Bazaruto Archipelago and Benguerra Island
Situated just off the main land about 760 km north of Maputo, Declared a national park in 1971, the archipelago boasts among its wildlife 180 species of birds, endemic butterflies, Suni antelope and freshwater crocodile. The protected reefs and beaches support dolphin, dugong, game fish, giant lobster and several species of marine turtle. These combinations make for a diverse and unique ecosystem.The Archipelago is not the ideal location for those whose idea of a holiday is shopping as there are no shops, roads, or vehicles, just crystal clear water and squeaky white beaches.
Villanculos - the main land town servicing the island can be reached on tar roads. Access to the islands from the mainland is by boat or light aircraft transfer, depending on which resort you are travelling to.
There are flights from Johannesburg to Vilanculos on LAM daily.
There is a huge variety of
activities on Bazaruto Island
. Fishing of all kinds is popular and a catch, photograph and release policy is encouraged. Diving on the many stunning reefs including an introductory talk and slide show on the corals to encourage conservation. Sailing safaris to outlying reefs or islands on a catamaran or take a hobie cat, wind surfer or paddle ski for a shorter excursion. There is also water skiing and paragliding. A sunset dhow trips is a beautiful way to the end the day in peace watching out for flamingos, dolphins, dugong and whales.There are interesting walking trails on all of the islands leading visitors to the mangrove community, freshwater lakes and turtle nests. Bird watching during these walks can produce many interesting species there are over 115 different varieties. On Bazaruto go and see the centennial lighthouse, on Margaruque the ruined 19th century fort and on Benguerra take a tour round a local village with the chief and herbalist.
Bazaruto Archipelago Weather
: Weather is increasingly difficult to predict – below is a guideline of what can be expected:January : Hot. 28-35°C. Rainy season
February : Hot. 28-38°C. Rainy season, mostly storms in afternoon.
March : Cooling down. 25-30°C. Little rain.
April : Weather settled. 25-30°C. Little rain.
May : Lovely month, weather settled. 20-28°C. No rain.
June : Fine weather. 18-27°C. No rain.
July/August : Winter months, but warm. 15-25°C. No rain.
September : Warming up again. Nice month. 18-28°C. Rain unlikely.
October : Getting hot again. 23-30°C. Rains unlikely.
November : Hot. 22-33°C. Rains could start.
December : Hot. 23-36°C. Could rain.
Bazaruto Archipelago Holiday Accommodation
available are 4 and 5 star resorts and lodges that cater for honeymoon couples, relaxing getaways for 2, family getaways and Groups.View our Bazaruto Island Accommodation listed on www.bazarutoaccommodation.com