Located on the shores of the Indian Ocean about 750 km north of the capital of Mozambique, Maputo. This small coastal town in the tropical Inhambane province lies directly opposite the exquisite islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Formerly a favourite destination of the rich and many movie stars, Vilanculos lost its appeal from 1975 through 1993 during the civil war fought in Mozambique.
Getting to Vilanculos
The airport is open to medium size aircrafts and ground transportation. There are daily
flights to Vilanculos from Johannesburg and Maputo. It’s possible to charter a small aircraft that can fly direct from Johannesburg.
By road from Komatipoort border to Vilanculos is tarred and there is no need for a 4x4. Look out for potholes and road works. Follow the road to Maputo. Just before Maputo you turn left onto EN1 to the north. Vilanculos is over 700km from Maputo.
Vilanculos offers hotel accommodations and restaurants in a third world style. Electricity and water are available during only certain times of the day. The night life is alive and well offering music and drink through out the night at one of the local discotheques. To medium size aircraft, and ground transportation is available. Vilanculos is situated on the coast
Weather in Vilanculos
The climate is subtropical with two main seasons one wet and one dry. The wet season runs from November to March. The dry season runs from April t o October
Accommodation in Vilanculos
Vilanculos Beach Lodge is an intimate and exclusive Mozambique lodge situated on mainland Mozambique, 5km from Vilanculos Village. Surrounded by golden beaches, African villages and archipelago islands.
Guests of
Vilanculos Beach Lodge can enjoy the exotic surroundings of Mozambique. The surrounding marine life ensures the deep sea fishing, and other water activities. The lodge offers bed and breakfast facilities.
Pescador overlooks the bay and the Islands of The Bazaruto Archipelago. This newly opened Pescador Hotel offers exclusive accommodation and fine dining in the vibrant coastal town of Vilanculos. Catering perfectly to the guests is set in secure, private gardens on the seafront providing easy access to local amenities including banks and shops. Situated only a couple of kilometres from both the International Airport and the harbour make transfers to the Islands simple.
Dugong Beach Lodge, perched right on the edge of the beach is 10 luxury tents built on raised decks in the shade of Msasa Trees and Jecka grass canopies. The lounge and restaurant at this lodge in Mozambique are raised on Mahogany timber decks.
Things to do and see
The Vilanculos Wildlife Sanctuary covers 30 000 hectares of pristine marine and wildlife territory, a unique 'Beach and Bush' experience in a hidden corner of sub-tropical Africa. This diverse eco-system of bush and wetland, with its powder white beaches and crystal clear water is host to a magnificent array of fish, Dolphin and very importantly, the nearly extinct Dugong.
Shallow and deepwater reefs reveal beautiful creatures such as the green and leatherback turtles, sailfish, manta ray, to name a few. Big deep-sea game fishing of marlin and barracuda is truly spectacular and the large flocks of Flamingos and pelicans.
Vilanculos lives up to its name as a fabulous seaside town. Tourists who enjoy water adventures will love the sea-kayaking, wind-surfing, snorkelling and fishing activities. There is a Dive Centre which caters to all types of tourists’ underwater needs, from the beginner to a visiting professional. You could even can relax on Vilanculos’ world famous beaches and soak up the hot African sun, or take a traditional dhow boat ride to the Archipelago where you can spot whale sharks in the idyllic waters.
