This string of spectacular subtropical islands is rated as one of the most beautiful places in Africa. Famous for pristine beaches that stretch on for almost 3 000km, the islands also offer fantastic diving. The waters around the Bazaruto Archipelago have been declared a marine conservation area.

Totalling some 1400km², it is one of the largest in the Indian Ocean. There are four main islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque and Santa Carolina with a host of smaller islands lying off the coast of each. These islands are situated in the Mozambique Channel, just off the coast of Inhambane in Southern Mozambique. The turquoise water is warm and translucent and therefore provides excellent visibility. There are thousands of subtropcial fishes, numerous coral reefs, anemones, seahorses and a dazzling variety of marine creatures.

One of the main attractions is the Dugong or sea cow, which is highly endangered and of which only a very small number still exist. Divers in Bazaruto may see hundreds of species of coral at Two Mile Reef, or may sail to Magaruque for the rock reef diving.