Diving vacation to Mozambique: Stay at a research center while exploring the Bazaruto Archipelago. Chance of humpback whales, whale sharks, manta rays, dugongs and more.
Ready for a diving vacation that includes sustainability, eco and research? Then the Bazaruto Archipelago awaits you, where you will stay at the unique Bazaruto Center of Scientific Studies (BCSS).
The BCSS has opened its doors to recreational divers. During your stay, you will be involved in the research being done. The dives you will make are of a recreational nature, including at the dive sites where research is being conducted, and where possible you may assist the researchers with their ongoing projects.
Diving in Bazaruto – Mozambique
In Bazaruto, you enter a world of diversity underwater. Shallow, vibrant reefs and deeper mystery sites make every dive a new discovery. The “Big Five” of the ocean await you: whales, manta rays, sharks, dolphins AND turtles, With dugongs as a bonus among more than 2,000 species of fish.
Your Eco-stay at BCSS
During this diving vacation you will stay at BCSS on the island of Benguerra. The research center is fully sustainable, with solar power and local materials. The center is small in size, accommodating only 10 guests in single and double rooms. You will share facilities with other diving and nature study enthusiasts.
Best travel time for a diving vacation to
The best time to dive up in Mozambique depends on what you want to see. Click on the map below to see when your favorite underwater animals can be spotted in the Bazaruto Archipelago.
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Wetsuit advice for the Bazaruto Archipelago
From December through April, a 3mm usually suffices, the other months we recommend a 5mm. Also, be sure to consider a hood or vest.
What will you experience on this diving vacation?
View itinerary here
Day 1 & 2 | The journey to Benguerra - Bazaruto Archipelago
Travel to Mozambique usually begins with an international flight to Johannesburg or Vilanculos. To reach Benguerra, you then fly on to Vilanculos. Often the connection of the international flight is not very ideal with the flight to Vilanculos. For that reason, you often stay 1 night in Johannesburg.
Once you’ve landed in Vilanculos, the final leg of your journey awaits you: a short, scenic boat ride that takes you straight to the idyllic island of Benguerra, home of the Bazaruto Center of Scientific Studies.
Day 3 to 9 | Diving, research and enjoyment
The next 7 days are devoted entirely to the rich underwater world of the Bazaruto Archipelago. With more than 2,000 species of fish and the second most diverse coral reef in the world, every moment underwater is different and diverse.
Your days will be filled with exploring the vibrant reefs that are home to an assortment of marine life. From humpback whales and graceful manta rays to playful dolphins and more than 10 shark species, including impressive hammerheads and the elegant blacktip reef sharks. Every dive you have another chance to see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat, assuming you dive in the right season.
It is not only the larger marine life that draws attention. The reefs around Benguerra Island are a paradise for lovers of macro life. You will find colorful nudibranchs, artistically camouflaged decorator crabs, leaf fishes and seahorses whose delicate shapes open up a whole new world for those with an eye for detail.
The topography of the dive sites is equally diverse. From shallow, colorful reefs to deep, rolling walls with overhangs and passages. The nutrient-rich currents bring with them a constant supply of nutrients, contributing to the rich marine life you can witness on each visit. The diversity of the landscape provides rich macro life and regular encounters with sharks, rays and pelagic fish.
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Day 10 | Africa overwater
Today you’ll leave the scuba gear for a while, but Benguerra Island still offers plenty of excursions you won’t want to miss. Relax on the pristine beaches, where you can lounge under the sun and walk along the shoreline surrounded by peace and tranquility. Discover the natural beauty of Benguerra with guided island tours, where you will not only explore the landscapes, but also learn about the local culture and traditions. For lovers of water activities, there is plenty to do, from kayaking and paddle-boarding to sailing. Experience the island from a unique perspective on horseback, along scenic beaches and through the interior. Relax with spa treatments that use local techniques for an invigorating experience. Bird watchers will enjoy the rich bird population, including the majestic African ospreys. Cultural encounters offer a deeper insight into island life. End the day with a sunset cruise or stargazing, enjoying the breathtaking skies and starry beauty, perfect for photography and deep contemplation.
