Safari Holidays in The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos

Jewels of the Indian Ocean: Pristine Beaches, Marine Wonders, and Unforgettable Island Safaris.

High Season

June to September

Size

Bazaruto Archipelago – approx 1,430 square kilometres; Quirimbas Archipelago – approx 7,500 square kilometres

Altitude

Sea level

The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos Safari Holidays

Islands of Coral and Calm: Mozambique’s Ocean Paradise

Scattered like pearls along Mozambique’s stunning coastline, the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos are a dreamscape of powdery white beaches, turquoise waters, and teeming marine life. These island chains are more than just a tropical escape — they’re living marine sanctuaries where dugongs glide through seagrass beds, dolphins leap in the surf, and coral reefs burst with colour. Whether you’re looking to snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, sail in a traditional dhow, or simply relax in the shade of swaying palms, the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos offer a rare combination of untouched beauty and vibrant culture.

Why Visit The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos?

he Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos are unlike any other safari destination — instead of game drives on dusty plains, your wildlife encounters happen in turquoise waters and along sun-bleached beaches. You’ll swap binoculars for snorkel masks, searching for dugongs, turtles, and pods of dolphins. These islands are also a place to slow down, reconnect, and savour the simple pleasures of island life: sailing on a dhow at sunset, feasting on fresh seafood under the stars, and waking each morning to the sound of gentle waves. Their mix of untouched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and world-class diving make them a rare, must-see combination of marine safari and barefoot luxury.

Wildlife and Nature

While most people associate safaris with savannahs, these archipelagos prove that the ocean can be just as thrilling.

Bazaruto is home to one of the last viable populations of dugong in the Western Indian Ocean, alongside turtles, manta rays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. Quirimbas adds an extra layer of wonder with its extensive coral reefs, home to more than 400 species of fish, as well as spinner dolphins and seasonal humpback whales. On land, the islands host nesting seabirds and endemic plant species, their coastal dunes and mangroves forming crucial habitats that support this fragile ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit Bazaruto & Quirimbas

The best time to visit the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos is from May to November, when the dry season delivers clear skies, calm seas, and excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling. This is also when the wind conditions are ideal for sailing in a dhow or trying out kitesurfing. The high season of June to September coincides with cooler, more comfortable temperatures and the arrival of humpback whales along the coast. The wet season (December to April) brings hotter, more humid conditions, occasional tropical storms, and reduced underwater visibility, though it also means fewer crowds and lush green island landscapes.

Safari Experiences in The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos

Snorkelling and Diving Among Coral Gardens: Immerse yourself in some of the clearest waters in the Indian Ocean, where healthy coral reefs teem with tropical fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks. Both Bazaruto and Quirimbas boast protected marine areas, with sites like Two Mile Reef in Bazaruto and Matemo Island in Quirimbas ranking among the best in the world for underwater photography and marine encounters.

Dhow Sailing Adventures: Step aboard a traditional Mozambican dhow and sail between islands, feeling the warm breeze and watching the coastline drift by. These journeys offer an intimate look at island life, with opportunities to stop at fishing villages, snorkel in secluded bays, and enjoy freshly caught seafood cooked right on the beach.

Dugong and Whale Watching: Bazaruto is one of the last refuges for the elusive dugong, a gentle marine mammal closely related to the manatee. Quirimbas, on the other hand, offers incredible whale-watching opportunities between July and October, when humpback whales migrate through the warm channel waters.

Island Hopping and Cultural Encounters: From the Portuguese-influenced architecture of Ibo Island to the palm-fringed beaches of Benguerra, island hopping reveals the cultural and historical richness of these archipelagos. Learn about traditional fishing methods, explore ancient ruins, and sample Mozambican coastal cuisine infused with spices from centuries-old trade routes.

Where to Stay in The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos

The Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos are home to some of Mozambique’s most unique and luxurious coastal stays, offering everything from barefoot luxury to authentic, eco-friendly retreats. Each option pairs spectacular natural settings with warm Mozambican hospitality.

Luxury Island Lodges – Stay in beautifully designed villas with private pools, direct beach access, and world-class service. Many include all-inclusive packages featuring gourmet meals, guided excursions, and spa treatments with ocean views.

Rustic Beach Bungalows – Perfect for travellers seeking simplicity and seclusion, these bungalows are often set right on the sand, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment and offering a true back-to-nature experience.

Boutique Eco-Resorts – Combining sustainability with style, these properties use solar power, rainwater harvesting, and locally sourced materials while still offering comfort and exceptional service.



We have access to a wide range of handpicked accommodation options in the Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos — from rustic eco-camps and authentic beach lodges to stylish island retreats. If you don’t see the exact lodge or resort you’re looking for, just let us know — we’re able to arrange a variety of stays to suit different tastes, travel styles, and budgets.

A Selection of our Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos Safari Accommodation

We have access to a wide range of handpicked accommodation options — from rustic eco-camps and authentic bush lodges to stylish tented retreats with breathtaking views. If you don’t see the exact lodge or camp you’re looking for, just let us know — we can arrange a variety of stays to suit different tastes, travel styles, and budgets.

Average Weather and Climate in The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos

The Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos enjoy a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making them ideal for those seeking a sun-drenched escape. Days are generally hot and sunny, with refreshing sea breezes keeping conditions comfortable on the coast.



• May to September: Dry season, cooler temperatures (20–27°C), low humidity, and calm seas — perfect for water sports and marine safaris.
• October to November: Warmer transition months (24–31°C), great for diving as underwater visibility peaks.
• December to April: Hot and humid wet season (26–33°C) with occasional heavy rains and the possibility of tropical storms.

Even during the wet season, showers are typically brief, and sunshine often returns quickly — meaning the islands remain a year-round destination for travellers who don’t mind a little tropical drama.

Combine with Other Destinations

The Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos can be effortlessly paired with mainland Mozambique’s wildlife reserves, such as Gorongosa National Park for a land-and-sea safari combination. They also connect well with South Africa’s Kruger National Park via regional flights, offering travellers the ultimate “Big Five and beach” experience. For those looking to explore further afield, the islands’ proximity to Tanzania’s southern coast makes them a natural extension of a Selous or Ruaha safari.

Their accessible coastal hubs also make it easy to combine your island stay with cultural stops in Maputo or even a cross-border adventure into Malawi. Talk to us about creating a custom itinerary.

Travelling from UK to Bazaruto & Quirimbas

Reaching the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos from the UK is straightforward, with several convenient flight connections. The most common route to Bazaruto is via Johannesburg or Maputo, followed by a short domestic flight to Vilankulo and then a boat or light aircraft transfer to your island lodge. For the Quirimbas, travellers usually connect through Johannesburg or Dar es Salaam before flying to Pemba, where boat or air transfers are available to the islands.

Flight times from London to Mozambique range from 12 to 15 hours including layovers, and we recommend allowing extra time for international and domestic transfer connections.

Discover the Wild, Your Way: Tailor Your Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos Safari with Us

Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, spending your days exploring coral reefs, and ending each evening with a sunset dhow cruise. Whether you dream of diving alongside manta rays, spotting a dugong for the first time, or simply lounging on a pristine beach with a cocktail in hand, we’ll make it happen.



Talk to us about the experiences you’ve always dreamed of. We’ll match you with handpicked lodges, expert local guides, and authentic adventures that bring the Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos to life.

Speak to one of our safari specialists today — call us or fill out our quick enquiry form, and let’s start planning your tailor-made adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions