From Wikitravel

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a group of islands off the coast of Vilanculos in Mozambique.

[edit] Understand

The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of five idyllic islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. The Archipelago is truly one of the most beautiful destinations on the African continent. The area is now protected as a conservation area and national park, including the coral reefs surrounding the islands, making it the only official marine reserve in the country. The park is one of the largest in the Indian Ocean and a crucial achievement in global marine conservation. A nearly untouched paradise on earth, the archipelago has earned its reputation as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean'.

[edit] Get in

Vilanculos is the gateway to the islands.

Daytrips by dhow can easily be arranged from the mainland. If staying at one of the resorts contact them for a possible pickup in Vilanculos, and if coming just to dive then you'll come on day trips on the fast dive boats.

If you're lucky enough to be staying at one of the deluxe resorts on the islands, a direct seaplane flight from Maputo can be arranged.

[edit] Get around

Between the islands boats are the only option, on the islands walking is the way to go.

[edit][add listing] See

Sand dunes are found throughout the Archipelago and tidal flats and inland saline lakes support a wide variety of seabird species. Coral reefs are also home to thousands of fish and coral species and marine mammal species. The largest dugong population along the eastern African coast can also be found here.

Mile after mile of deserted sandy beaches also grace the island. The leeward side of the island chain is surrounded by calm turquoise waters while the windward side offers an even more isolated and untamed seashore with waves constantly pounding the coastline.

[edit][add listing] Do

[edit] Horse Riding

The costal area surrounding the Bazaruto Archipelago is world renowned for its superb variety of white sand, alluring golden sunsets and tall palm trees. Mozambique Horse Safari specializes in custom-made horse safaris and day rides on Benguerra Island. Enjoy long stretches of untouched white sand beaches and magnificent views overlooking the islands. The area is suitable for riders of all levels of ability.

• Mozambique Horse Safari, Contact Pat Retzlaff at Benguerra Lodge on +258 827639249, info@mozambiquehorsesafari.com, [1]

[edit] Dhow Safari

Experience the wonder of a traditional sailing dhow gliding through the Bazaruto Archipelago. The islands of Benguerra, Bazaruto, Magaruque and Santa Carolina are complete with azure waters, sandy beaches, palm trees and pristine coral reefs. Contact Sailaway Dhow Safaris [2] for details and see their blog page [3] for pictures.

[edit] Game Fishing

The area surrounding is ranked as the best Black Marlin destination in the Eastern Indian Ocean. The season runs from early October through to end of January each year. The Marlin come close in to the shallow waters around the Islands and can often be found feeding around the shoals of various species of tuna that frequent our waters during this time of the year. The Bazaruto Archipelago area also offers salt water fly fishing for the sought-after bonefish

[edit] Scuba Diving

The archipelago's coral reefs and clear waters offer some of the best diving in the world, 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 you will discover protected reefs teeming with dolphin, hump back whales, whale sharks, sharks, manta and spotted eagle rays, green and turtles.

[edit][add listing] Eat

Unless you're staying at one of the resorts you'll likely have to pack a lunch from Vilanculos. If taking a dhow trip they will usually have chefs onboard that prepare delicious meals, from salads to calamari.

[edit][add listing] Drink

Some of the resorts serve alcohol in their restaurants.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

While offering an exquisite paradise, travelers may find accommodation on the islands prohibitively expensive, particularly with the closure of “Gabrielle’s”, the last reasonably priced accommodation, to make way for yet another luxury lodge. Fortunately the government is monitoring the development of the islands, and are allowing 'eco-friendly lodges', not massive hotels. If you can't afford these, Vilanculos offers a plethora of affordable places to sleep.

• Benguerra Lodge, Benguerra Island, tel: +27 11 452 0641 benguerra@icon.co.za, [4]. $395-582/night.

• Pestana Bazaruto Lodge, Bazaruto Island, tel: +258 21 305 000, reservas.africa@pestana.com, [5]. Rooms from $188/night.

• Rani Resorts Indigo Bay, Bazaruto Island, tel: +27 (0)11 467 1277, reservations@raniresorts.com, [6]. $132-1150/night.

Inhassoro just north of Vilanculos and closer to Basaruto and Santa Carolina offers many lodges and various accommodation options with its unspoilt beaches. For information visit www.inhassoro.org.

[edit] Stay safe

Sunburn can be a real risk on the islands, especially if on a day trip. Make use of the shade if you can find it during your lunch break, and bring a high SPF sunscreen.

[edit] Get out

Vilanculos is pretty much your only direct option.

This is a usable article. It has information about the park, for getting in, about a few attractions, and about accommodations in the park. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!