Mozambique beckons nature enthusiasts with its diverse landscapes and thriving wildlife. From pristine marine havens to sprawling savannas, encounter a breathtaking array of creatures on your adventure. Here’s a glimpse into some of the best wildlife destinations this captivating country has to offer.
Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
Dive into an underwater wonderland at Bazaruto Archipelago National Park which can be explored from Mozambique holiday resorts. This protected paradise boasts fertile ecosystems teeming with more than 2,000 fish species, as well as marine megafauna like whales, sharks, rays, dolphins, and turtles; this haven is also a crucial breeding ground for endangered dugongs. Stay at properties like Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort and enjoy the chance to see migrating humpback whales (August to October) and awe-inspiring whale sharks (April to July) during their seasonal visits.
Maputo National Park
Embark on a wildlife safari unlike any other at the Maputo National Park. This park boasts a stunning variety of landscapes from forest-fringed dunes and grasslands to mountain ranges and azure seas. Witness an ever-growing, diverse wildlife population, including rare and endangered species. Head out on a guided safari and spot magnificent herds of elephants or visit the Maundo and Xinguti lakes where you may see crocodiles, hippos, and an array of Nile birds. Keep your camera ready to also capture sightings of giraffes, leopards, zebras, playful monkeys, warthogs, impalas, and much more.
Charles J. Sharp creator QS:P170,Q54800218, Plains zebras (Equus quagga) Maputo, CC BY-SA 4.0
Gorongosa National Park
Venture into the heart of Mozambique at the Gorongosa National Park, nestled within the Great African Rift Valley. Explore a diverse range of ecosystems, including sprawling grasslands, savannas, dry forests, and refreshing water pans. Choose from traditional jeep drives or opt for a unique boat or canoe safari for a different perspective. You have the chance to witness a pride of lions, observe families of elephants, and spot playful warthogs, waterbucks, graceful antelopes, and more. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting colourful species like the narina trogon, green-headed orioles, and the green malkoha.
Quirimbas National Park
Uncover a hidden gem on Mozambique’s northeast coast – Quirimbas National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve boasts a fascinating mix of ecosystems, protecting a wealth of endangered species both on land and underwater. While the park’s interior offers important migration routes for elephants, the main draw is the marine species in the archipelago. These waters provide vital nursery grounds for bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales, alongside essential habitats for sea turtles and migratory birds. The park’s vibrant coral reefs, teeming with tropical fish, combined with the crucial seagrass beds that nourish the elusive dugong, make Quirimbas a paradise for underwater exploration.