It’s peak whale-watching season in Mozambique between June and December as pods of whales embark on their annual migration from Antarctica to Africa. Considered to be one of the world’s longest migrations, the whales move to colder waters in high latitudes for feeding and then later to warmer currents for mating and birth season. Part of these magnificent creatures’ journey includes passing by the waters of Mozambique, making it a prime whale-watching spot.
Southern right whales make their appearances from June to December in the southern part of the Mozambique Channel. Meanwhile, the humpback whales flaunt their water acrobatic skills between July and October. Lucky spectators might even be able to catch these whales propel their upper bodies to as high as ten metres above the surface. Whale sharks have also been spotted around these waters from April to July. All year round, however, travellers can spot and swim with dolphins and sea turtles, or explore the Indian Ocean’s underwater world teeming with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and, on rare occasions, the elusive dugongs.
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, located within the Bazaruto Archipelago, happens to offer engaging experiences to encounter this rich marine ecosystem. Bazaruto Island itself is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and marine adventurers, offering breathtaking ocean views along the 2,500km coastline of Mozambique. The southern right whales, in particular, swim relatively close to the resort, while the humpback whales can be found coasting out in the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Guests staying at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort and interested in the whale-watching experience are given three options. The first is via boat charter in the morning for a three-hour excursion. The second is a half-day tour of searching for the whales and snorkelling amongst coral reefs and other marine life at Two Mile Reef. The tour ends with a picnic lunch of barbecue delights and salad on the beach of Pansy Island or Paradise Island – in the company of a personal waiter and chef.
Last but not least, there is also the option of taking a scenic 30-minute helicopter ride for an aerial view of the gentle humpback whales making their way through the Indian Ocean. Whichever guests pick, they’ll be well taken care of by Anantara’s expert guides and their wealth of knowledge on the local marine life and the Mozambique ocean waters.
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort’s All-Inclusive Stay Longer package includes accommodation in a beach villa, three meals a day, a dhow sunset cruise, and non-motorised water sports activities – all for US$522 per room per night. The whale-watching experience can be added on for US$165 per person for the three-hour ocean safari excursion, US$209 per person for the half-day ocean safari tour, and US$780 for the helicopter flight excursion.
For more information or to make an inquiry, visit Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort’s website or email [email protected].