Discover Why Mozambique's Beaches Are So Cherished Through These Photos

From a bird's-eye view, the landscape resembled an extraordinary watercolor painting—an abstract masterpiece stretching endlessly. As we hovered above, the scene transformed: white sandy contours, sapphire pools, and deep green brushstrokes came together. We glided along the ocean’s edge until the shapes became clear, revealing the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, located eight miles off southern Mozambique’s coast.

Among these islands is Benguerra, where we would be staying at the Kisawa Sanctuary resort for the next few days. After a 90-minute flight from Johannesburg to the coastal town of Vilanculos, we took a 15-minute helicopter journey to reach the island. Kisawa features 11 private residences, each sustainably constructed with 3D printing techniques, set on an acre of beachfront property, complete with a private pool and an electric Moke (jeep) for exploring the island.

Our guide, Querino, known as Q, was raised on the island and has balanced his life between the local community, tourism, and marine conservation. "The first time I took tourists from Vilanculos out on a dhow (a traditional wooden sailboat), their reaction was simply ‘Wow.’ That’s when I realized what an incredible place I come from,” he shared.

Now serving as Kisawa’s head guide, Q spends his days snorkeling, boating, and narrating stories to guests about the unique marine ecosystem here. "I love inviting people to dive. The experience is one of the best days of my life; the underwater world is unbelievable. It’s magical to witness the coral reefs and observe the fish in their natural behavior. I strive to keep guests enthusiastic and encourage collaboration to protect our home.” Kisawa collaborates with the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies, an ocean observatory where guests can engage in research activities like gathering marine data or tracking whale migration. Here’s a photographic journey showcasing the people and sights from my adventure around the Bazaruto Archipelago.

On the left, a woman dressed in a vibrant, patterned gown beams while standing on the shores of Benguerra Island. On the right, the wellness center at the Kisawa resort glows softly at dusk.

Left: Amelia, a member of the housekeeping team from Benguerra Island. Right: After a day filled with photography and carrying cameras, the wellness center was the ideal spot for some relaxation, offering a variety of therapies, massages, and yoga sessions for guests.

Left: A beachfront room at Kisawa. Right: A serene sandy beach.

Each residence for guests features a private pool and an outdoor kitchen, topped with thatched roofs designed to mimic the gentle curves of the region's sand dunes.

A collection of images depicting locals engaged in net fishing in Mozambique.

Our guide, Q (bottom, center), introduced us to local fishermen engaged in net fishing. Usually, families collaborate; one brother steers the boat, another operates the engine, while the women handle the net. Each person has a specific role, and at the end of the day, the catch is shared. In recent years, fishing regulations have been established, so locals are aware of where they can fish, while other areas are restricted to protect the coral reefs and marine wildlife.

A man wearing a white long-sleeve shirt extends his right arm while standing on the beach.

Joao, a member of Kisawa’s beach and marine activities team from Benguerra Island, shared, “I began swimming at the age of eight. The beach is where I thrive; it’s in my blood. After school, I would always head to the beach. On this island, it’s the best place to be.” Nowadays, Joao offers guests kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and lounge chairs for relaxation.

Left: A bird's-eye view of one of the islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Right: A night shot of a fern.

The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of five primary islands and is included in the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, which has been protected since 1971. Among the marine mammals that you might encounter are dugongs, whales, and dolphins.

Left: The silhouette of a man standing on a sand dune. Right: An infinity pool with a breathtaking view of the ocean in Mozambique.

Q guided us by boat to Bazaruto Island for a hike up the dunes. As we climbed a smooth sand hill, we experienced the unique feeling of both ascending and gliding simultaneously. The clouds above cast pools of light and shadow across the valleys. Sinking into the soft, deep sand, we reached a rounded hilltop with stunning views of the vibrant blue ocean in the distance.

From left to right: A plate featuring cooked fish, octopus, and lemon wedges; the Kisawa resort; and a man wearing traditional headgear from Mozambique.

Fernando, hailing from Bazaruto Island, is a chef on Kisawa’s kitchen team, working at the main terrace, one of the four dining options available to guests. “I take pride in this place. I encounter many challenges in life but embrace them, pouring my heart into my work,” he shared.

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