Bazaruto Archipelago Mozambique Travel Guide
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a warm climate year-round, divided into two main periods: wet (November to April) and dry (May to October).
Wet Season brings higher temperatures (26°C to 32°C) and humidity, with frequent but short and intense rainfall. Dry Season offers cooler, drier weather (20°C to 25°C), minimal rain, and consistently clear, sunny skies. Winds can be stronger during July and August.
Certain activities flourish during particular times of the year, leading to a richer experience.
Diving With scuba equipment and Snorkeling: May to September provides the best visibility. Deep-Sea Fishing: September to April has prime opportunities for Marlin. Whale Watching: August to October is the the busiest season for whale sightings. Birdwatching: November to April, coinciding with the wet season, offers excellent birdwatching. Kitesurfing: May to October delivers consistent winds.
Tropical Cyclones
Wet season, late December to March.
Heavy rains, strong winds, rough seas. Can disrupt travel, flight schedules, and resort operations.
Heat & Humidity
Wet season.
Can feel intense. Stay hydrated and stay in the shade as the sun is strongest.
The State of the sea
Winds in dry season can make seas rough, especially for kitesurfing.
Can influence conditions at sea and activities. Transfers may see delays or rescheduling.
Mozambique has simplified its visa rules for tourists from many countries. As of May 1ST, 2023, Mozambique implemented a visa waiver program for tourists from 29 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union member states. This waiver makes stays of up to 30 days possible. Travelers from this group countries receive a visa on arrival at official border posts and airports, including Vilanculos International Airport (VFA). A processing fee is payable upon arrival.
For nationalities not covered by the waiver, a pre-arranged tourist visa from a Mozambican embassy or a consulate in your home nation is still mandatory. The application process typically involves submitting a completed form, passport photos, and supporting documents. Business visas and other types also can be found for specific purposes.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Mozambique and hold at least 3 blank pages for stamps.
Provide evidence of your onward or return travel to confirm your intention to leave Mozambique within the permitted stay.
Present a confirmation of your hotel, lodge, or resort booking.
For visa-passport holders exempt from visas, a fee (currently 650 MZN / approx. US$10) is payable upon arrival. Have local currency or USD notes prepared.
Mandatory if arriving from or transiting through a country with Yellow Fever transmission risk.
This destination spans from relatively budget-friendly (if staying on the continental landmass) to quite luxurious, specifically on the islands.
The official currency is the Mozambican Metical (MZN). Exchange rates fluctuate (e.g., ONE US dollar ≈ 63 MZN). Major currencies like USD, EUR, and ZAR exchange at banks and official bureaus in Vilanculos. ATMs dispense Metical. Credit cards are accepted at upscale lodges plus larger Vilanculos establishments; cash is needed for smaller local businesses.
Tipping is appreciated but remains discretionary. It shows recognition for good service.
While Bazaruto is a luxury destination, you can keep costs down effectively.
Mozambique holds specific health considerations, and awareness of local safety practices is always useful.
Mandatory if arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country. Carry the original certificate.
High risk in Mozambique. Consult a doctor for prophylaxis. Use Insect Repellent with DEET or picaridin, and sleep under mosquito nets.
Ensure routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, Polio) are current. Hepatitis A and b and Typhoid are often recommended.
Diarrhea/Foodborne Illness: Eat thoroughly cooked, hot food. Avoid untreated water. Wash hands or use Hand sanitizer.
Sunburn/Heatstroke: Use high-SPF Reef-Safe Sunscreen, wear a Wide-brimmed hat, Sunglasses, and stay hydrated with Bottled water.
Marine Stings/Bites: Be aware of jellyfish, stonefish. Wear Reef shoes or fins when wading. Listen to guides.
Access to healthcare is limited on islands; emergency evacuation to Vilanculos or Southward Africa may be mandatory.
Highly recommended. Policy should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and crucially, emergency medical evacuation.
Confirm policy covers activities like diving with scuba gear, deep-sea fishing, or other adventure sports.
Police: 112 or 119, Ambulance: 117, Fire: 198. Keep lodge, embassy, and travel insurance 24/7 emergency lines accessible.
The Bazaruto Archipelago isles are generally very safe. Vilanculos (mainland) is generally safe during the day, but petty crime can occur.
Do not drink tap water in Mozambique. Rely on bottled or lodge-purified water.
Use Bottled water or lodge-filtered water. Many eco-friendly lodges give filtered water in reusable bottles. A Portable Water Filter can be a good backup.
Eat at reputable establishments. Food should be thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid unhygienic street food.
Choose fruits you can peel yourself. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or clean your hands with sanitizer before eating.
