Bazaruto Archipelago National Park

This archipelago consists of five main islands: Bazaruto, Benguera, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and tiny Bangué. It's about as close to a tropical paradise as you'll find, and is one of Mozambique's highlights. Among its attractions: clear, turquoise waters; tranquil, white-sand beaches; a plethora of colourful birds; and rewarding diving and snorkelling.

The larger islands were originally connected to the mainland at Ponta São Sebastião. The small population of Nile crocodiles that laze in the sun in remote corners of both Bazaruto and Benguera islands is evidence of this earlier link.

Thanks to this protected status, and to the archipelago's relative isolation from the ravages of war on the mainland, nature bursts forth here in full force. Most impressive, perhaps, are the elusive dugong who spend their days foraging among sea-grass meadows around the archipelago. As a backdrop to all this are extensive and excellently preserved coral formations.

Living amidst all the natural beauty are about 3500 Mozambicans who call the archipelago home.