Honeymoon Guide | Mozambique and Bazaruto

Mozambique and Bazaruto, the jewel of Africa

Location
Is what it’s all about

Mozambique is located on the southeastern coast of Africa above South Africa. The Bazaruto archipelago consists of five tropical islands just off the coast of Mozambique.

Why choose Mozambique and/or Bazaruto as your honeymoon destination?
Pristine coastline, coral reefs and shipwrecks, it’s perfect

Mozambique boasts 2500 kilometers of pristine coastline on the warm Indian Ocean. Newlyweds can explore coral reefs and shipwrecks, home to diverse marine life suitable for diving and fishing. Portuguese cuisine is common and fresh seafood is abundant. Mozambique has an interesting and artistic culture, renowned for its artists and music.

Bazaruto is a protected national park and the islands are undeveloped making for the ultimate romantic escape and the chance to view dolphins, whales, crocodiles and turtles.

When to go
To be, or not to be in doors.

Mozambique has a tropical climate defined by a wet season from October-March, during which cyclones are common especially in February and March. The dry season is from April to September. Temperatures reach the mid-30’s in February and drop to 13°C in July. The best months to visit Mozambique and Bazaruto are between May-November when rainfall is lowest and temperatures have not peaked.

Currency
What your metical is worth

Metical.1 metical = 100 centavos.

Language
What your Rupee is worth

The most common languages are Portuguese and English as well as various African languages.

Safety
Keep it real

Mozambique has a moderate crime level and while locals are hospitable and friendly, care should be taken when traveling to Mozambique. Do not carry valuables on you, travel in groups and avoid deserted areas. Landmines may be found in the central parts of the country and it is therefore advisable to stick to popular tourist areas.

Popular Resorts
You’ll be spoilt for choice

• Benguerra Lodge (Benguerra Island)
• Dugong Beach Lodge (Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary)
• Flamingo Bay (Inhambane)
• Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa (Bazaruto Island)
• Quilalea Private Island (Quirimbas Archipelago National Park)

What to see and do
Depending on how busy you want to be

Mozambique offers honeymooners the opportunity to dive some of the most spectacular reefs in the world, bathe in the warm Indian Ocean and bronze yourselves on deserted beaches. The Bazaruto archipelago is a particularly good diving site and is home to dolphins, marine turtles, lobster and the rare dugong. Some hotels can organise a romantic private honeymoon dinner on the beach.

Flying time from SA
A hop, skip and a jump away

Maputo is a 5 hour drive from Johannesburg or a one hour flight.

Vaccinations or Medication necessary?
Hakunamatata- which means no worries, but take precautions

Yellow fever vaccinations are required for travelers who have passed through an endemic zone. Precautions should be taken against malaria. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid and polio are recommended. Avoid drinking the tap water as cholera outbreaks are common.