Immerse in Mozambique
tropical paradise
that offers a unique blend ofrich history, vibrant culture, & breathtaking natural beauty
. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs, Mozambique is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. From the bustling streets of Maputo to theidyllic archipelagos
of Bazaruto and Quirimbas, Mozambique is a treasure trove of exciting experiences waiting to be discovered.Benguerra Island
Area Overview
Mozambique beckons with its coastline and swaying palms, its traditions, its cultures, its vibe and its opportunities for adventure.
The unspoilt island of Benguerra is the second largest island of five that make up the Bazaruto Archipelago.
It is approximately 11km by 5.5 km and lies some 14 km north east of Vilanculos. The island is famous for white beaches that extend for miles, remarkable dive sites, and excellent fishing.




Bazaruto Archipelago
Area Overview
Covering 1,320 km2 (510 mi2), the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago sit inside a stunning marine environment that provides unique aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
The four main islands are formed of pale, sloping sand beaches that dip gently into exquisite azure coloured waters.
Swim with dolphins, experience the annual migration of humpback whales, sail on traditional dhows, dive impressive coral walls, snorkel and try to spot endangered Dugongs. This pristine national park is an aquatic wonderland and the Robinson Crusoe-esque islands are some of the most picturesque in the Indian Ocean, rivaling those of the Seychelles
and Mauritius.




Vilanculos
Area Overview
Named after a local tribal chief, Gamelo Vilankuo Makeke, this small seaside town is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and easily accessible from Maputo and even via some direct international flights.
There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and places to stay in town, some with exquisite sea views and many offering traditional Mozambican cuisine. The area offers great fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving, especially as you head closer to the archipelago.




Bazaruto National Park
Area Overview
The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is the first marine reserve to fall under African Parks’ management.
In 2017, the National Administration of Conservation Areas (ANAC) invited African Parks to manage its oldest national marine park, giving us the opportunity to protect this gem in the Indian Ocean. Declared a protected area in 1971, Bazaruto is made up of five islands, three of which are inhabited by over 6,500 people. The archipelago boasts iconic megafauna, including whales, sharks, sailfish, manta rays, dolphins, marlin and nesting marine turtles, as well as the region’s last viable population of dugong. The sheer beauty of this seascape, along with the diversity of wildlife, has made Bazaruto a globally sought-after tourism destination.
Historically, overuse of natural resources, illegal fishing practices and poorly regulated tourism activities have negatively impacted the area’s biodiversity and the livelihoods of those who live here. But over the last five years, the results of effective management have begun to crystallise and relationships with communities, tourism operators and government partners are helping to secure a more sustainable future for people and wildlife.
The park’s management team has grown, infrastructure has improved, protection measures have been enhanced and illegal activities curtailed. A conservation-led economy is being bolstered through tourism, creating jobs and skills development.




Preserving the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
Bazaruto is truly an emerging gem of the Indian Ocean and testimony to how an effective co-management agreement has lasting results for both people and the marine ecosystems on which they depend.
Highlights
- Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is home to the largest dugong population on the eastern coast of Africa. Thanks to work of African Parks researchers and others, the dugong was relisted from ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List to ‘Critically Endangered’ in 2022 giving the species the highest level of global protection.
- With regular patrolling, improved capacity and collaboration with the Maritime Authority and the local police, Bazaruto rangers have helped curb illegal activities in the park. As a result, dugong deaths caused by fishing nets have almost completely stopped.
- In just five years, park-related jobs and socio-economic initiatives are improving the livelihoods of thousands of people and nurturing a growing constituency for conservation as communities realise the benefits of protecting biodiversity.
- Over 360 schoolchildren were provided school learning materials and uniforms in 2022.
- A detailed code of conduct has been developed for wildlife viewing, snorkelling and scuba-diving and approximately 100 boat skippers from the tourism sector have been trained on various aspects of best practices to limit negative effects on the environment.