Bazaruto Archipelago National Park

Wildlife

Bazaruto is best known for its marine life. The archipelago’s seagrass beds support the largest remaining population of dugongs in East Africa, a shy, endangered marine mammal related to the manatee. Sightings are never guaranteed but are possible on boat trips and scenic flights.

The reefs are home to hundreds of species of tropical fish, along with corals, rays and moray eels. Manta rays and whale sharks are seen at times, and dolphins are common. Several species of sea turtle, including loggerhead, green and leatherback turtles, live in the area, and some nest on the island beaches in summer. Humpback whales pass through the channel during their winter migration.

On land, the islands support samango monkeys, duikers, red squirrels and pythons, and Nile crocodiles live in some of the freshwater lakes. More than 180 bird species have been recorded, with flamingos on the tidal flats at times, waders, fish eagles and many migrant shorebirds.

Key wildlife

• Dugong
• Loggerhead turtle
• Green turtle
• Manta ray
• Whale shark
• Humpback whale
• Dolphin
• Nile crocodile
• Samango monkey
• Flamingo

Best Time to Visit

Short answer: May–Nov. Also good: Dec, Apr.

Peak Good Quieter

Bazaruto has a warm, tropical climate and can be visited all year. The dry winter months from May to November are the most comfortable, with sunny days, lower humidity and cooler nights. Humpback whales are usually seen between about July and October.

The summer months from December to April are hot and humid, with most of the year’s rain and the possibility of tropical cyclones, particularly from January to March. Summer is also turtle nesting season and offers warm, clear water for diving and snorkelling between weather systems. Malaria is present along the Mozambique coast, so take medical advice before you travel.

Getting There

Vilankulo Airport (VNX) is the gateway to the archipelago, with flights from Johannesburg and Maputo. From Vilankulo, island lodges arrange transfers by boat or helicopter, depending on the lodge, taking from around 15 minutes by air to an hour by boat.

Many travellers combine Bazaruto with a safari in the Kruger or the Sabi Sand, flying from Johannesburg or the Kruger area to Vilankulo. Day trips to the islands are also available from Vilankulo.

See our Kruger to coast safari and sea and romantic Chobe, delta and Mozambique island safari.

Fees & Access

Entrance fees

International visitors pay a park conservation fee of 900 meticais per person per day for any excursion or overnight stay in the park, with extra charges for some activities such as snorkelling. Island lodges and licensed boat operators usually include or collect the fee; independent visitors can pay at the park office in Vilankulo before crossing. Confirm current rates with your lodge or operator, as they are not published on the park authority’s website.

Gate hours

Park open 24 hours, every day (ANAC).

Health

Malaria risk: Moderate. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials before you go.

Fees and gate times change. Check the latest rates with the park authority before you travel.

Things to Do

Snorkelling and diving on the reefs, including the well-known Two Mile Reef, reveal colourful fish, corals and, with luck, turtles and rays.

Dhow cruises on traditional sailing boats are a relaxing way to explore the islands, often with a sandbank picnic.

Dune walks to the top of the islands’ high dunes offer spectacular views over the turquoise channels and sandbanks.

Fishing trips for game fish such as marlin and sailfish are popular, with catch-and-release encouraged.

Kayaking, paddleboarding and horse riding on the beaches are offered at some lodges.

Browse all safaris or plan your safari with us to add Bazaruto to your trip.