Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique; An Expert Guide
When sailors first laid eyes on the Bazaruto Archipelago they talked of sand dunes rising out of the sea, isolated by turquoise waters brimming with sea life. Strange saltwater hippos lived on the sandy banks, Nile crocodiles sunbathed under palm trees and eagles flew over their ships, investigating those encroaching on their isolated home. Today the Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of 5 islands just off the Southern Coast of Mozambique is Southern Africas beach idyll; a ridge of picturesque sand dunes rising out of the Indian Ocean, teaming with life. The strange saltwater hippos are East Africas largest population of Dugong or sea cow; a fascinating , lumbering animal closely related to the elephant. The Nile crocodiles no longer have pride of place under all the palm trees but they are still found throughout the islands and the eagles still saw through the air with ospreys and flocks of flamingoes; the diversity of bird life here is truly remarkable, surpassed only by the wealth of life in the sea. The stunning coral reefs that line the seas off these islands play host to over 2000 species of fish, whales and dolphin with numerous types of coral creating perfection in diving locations, well regarded as some of the best spots in the world. The 5 types of turtles 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 provide for unbelievable deap sea fishing on an almost daily basis. Preserved as a National Park, the entire archipelago is an ecological gem thought to have been separated from the mainland thousands of years ago, preserving their natural beauty simply because of the difficulty in access. Today however all but one of Bazarutos 5 islands are inhabited, hosting first class accommodations, some of which are absolute perfection in beach hideaways. Bazaruto and Benguerra are the largest and where the best accommodations can be found. Bazaruto, at approximately 40kms long, holds some of the finest beaches in the area, miles long and squeaky under foot! There is no doubt that the Bazaruto Archipelago is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt beach locations in the world; her waters offer the best diving along the East African coast. It is easy to see why this beautiful strectch of coast is becoming so well known.
Bazaruto Archipelago - How to get there
The vast majority of travellers will approach the Bazaruto Archipelago from Jo'Burg, South Africa. Pelican Air fly from Jo'Burg to Vilanculos, the gateway to Bazaruto with 2 flights every day of the week. The flights depart at 10:20 arriving 12:30 and at 12:00 arriving 14:15. The connecting flight with the same airline head off to the islands immediatly, The price is approx. $400 return.For General safari information please look at The Safari Page Please phone us to discuss with one of our consultants; Even better please come in in person. Tel +44 (0) 20 7471 8780 or Email Us
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