Experience the Magic of Whale Watching

Prepare to witness the majestic sight of southern right and humpback whales as they journey through Mozambique’s pristine waters. This coastline offers front-row seats for one of nature’s greatest spectacles, making it a bucket-list destination for every whale enthusiast.

Whale Watching Season: When to Visit Mozambique

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: Southern right whales make their appearances from June to December in the southern part of the Mozambique Channel. 

Humpback Whales: 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: Whale sharks have also been spotted around these waters from April to July. 

All Year Round: 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.

Best Time to Go Whale Watching

For the most unforgettable experience, the best time to go whale watching in Mozambique is between June and October, when both southern right and humpback whales are present in significant numbers. If you wish to diversify your marine encounters, consider visiting in July, when there is an overlap of all three species: whales, dolphins, and whale sharks.

Top Whale Watching Experiences

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, located within the Bazaruto Archipelago, is a renowned base for immersive whale watching adventures. 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:

Three distinct whale watching options:

Morning boat charter: A three-hour guided excursion for close encounters with whales.

Half-day marine tour: Combines whale watching with snorkeling among coral reefs and other marine life, ending with a beach picnic.

Scenic helicopter ride: A 30-minute aerial tour for an unmatched perspective of migrating humpback whales in 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.

Tips for Whale Watching in Mozambique

Book Early: Dolphin, turtle, and whale watching excursions are popular during the peak season—reserve in advance to secure your spot.

Bring Binoculars: Enhance your experience by viewing whale breaching, tail slaps, and playful behavior up close.

Wear Sun Protection: Safeguard yourself with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense out on the water.

Choose the Right Tour: Evaluate whether a boat or helicopter tour suits your preference for proximity or panoramic views.

Be Patient: Whale sightings are frequent in season but always unpredictable—enjoy the marine scenery while you wait.

For more information or to make an inquiry, visit Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort’s website or email [email protected].