budget dormitory rooms. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the property has a swimming pool, a restaurant and bar, and a tour desk that can arrange activities and excursions.
Unique:
Dugong Beach Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge located on the coast of the mainland, overlooking the Bazaruto Archipelago. The lodge offers 14 spacious chalets, each with air conditioning, a private deck, and beach access. The lodge is committed to sustainability and conservation, and offers a range of eco-friendly activities, such as beach clean-ups and marine conservation talks. The lodge also has a restaurant and bar, a swimming pool, and a spa.
In conclusion, the Bazaruto Archipelago is a true Mozambican treasure, offering visitors a stunning experience of sun, sand, and sea. With its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and diverse marine life, the archipelago is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. A variety of activities awaits, such as scuba diving, horseback riding, and exploring must-see destinations like Bazaruto Island and Santa Carolina Island. Additionally, hidden gems like the Dugong Sanctuary, Pansy Island, and the Portuguese Shipwreck provide a unique perspective on the archipelago. With accommodation options ranging from luxurious resorts like Azura Benguerra Island to more budget-friendly choices, the Bazaruto Archipelago caters to all tastes and budgets. This unforgettable destination deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.
