Along the Mozambican channel, opposite Vilankulo on the mainland, are five exquisite islands – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Bangue and Paradise – forming the Bazaruto Archipelago. The entire Archipelago is part of a conservation project with the objective of maintaining the ecological and social integrity of the Bazaruto National Park by wise sustainable use of the resources.

The largest of the islands, Bazaruto Island, is approximately 35km/22miles long and 7km/4 miles at its widest point. A coral-reefed island, it features an astounding array of marine life, and is a premier surf-fishing destination. Bazaruto has an abundance of bird and animal life. Walking trails lead visitors to interesting areas such as mangrove communities, freshwater lakes and turtle nests, and a walk up to the lighthouse is a must. Diving and snorkelling off Bazaruto reveals an underwater wonderland.

Benguerra Island is heaven for those wanting to relax in this tranquil island paradise, with no major land predators to disturb the cycle of nature. The slow-moving dugongs are amongst the most interesting of the marine mammals, normally encountered in family groups of about five. The Bazaruto archipelago is one of the only remaining havens in the world for the gentle dugongs who are classified by the IUCN Red Data List as Vulnerable. Five species of dolphin found in the area can be seen frolicking in the ocean, and in the summer months humpback whales cruise past in the deeper water.

The landscape is made up of beaches and freshwater lakes – a highlight being the flocks of flamingoes on the sandbanks. Anglers can experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing, on a tag-and-release basis, for game fish, in fully equipped boats with an experienced skipper.