Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
Parks and Gardens
The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is located off the coast between the Vilanculos and Inhassoro districts, spanning six islands and the surrounding ocean. It is bordered on the southern side by the Sao Sebastio peninsula, on the west by the mainland, and on the east and south by the Indian Ocean. The main islands are Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina/Paradise, and Bangue.
The park is known especially for its dugong population, which is the only viable population of dugongs on the east coast of Africa. The population currently (2019) stands at around 250 individuals. There are ocean safaris and whale watching trips with various companies in the area, and if you are lucky you might spot a dugong on one of these outings. The Bazaruto Archipelago is also known for the humpback whale migration between August and November, and trips to spot some of these magnificent creatures go out frequently.
The Bazaruto Archipelago has many amazing coral reefs, which offer beautiful snorkeling and diving experiences. Much of the area is protected from fishing.