Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Living amid all the natural beauty are about 3500 Mozambicans who call the ar-
chipelago home.
Just south of the Bazaruto Archipelago is the São Sebastião Peninsula, which is dotted
with small lakes, lagoons and stands of mangrove, and edged by the same turquoise wa-
ters that lap the islands of the archipelago. It's known especially for its flamingos and oth-
er water birds. Day excursions (via speedboat charter) are best arranged from Vilankulo.
History
Although many of the island residents are relatively recent arrivals who sought haven dur-
ing the war years, the archipelago's history reaches well back. The islands (previously
known as the Hucicas or Vacicas) were long famed for their pearls and ambergris. By at
least the 15th century, they were the site of a thriving maritime community sustained by
the coastal dhow trade. The earliest Portuguese trading settlements dated from the
mid-16th century, while the first permanent Portuguese settlement was established on
Santa Carolina in the mid-19th century. Today, all of the islands except Bangué are inhab-
ited.
Activities
Diving
Dives, equipment rental and certification courses can be organised at any of the lodges, or
in Vilankulo (
Click here
)
.
Game Fishing
Game fishing (tag-and-release) can be arranged at all of the lodges.
Sailing
Sailing trips around the archipelago can be arranged with island hotels, and with the
Vilankulo-based dhow safari operators (
Click here
)
. Magaruque - the closest island to
Vilankulo and the main destination for day sailing/snorkelling safaris from the mainland -
has a rock shelf with lots of fish, although only isolated coral patches, on its western side.
Surf shoes or other protective footwear are essential, as there are many sharp edges; most
operators provide these.