Day 11 to 12 | The trip back home or extension of the diving vacation
Your adventurous stay on beautiful Benguerra Island has come to an end. As you travel by boat back to Vilanculos Airport, reflect on the unforgettable moments you experienced. But the adventure need not end here. Whether you fly back home or decide to extend your trip with additional days of diving in Tofo, an exhilarating safari in South Africa, or even more diving adventures along the South African coast, at EWDR we are happy to customize your trip. As customization specialists, we are ready to make your dreams come true and your trip unforgettable. The choice is yours!
The accommodation
The stay and surroundings
Bazaruto Center of Scientific Studies
At the BCSS at Benguerra, you stay completely sustainable! The accommodations, powered by solar energy and built from local materials, accommodate an exclusive group of up to 10 guests. There are single or double rooms with bunk beds and you stay on a full board basis.
You share common bathroom facilities with a nearby tent camp (where researchers, among others, often sleep) and enjoy the peace and quiet. The staff camp is located 30 meters from the main accommodation and features two large tents.
The Bazaruto archipelago consists of five idyllic islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue, and is home to a population of about 3,000 people living in traditional fishing villages. The islands consist of wide and long white sand beaches, lakes, wetlands, mangrove forests and large, 90-meter-high sand dunes dominate the landscape.
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The research center
Learn more about the study
Since its opening in 2017, the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies (BCSS) has strived to create opportunities for both local communities and international visitors through research, new initiatives and scientific projects. With deep roots in the community and environment, BCSS works to protect emblematic animals such as whale sharks, manatees, black marlins and turtles in the Bazaruto Archipelago. The center aims to understand, protect and ensure marine science in East African marine ecosystems for the benefit of current and future generations. BCSS serves as an international example in management and research programs, sharing results widely to give researchers access to crucial information. In addition to supporting research, the dive center also offers dive training and courses. Research topics range from ecosystem monitoring and species identification to the dynamics of migratory fish populations and marine debris monitoring, all with the goal of making a valuable contribution to Mozambique and the world.
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Travel costs
What is included
This dive vacation to Mozambique is available from €2790 per person based on two people in one room. The diving trip can be expanded as desired. A number of things are included by default in this travel package.
Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.
Want to know more about this diving vacation to Mozambique? Get in touch with us!
Yes, there is a 5-star PADI diving school offers the following courses and certifications under the careful guidance and supervision of our qualified and experienced instructors:
Discover Scuba Diving Course Diving refresher course Open Water Course Advanced Open Water Course Emergency First Responder Rescue Diver Course Divemaster Course
The following diving equipment is available and included in the diving rates: mask, fins, wetsuits, BCDs, tanks. However, we recommend that you bring your own wetsuit, fins, mask and any additional equipment for your comfort.
During your free time, you can use an outdoor gym, walk around the villages, climb sand dunes, swim, read, watch TV. Additional activities such as horseback riding and sunset cruises can be arranged through outside service providers at an additional cost.
Bazaruto waters are also home to a variety of megafauna that you can see from the boat and/or while snorkeling, including native and migrating sharks and rays, several species of whales and dolphins, spectacular humpback whales migrate from July to October.
The waters of Bazaruto are home to a variety of megafauna that you can see from the boat and/or while snorkeling, including native and migrating sharks and rays, several species of whales and dolphins, spectacular humpback whales migrate from July to October.
During your free time you can use our outdoor gym, walk around the villages, climb sand dunes, swim, read, watch TV. Additional activities such as horseback riding and sunset cruises can be arranged through outside service providers at an additional cost.
There is no air conditioning in the rooms. There are fans, though. However, given the subtropical climate in this part of Mozambique, air conditioners are rarely needed. The country broadly follows a South African weather pattern. Dry season (May to October): Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It is generally dry with low humidity and cooler temperatures. Wet season (November to April): Average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C.
There is no no a la carte restaurant but the chefs cook fresh and hot meals every day. A lunch/dinner at sister resort Kisawa (luxury resort) can be arranged/offered at a very special price.
