The Bazaruto Archipelago and the mainland gateway of Vilankulo represent the quintessential tropical escape for families visiting Mozambique. This region is renowned for the Bazaruto Marine National Park, a protected area that hosts the largest population of dugongs in East Africa. For children, the experience of spotting these gentle "sea cows" or watching dolphins play in the wake of a boat is unforgettable. The islands themselves—Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, and Santa Carolina—offer pristine beaches where the sand is soft and white, and the water is exceptionally clear.
Vilankulo acts as the bustling hub for the region and is a fantastic base for families who want accessibility without the price tag of a private island lodge. The town faces the archipelago and features calm, shallow waters that stretch out for miles at low tide, creating natural splash pools safe for toddlers. Older children and teenagers can try kitesurfing, as the wind conditions here are world-class, or go horse riding along the beach at sunset. A highlight for any visitor is a day trip on a traditional dhow boat. These wooden sailing vessels take you to the Two Mile Reef for snorkeling, where the coral gardens are shallow enough for beginners to navigate easily.
Accommodation in the region ranges from high-end luxury lodges on the islands to family-friendly self-catering villas and boutique hotels on the mainland. The pace of life here is slow and dictated by the tides. While the islands offer seclusion and exclusivity, Vilankulo provides a vibrant cultural connection, with a local market where you can buy fresh fruit and see local life in action. The stunning red dunes along the coast offer a dramatic backdrop for family photos, especially during the golden hour.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
A world-class alternative to the Maldives featuring ivory dunes and the Indian Ocean's most pristine coral reefs. Peak months offer the best balance of warm air and dry conditions, while the rainy summer (Dec-Mar) brings high humidity and poor water visibility.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Home to the Indian Ocean's last viable dugong population and seasonal humpback whales (Jul-Oct). The dry winter months provide optimal conditions for wildlife tracking and exploring the unique dune ecosystems, whereas the wet season poses cyclone risks and high heat.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Host to some of Africa's most exclusive eco-lodges offering high-end spa treatments and total seclusion. The dry, low-humidity winter months (May-Oct) are perfect for open-air wellness, while summer rains and humidity (Dec-Mar) detract from the peaceful atmosphere.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
A premier destination for kite surfing and deep-sea fishing with consistent trade winds in the winter months. Peak season offers the best visibility for diving and reliable winds, whereas the rainy season brings rougher seas and less predictable conditions.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Offers unique insights into marine conservation and traditional dhow sailing techniques for intellectually curious families. Optimal learning occurs during the dry season when marine research projects and community workshops are most accessible.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Vilankulo provides authentic insight into Mozambican dhow culture and fishing traditions, though it lacks the sophisticated urban infrastructure of major global cities. The dry season (Jun-Sep) is the only time the mainland hub is comfortably navigable for international families.
Attractions (21 total)
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Bazaruto Archipelago National Marine Park
Vilankulo
A world-class marine sanctuary protecting diverse ecosystems including coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and the rare dugong.
Visit website →Bazaruto Island Sand Dunes
Vilankulo
Massive, iconic golden sand dunes offering spectacular panoramic views over the Indian Ocean and archipelago channels.
Two Mile Reef
Vilankulo
A premier snorkeling and diving site located between Bazaruto and Benguerra islands, famous for its colorful coral gardens.
Vilankulo Beach
Vilankulo
The main coastal hub and gateway to the islands, featuring wide stretches of white sand and traditional wooden dhows.
Santa Carolina Island (Paradise Island)
Vilankulo
A small, picturesque island renowned for its excellent snorkeling, pristine beaches, and the atmospheric ruins of a colonial-era hotel.
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
Vilankulo
A vast marine sanctuary protecting dugongs, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs across a chain of stunning islands.
Visit website →The Big Dune
Bazaruto Island
A massive, iconic white sand dune that provides a spectacular vantage point over the Indian Ocean's shifting blue hues.
Magaruque Island
Vilankulo
An accessible island known for its quiet, pristine beaches and shallow reefs that are perfect for children to explore.
Santa Carolina Island
Vilankulo
Known as Paradise Island, this small volcanic isle features crystal clear waters and a sense of isolated, rugged beauty.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Bazaruto Island Great Dune Hike
Bazaruto Island
2.5km moderate out-and-back hike, 1 hour duration, 110m elevation gain. This iconic route ascends the highest sand dune in the archipelago, providing 360-degree views of the turquoise Bazaruto Archipelago National Park. The climb is physically demanding due to soft sand and steep inclines. Accessible via boat transfers from Vilankulo.
Visit website →Benguerra Island Lake Trail
Benguerra Island
5km easy walk, 1.5 hours duration, 20m elevation gain. A notable interior path that leads from the coastal lodges through savannah-like grasslands and palm groves to the island's freshwater lakes. These lakes are famous for being home to crocodiles and a variety of tropical bird species. Boat access from the mainland is required.
Visit website →Vilankulo Red Dunes Coastal Route
Vilankulo
18km moderate return route, 4-5 hours for hiking or 1.5 hours for cycling, 60m elevation gain. This trail follows the northern coastline from Vilankulo town to the striking crimson sand cliffs. The route is best traversed at low tide on fat bikes or on foot. Bike rental: Vilanculos Fat Bike Tours (vilanculosfatbiketours.com).
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Bazaruto Island Great Sand Dune
Bazaruto Island
The towering sand dunes offer breathtaking views of the turquoise Indian Ocean and are a perfect spot for families to enjoy sandboarding or panoramic photography.
Santa Carolina (Paradise Island) Ruins
Santa Carolina Island
The atmospheric ruins of a mid-20th-century hotel provide a fascinating historical backdrop for a day of family exploration and snorkeling on this tiny island.
Vilanculos Central Market
Vilankulo
A vibrant cultural hub where families can explore local crafts, fresh tropical produce, and experience the authentic daily life of the Mozambican coast.
Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Mozambique Horse Safari
Vilankulo
A world-renowned activity center offering guided beach rides and the unique experience of swimming with horses in the turquoise Indian Ocean.
Visit website →Odyssea Dive
Vilankulo
A major outdoor center specializing in scuba diving and snorkeling expeditions to the protected reefs of the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Visit website →Vilanculos Kitesurfing
Vilankulo
A premier outdoor activity center providing professional kiteboarding lessons and equipment rentals on the windy shores of the archipelago.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Vilankulo Central Market
Vilankulo
A vibrant traditional market offering families a colorful immersion into local Mozambican life, featuring stalls of fresh produce, spices, and authentic handmade goods.
Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Machilla Magic
Vilankulo
A vibrant community-run art gallery and workshop showcasing high-quality textiles, wood carvings, and local handicrafts created by over 50 regional artisans.
Visit website →Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary
Vilankulo
A significant conservation area on the San Sebastian Peninsula that combines terrestrial wildlife safaris with marine protection.
Visit website →