Mozambique — the untouched Indian Ocean Africa kept for itself

The dry season, from April to November, is generally the best time to visit. Within this period, June to October offers some of the strongest conditions for diving, with excellent visibility, good chances of seeing dugongs around Bazaruto and very rewarding safari conditions in Gorongosa.
Humpback whales migrate along the Mozambican coast between roughly June and November, with particularly good sightings in July and August. May is an excellent shoulder-season option, with fewer visitors, pleasant weather and more attractive rates.
December to March is the wetter, more humid period and also carries a higher risk of cyclones, which can affect flights, resort operations and marine visibility.

For a single destination such as Bazaruto or the Quirimbas, we recommend around 7 nights.
If you would like to combine two regions — for example, Bazaruto and the Quirimbas, or the Quirimbas with Gorongosa — allow around 10–12 nights.
When adding Mozambique to a safari in South Africa, Zimbabwe or Tanzania, 4–5 nights in Bazaruto or the Quirimbas can work beautifully as a beach extension.

The dugong is a rare marine mammal related to the manatee and is entirely herbivorous, feeding on seagrass in shallow coastal waters.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is one of the most important remaining strongholds for dugongs in the western Indian Ocean. They are occasionally seen in the shallow waters and seagrass beds around the islands, often during marine excursions organised by local lodges.
As with any wildlife encounter, sightings cannot be guaranteed, but Bazaruto is one of the best places in the region to have the chance of seeing them.

They offer two very different experiences.
Bazaruto, in southern Mozambique, is known for larger sand islands, shallow turquoise waters, dugong habitat and easier access via Vilanculos, with convenient connections from Johannesburg.
The Quirimbas, in the north, feel far more remote. These smaller coral islands combine Swahili, Arab and Portuguese heritage with deep-water reefs and an extraordinary sense of seclusion. Historic Ibo Island adds a cultural dimension, while intimate island lodges make the experience feel exceptionally private.
If time allows, combining both creates a remarkable contrast within one journey.

Entry requirements depend on your nationality, and Mozambique’s visa policies can change.
Many travellers can use an electronic visa or other simplified entry process, while others may still require a visa in advance. As part of your journey planning, Siente África will confirm the latest requirements for your passport and advise you on the most appropriate process.
I’d use this more general version for the English website rather than quoting a specific fee or saying that most Latin American travellers require a visa, because that information can change and the English site is aimed at an international audience.

Most island lodges are reached by a combination of scheduled flights and light-aircraft or charter transfers.
For Bazaruto, Vilanculos is the main gateway, with direct regional connections including flights from Johannesburg. From there, onward transfers are arranged to the islands.
More remote properties in the Quirimbas usually require additional domestic or charter flights. The lodges generally coordinate the final transfer logistics, making even very remote locations surprisingly seamless to reach.

Absolutely. It is one of the most natural safari-and-beach combinations in the region.
Johannesburg works particularly well as a gateway, allowing you to combine a safari in South Africa — such as Kruger or Sabi Sand — or Zimbabwe with a few days on the Mozambican coast.
A classic itinerary might include 5–7 nights on safari followed by 4–6 nights in Bazaruto or the Quirimbas, creating a beautiful contrast between the savannah and the Indian Ocean.