Destinations / Mozambique / Bazaruto Archipelago
Bazaruto Archipelago
Barefoot Luxury in the Indian Ocean
Just off Mozambique's coast, the Bazaruto Archipelago is a protected marine paradise of towering white sand dunes, turquoise sandbanks and coral reefs. Dolphins, turtles and rare dugongs swim in its warm waters, and a handful of exclusive island lodges make it the perfect place to end a safari.
Islands of Sand & Sea
A Marine National Park
The archipelago is a protected national park, sheltering coral reefs, seagrass beds and one of the western Indian Ocean's last viable populations of dugong.
Dunes & Sandbanks
Giant sand dunes rise above shimmering lagoons, while sandbanks appear and vanish with the tide.
Island Seclusion
With only a handful of lodges spread across the islands, beaches often feel entirely your own.
Unforgettable Experiences
Sun, sand and the wonders of the Indian Ocean.
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Dhow Safaris
Sail to the islands aboard a traditional dhow, with a seafood lunch on a sandbank.
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Humpback Whale Watching
See migrating humpback whales, typically from July to October.
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Snorkeling & Diving
Discover reefs alive with turtles, rays and tropical fish.
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Kitesurfing
Ride the steady winds across the shallow, turquoise bay.
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Deep-Sea Fishing
Head out in search of marlin and sailfish.
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Dugong Spotting
Search the seagrass beds for one of the ocean's rarest mammals.
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Scenic Flights
See the bay, sandbanks and islands from above.
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Horse Riding
Explore Mozambique's beautiful coastline, riding along pristine beaches and through shallow turquoise waters.
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SUP & Canoeing
Explore calm coastal waters and mangrove channels by stand-up paddleboard or canoe.
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Spa & Wellness
Unwind with ocean-view treatments.
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Romantic Dinners
Enjoy a private dinner on the beach, with a beautifully set table, delicious food and the sound of the ocean under the stars.
When to visit
The archipelago enjoys warm weather year-round.
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The dry winter season brings sunny days, calm seas and the best diving visibility. Humpback whales pass from around July to October.
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Hot and humid, with occasional tropical storms. It is a good time for diving and turtle sightings, with fewer visitors.
Premier Stays
Island lodges with private villas steps from the ocean.
Classic Island Resorts
Established luxury island resorts offering beautiful beachfront accommodation, exceptional hospitality and a range of marine experiences.
Boutique Island Retreats
More intimate, design-led escapes offering privacy, space and a relaxed sense of barefoot luxury.
Pairs Perfectly with…
Because the best safaris rarely stop at one destination.
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Cape Town
End among mountains, vineyards and the Atlantic Ocean.
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Kruger
Begin with a Big Five safari, a short flight away.
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Vilanculos
Cross the bay to the relaxed coastal town of palm-lined beaches .
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Okavango Delta
Pair Botswana's water wilderness with the Indian Ocean.
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Victoria Falls
Add the thundering spectacle of one of the world's greatest waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Fly from Johannesburg to Vilanculos, then transfer to your island by helicopter or boat.
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May to November offers sunny days and calm seas. Humpback whales are usually seen from July to October.
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US citizens don't need a visa for stays of up to 30 days, but must apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before travel.
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Mozambique is a malaria area, so we recommend speaking toyour doctor about antimalarial medication.
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The Bazaruto Archipelago is a peaceful island destination, far from the country's northern regions. We monitor all official guidance and brief you fully before you travel.
