Sunset view from Casa Rex boutique hotel, Vilanculos, Mozambique

Discover the gems of Mozambique’s
exotic coastal destinations

As one of Mozambique’s exotic coastal destinations, Vilankulo has much more to offer than meets the eye, & is best described as an undiscovered gem – therein lies it’s beauty. Despite the development that has taken place in this coastal town over the last 10 years, it has maintained it’s charm, traditions, mixed cultures & overall natural beauty.

Add to this the fact that Vilankulo is a dhow trip away from the magnificent Bazaruto Archipelago islands with their untouched, white powder beaches, clear turquoise water, coral reefs & marine life to tempt the most experienced diver or snorkeler.

The archipelago, Mozambique’s only underwater National park comprises of 5 islands – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Margaruque, Bangue & Santa Carolina (commonly known as Paradise Island) & hosts the last viable population of dugongs on the east African coast. Dolphins & whales are often seen. There are 4 species of turtles & 2000 fish species, with 80% of Indo-Pacific species occurring here. The coral reefs attract a rich diversity of tropical fish and other marine creatures, and are regarded as some of the most diverse and least disturbed in the Western Indian Ocean. Over 180 bird species, including the crab plover and olive bee-eater that tunnels its nest into the sand dunes are found here. Large flocks of migrant waders visit the fertile mud flats from September to April. The nomadic greater Flamingo arrive from their mainland breeding sites around mid October.

Scuba diving, Sol Resorts, Vilanculos
Whale watching, Casa Rex, Vilanculos, Mozambique

Whale watching is popular between July and October & a trip out to sea usually ensures a sighting of these magnificent creatures.

Some of the most amazing deep sea fishing opportunities in the area are available along this coastline too & it is a firm favorite with experienced anglers. The flow of the currents heralds in a huge array of fish – some of those available are mackerel, marlin, dorado, tuna & red snapper to name a few.

One can feel the pulse of Vilankulo in the captivating mixture of cultures, languages, music & traditions. The local market contributes to the flamboyant ambience, and here one can find anything from colorful sarongs to fresh produce!

Restaurants, sports bars & beach bars serving the much-loved local Mozambican beer have popped up quickly in the town, and there are a couple of popular nightclubs which stay open until the early hours for the intrepid traveler!

Lively & bustling town of Vilanculos, Mozambique

Quick Facts about Vilankulo

With the exception of the following countries in the region:
Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland Malawi & Tanzania, all countries require a visa to enter Mozambique. It is essential to get your visa well before your intended stay at your local Embassy.
Vilankulo has a tropical climate – some helpful information to help you plan:
• April to September – dry season, with coastal temperatures reaching 28°C
• October to March – hot & rainy, with highs reaching 32°C on the coast. January, February, March & December usually see the most rainfall.
• Warmest month: January
• Coolest & driest month: August
Local Mozambican currency is the Metical/ Meticais. US Dollars and South African Rands are accepted in all hotels & most restaurants.

Approximate exchange rates are:
• 35:1 MTS:US$
• 3:1 MTS:ZAR
• 40:1 MTS:EURO

It is always recommended that malaria prophylactics are taken as a precaution & insect repellant & sun block carried at all times. There is a small pharmacy in the town, but it is highly recommended that you carry all prescription & more specific medication with you.
At the moment there are no vaccinations required on entry to Mozambique.
Within Mozambique:
There are regular flights from Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, Inhambane & Pemba on LAM, the national carrier.

From Johannesburg:

LAM airlines fly daily from Johannesburg International airport (OR Tambo) to Vilankulo International Airport. Direct flying time is 2 hours. SA Airlink is now flying from Johannesburg to Vilanculos daily.

SA Airlink schedule:

Johannesburg – Vilanculos  DAILY FLIGHTS
Departing Johannesburg 11.30, Arriving Vilanculos 13.10
Vilanculos- Johannesburg DAILY FLIGHTS
Departing Vilanculos 13.45, Arriving Johannesburg 15.30

From The Kruger:

These flights facilitate the popular “beach & bush” combination.
Starting initially with 2 flights per week (Thursday and Sunday) the Kruger- Vilanculos flights serve to further enhance Airlink’s current flights operating between Johannesburg and Vilanculos, with daily direct departures between Vilanculos and Johannesburg.

The Kruger to Vilanculos flights will depart Nelspruit at 11h35 and will arrive in Vilanculos at 12h50 and depart from Vilanculos at 13h45 and arrive in Johannesburg at 15h30, flights will operate on one of Airlink’s 12 Embraer ERJ135 regional jets.

Tour Operators and African Safari specialists have welcomed the introduction of this route, which enables them to promote bush and beach combination packages giving travelers the freedom to enjoy an early morning game drive and then later that same day to enjoy a sundowner on the beach.”

Car rentals can be pre-arranged from South Africa, or options are available from Vilankulo Airport where rental company representatives are present.

Driving directions available on request.

The town has reliable phone, & mobile phone networks & fast internet access. You will find that most of the bigger hotels & lodges have wifi (either free or charged separately). There is also an internet café in the town centre.
Vilankulo has a well stocked grocery store, wholesaler & butchery so one is able to get any provision you can think off – manufactured either locally or in South Africa. Fruit & vegetables & fresh produce can also be bought at the market or roadside stalls, with fresh pineapples & cashews being fmost popular. Buying fresh fish from the fishermen on the beach is a firm favorite.

Otherwise, the growth of the town has heralded new restaurants, beach bars, a sports bar & more casual eateries – bakeries & pizza places.

The colorful local market stocks just about everything from food & drinks to sarongs, (traditionally called capulanas), beach wear, dresses…you name it!