This seaside destination still attracts few tourists. However, it offers a unique experience with dream beaches and rare animals to discover.
For travelers who are still looking to get off the beaten track and get away from the crowds of tourists, there are still hidden treasures and a few unspoilt paradises, far from the frenzy that awaits the Mediterranean on sunny days or, further south, fashionable destinations like Morocco or the Canary Islands. This archipelago is a haven of natural beauty which still remains largely empty of tourists. It includes several protected natural areas and, despite the beauty of its waters and beaches, this archipelago still attracts few European visitors.
This low influx of tourists allows those who visit to enjoy an authentic and tranquil experience. Tourists from a large neighboring country, South Africa, have already made it their secret hideout to indulge in diving and snorkelling. However, there is little chance of seeing them en masse: attendance forecasts reach only 150,000 tourists, 10 to 15 times less than other island destinations.
This preserved destination is the Bazaruto archipelago in Mozambique. The 5 islands that make up the archipelago are lined with virgin beaches and white sand and the crystal clear waters invite diving to explore the coral reefs rich in marine life. The archipelago’s marine national park is thus recognized as one of the best snorkeling and scuba diving destinations in the world.
The waters surrounding the islands teem with marine life. They offer divers unforgettable encounters with tropical fish, dolphins, whales and sharks. Nature lovers will also be seduced by the rare fauna that can be observed there. Turtles, diademed monkeys, small antelopes and pink flamingos have made their haven of peace there. Above all, Bazaruto includes the last population of dugongs on the African coast. The dugong is a curious marine mammal, close to the manatee, whose importance in marine biodiversity has been particularly studied by scientists in recent years.
In recent years, hotels with luxurious services have sprung up in Bazaruto. They attract a wealthy clientele, mainly South African, looking for isolation and breathtaking landscapes. However, life on the islands remains remarkably inexpensive, especially for visitors from abroad. Local communities live simply, mainly from fishing. The Bazaruto Archipelago is home to 6,500 residents spread across seven communities on three inhabited islands, maintaining a way of life that has changed little over the years. This island community, with its warm welcome and authentic way of life, adds a rich cultural dimension to the visitor experience.