Comprising two huge islands, Bazaruto and Benguerra, and two smaller islands, Santa Isobel and Santa Carolina, the Bazaruto Archipelago is one of Africa's finest beach destinations. This whole archipelago offers wonderful beaches, world-class diving and a fabulous barefoot luxury ambiance.
This group of four islands just off Mozambique's southern coast is Southern Africa’s beach idyll; a ridge of picturesque sand dunes rising out of the Indian Ocean, with some of the most unspoilt beach locations in the world.
The area has National Park status, and teems with a remarkable diversity of bird life and marine life. This is 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 soar through the air with ospreys and flocks of flamingos. The stunning coral reefs off these islands are home to over 2000 species of fish, whales and dolphin, and the Indian Ocean's 5 types of turtle are found here. No surprise then that this area is recognised as offering some of the best diving in the world. Further off the coast in the deeper channels, sailfish and marlin make for exceptional deep sea fishing.
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Bazaruto Archipelago: where to stay
The oldest and arguably most famous lodge within the archipelago is the stylish Benguerra, which has set the standards of accommodation in Mozambique for years. The fairly recent arrival of Azura just up the beach however has introduced an alternative high-end luxury option.
Indigo Bay, run by Rani Resorts, is a much larger and more commercial hotel with a wide range of facilities and activities available; this is a great option for families. Marlin Lodge is another luxury hotel, but we are not convinced of its value for money. Finally, Bazaruto Lodge is very well-priced and is the most economical option in the region.
