Inhambane
Bazaruto Archipelago
Five dune islands in a protected national park — turquoise channels, towering sand ridges and dugongs.
The Bazaruto Archipelago — Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangué — has been a national park since 1971, covering both the islands and the water between them. These are not coral islands but ancient dunes, some rising over 100 metres, with freshwater lakes hidden behind them.
Underwater, the archipelago protects one of the last viable dugong populations in the western Indian Ocean, along with turtles, dolphins and reef systems including Two Mile Reef. Above water, the dunes of Bazaruto Island give one of the most striking views on the entire coast.
Access is by boat or light aircraft from Vilankulo, and visitor numbers stay low by design.
Things to do
- Bazaruto sand dunes
- Two Mile Reef
- Benguerra Island
- Santa Carolina (Paradise Island)
- Dugong and turtle habitat
Gallery
Where to stay
Lodge· €€€€
Azura Benguerra Island
Small beachfront villa retreat on Benguerra Island, built and run in partnership with the local community.
We do not sell or confirm availability. Contact the property directly.
Resort· €€€€
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort
Island resort inside Bazaruto National Park, with villas facing the channel and its dune backdrop.
We do not sell or confirm availability. Contact the property directly.Nearby
Inhambane
Tofo
Manta rays, whale sharks and a beach village that has kept its character.
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Inhambane
Inhambane Town
One of the oldest towns on the East African coast, still built around a working dhow harbour.
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Inhambane
Vilankulo
The gateway to Bazaruto: a wide tidal bay, dhow sails on the horizon and an easy, sociable town.
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Inhambane
Inhassoro
A quiet fishing town north of Vilankulo, the closest launch point for Santa Carolina.
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