SOUTHERN MOZAMBIQUE

Off the southern coast of Mozambique, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, lies the coastline of vilanculos and the remote Benguerra Island within the bazaruto archipelago.

The second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Benguerra is a picturesque paradise where time slows and the beauty of its calm, azure waters envelops you. The island’s activities provide a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. You can rest on the warm sandy beaches, indulge in a spa treatment, climb a massive sand dune, or explore the prolific waters of the Indian Ocean.

Benguerra Island and Mozambique’s coastline are easy to get to from South Africa, with direct flights from Johannesburg and Nelspruit to to Vilanculos. After a short transfer from Vilanculos to the island or your beach lodge, you arrive at this magical paradise. Accommodations on Benguerra are remote and peaceful. However, local diving spots tend to be a bit busier than those off of Mozambique’s northern coast.

Further down the coast lies Ponta Mamoli, a beautiful stretch of unspoiled beach on Mozambique’s southern mainland coast. Surrounded by untouched tracts of tropical forest and beach, Ponta Mamoli is a perfect place to take in the natural beauty of Mozambique’s coast. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, exploring the island on horseback, diving in its warm ocean waters, or taking a trip to find souvenirs at the local market. Its southerly location in a cool, sheltered bay, just north of South Africa’s Kosi Bay, makes this beach destination a great addition to a South African safari.

Let’s take this out

Seasons

Mozambique’s southern coast experiences warm temperatures and sunny days with little rainfall. Average temperatures range from the high 70s to high 80s, with comfortable nights in the 60s to mid-70s. Water temperatures are warm and remain perfect for enjoying water activities year round. Most of the year’s rain falls from December to March in the form of passing tropical rain showers.

Wildlife

The reefs in the Bazaruto Archipelago are alive with an abundance of fish and corals. The varied topography of its reefs offers exciting underwater adventures for beginning and experienced divers alike. Two Mile Reef, north of Benguerra Island, is home to colorful corals, hundreds of species of tropical fish, moray eels, dolphins, and sea turtles. A special sighting of highly endangered gentle giant, the dugong (close relatives to manatees), would make you a very lucky visitor! Typically from July to November, humpback whales, whale sharks, and manta rays visit Benguerra’s waters.

Further down the coast in Ponta Mamoli, the area offers an exclusive scuba diving experience along protected reefs. Diving and snorkeling adventures reveal an underwater wonderland of colorful corals and lively fish. Bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles also visit the island’s clear waters. From July to November each year, families of humpback whales pass by on their annual migration.

Activities

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Scuba dive or snorkel around a nearby reef and discover the underwater world where hundreds of species of tropical fish, coral, rays, and invertebrates live. Keep a look out for one of the various species of turtle that inhabit these waters. New divers can become certified to dive after completing the PADI course at the dive center.
1. Embark on a tag-and-release fishing adventure! Benguerra Island is a top fishing destination for marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Giant trevally, a specialty sport fish found in the area, can weigh up to 110 pounds!
1. Take a journey along the sandy beaches and inland trails on horseback and discover the island’s beauty from a new perspective!
1. Learn about local conservation efforts that monitor, tag, and protect sea turtles that nest along the sandy beaches.
1. Take a long stroll along sandy beaches and then enjoy a romantic picnic in a secluded spot!