Bazaruto ArchipelagoThe Bazaruto Archipelago is one of Africa's finest beach destinations, consisting of two huge islands (Bazaruto and Benguerra) and two smaller islands (Santa Isobel and Santa Carolina). This whole archipelago offers wonderful beaches and world class diving. This is the perfect beach add-on from a Southern Africa safari for those wanting the barefoot luxury, although it does get quite a large following from fisherman.
Today this group of 4 islands just off the Southern Coast of Mozambique is Southern Africa’s beach idyll; a ridge of picturesque sand dunes rising out of the Indian Ocean, teaming with life. Home to East Africa’s largest population of Dugong or sea cow; a fascinating, lumbering animal closely related to the elephant. Nile crocodiles can still be found throughout the islands and eagles saw through the air with ospreys and flocks of flamingos; the diversity of bird life here is truly remarkable, surpassed only by the wealth of life in the sea.
The stunning coral reefs off these islands are home to over 2000 species of fish, whales and dolphin creating perfect in dive sites, well regarded as some of the best spots in the world. The 5 types of turtle in the Indian Ocean are found here, using miles upon miles of unspoilt beaches as their breeding grounds. Further off the coast, in the deeper channels sailfish and marlin make for unbelievable deep sea fishing.
With its National Park status, the entire archipelago is an ecological gem which separated from the mainland thousands of years ago. The natural beauty of these islands has been preserved in some part simply due to the difficulty in reaching them!
There is no doubt that the Bazaruto Archipelago is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt beach locations in the world. And with waters that offer some of the best diving around, it is easy to see why these beaches are becoming world renowned. Bazaruto: Accommodation Choices
The oldest and arguably most famous lodge in the archipelago is Benguerra itself, a stylish lodge that has set the standards of accommodation in Mozambique for years. The fairly recent introduction of Azura however, just up the beach from Benguerra, has meant there is an alternative option for high end luxury accommodation. Indigo Bay, run by Rani Resorts, is a much larger and more commercial hotel that has the widest diversity of activities and facilities. Indigo is a good option for families. Marlin Lodge is another luxury hotel, but one where we believe value is somewhat questionable. Finally, Bazaruto Lodge is very well priced and offers the most economical choice.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Bazaruto Archipelago
This lodge is guideline for others to follow; service is exemplary and not intrusive. You can be left completely on your own or encouraged to do as much as possible; either way, it feels like home.
Beguerra Island
We regard Azura as a great choice of lodge to experience a complete getaway from normal daily lives. Most importantly, it is located in a national park which offers this sense of remoteness coupled with nature
Bazaruto Archipelago
It is situated in Bazaruto on the southwest shore of Benguerra Island, an area whose beach was seemingly made for postcards; one of the finest beaches in the world.
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