Protected islands and clear Indian Ocean waters
The Bazaruto Archipelago is one of the Indian Ocean’s most intact marine environments. Protected as a national park off the southern coast of Mozambique, the islands’ waters are clear and filled with healthy reefs. With only a few luxury lodges on the peaceful dune-formed beaches, staying here offers exclusivity deep in nature.
You arrive via the mainland town of Vilanculos, transferring by light aircraft or private boat directly to your island lodge. You’ll never be far from the sea: snorkel over shallow coral reefs where turtles feed and reef fish gather. Sail between islands, stopping at sandbanks and beaches with no other traffic.
From June to October, humpback whales migrate along this stretch of coastline – an incredible welcome if you spot them as you arrive. On land, stroll Bazaruto’s broad beaches and climb up dunes for impressive views across the entire archipelago.
We reccommend adding your Bazaruto Archipelago holiday as the final stage of a longer African journey. It is easily combined with a safari in South Africa, providing a luxurious and relaxed stay after days out on big game drives. Several of the islands work particularly well for this kind of extension, such as Benguerra, with its sheltered bays and easy access to surrounding reefs.
Our travel designers know the Bazaruto Archipelago through first-hand experience. They can provide advice on which island and lodge to choose, arrange flights and transfers and coordinate boats and guides with care. Contact our team to start planning a journey that connects seamlessly with the rest of your tour through southern Africa.
Highlights
Snorkel and scuba dive in Two Mile Reef and Five Mile Reef, known for coral, turtles and reef fish
Sail in a traditional dhow between Bazaruto Island and Benguerra Island at sunset
Enjoy a private picnic on sandbanks or beaches inside Bazaruto National Park
Spot a rich diversity of birdlife, like flamingos and migratory seabirds, around coastal lagoons and shallows
Hike up a dune on Benguerra Island to glimpse views across the archipelago and Indian Ocean
One of my favourite experiences in Bazaruto is walking up into the dunes early and spotting flamingos down in the lagoons. You wander back to the lodge afterwards, have a long lunch and then decide whether you’re heading out on the water or just luxuriating in the room. It's a truly relaxing experience.

Ellie Smith
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Bazaruto Archipelago
There are many incredible places to stay in Bazaruto Archipelago. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:
Why book with Jacada?

Safari expertise
Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive hotels, camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.

Unforgettable guides
We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife, wineries and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.

Positive impact
By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.
Trip Inspiration
Get inspired with our Bazaruto Archipelago example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure
Places to combine Bazaruto Archipelago with

Mozambique
Mozambique stretches along the Indian Ocean with a long, lightly developed coastline and offshore islands. Warm water, healthy reefs and wide beaches combine with easy access to marine parks and coastal towns.
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Quirimbas
Set off the northern coast of Mozambique, the Quirimbas Archipelago stretches for more than sixty miles of protected private islands. Clear, warm water and white sand frame healthy coral reefs and a secluded island life.
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South Africa
South Africa offers exceptional variety, from private game reserves and dramatic mountain ranges to vibrant cities and a rugged coastline. It’s a natural pairing of wildlife, culture and diverse landscapes within one journey.
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Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe's southern bank of the Zambezi is renowned for its high water volume, the most intense and dramatic waterfall views can be found here. There’s many activities to enjoy from exhilarating micro-light flights to peaceful sunset cruises.
Discover moreMeet your Africa team
When to visit Bazaruto Archipelago
August and September are late winter in Mozambique – a good time of year if you’re combining Bazaruto with a southern African safari, when dry conditions support better wildlife viewing. The dry season runs from May to October, bringing warm days, calmer seas and more settled conditions along the coast. Diving and snorkelling are strongest from May to September, when visibility improves and marine activity increases.

Diving and Snorkelling
May–September

Coastal Walks
May–October

Safari Pairing
August–September
Travel guides
Plan your trip to Bazaruto Archipelago
Whatever you want from your adventure in Bazaruto Archipelago, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.


Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.







































